A benefit auction event tonight will aid two local charities and one in Jamaica.

The event, which is open to the public begins at 7 p.m. in the Brannon House, 111 Pilgrim Mill Road.

Called “Making a Difference,” the auction will feature gently used and new designer handbags.

There also will be several well-stocked, high-end baskets full of beauty products, as well as weekend getaways, dinners at Tam's Backstage restaurant in Cumming, free haircuts and colors and many other gift certificates.

Organized by Brian Tam of Tam's and Bernadette Leonard of Berni Inc. Hair, the event raises funds for Bald Ridge Lodge and Whispering Hope, both in Forsyth County.

It also aids mission organization ACE, or American Caribbean Experience, in the parish of St. Mary, Jamaica, which Leonard's daughter, Jacque, has visited twice.