About us.

Why We Do What We Do

80’s Party for a Purpose is a 100% volunteer-run charity event founded in 2011 by Dean Johnson.

Our team is made up of lifelong friends who believe in giving back. Together, we’ve built a fun, vibrant, and meaningful tradition that raises money for Metro Detroit charities in need. Since our very first event, we’ve proudly raised over $250,000 for local causes.

Our Team

The 80’s Party crew includes:

  • Kelley Metter

  • Kristie Swailes

  • John O'Brien

  • Tammy Churches

  • Paul Pirrone

  • Cyndie Reiterman – Graphic Art Director

  • Kerry Johnson – Totally Tubular Consultant

Our Mission

80’s Party 4 a Purpose was created to support local charities through an annual 80s-themed celebration. Our goal is simple: bring the community together for an unforgettable night of fun while raising funds and awareness for organizations making a real impact.

2026 Charity Recipients

This year, proceeds will support:

  • Great Lakes Burn Camp for Burn-Injured Kids

  • Blue Star Mothers – Chapter 180

  • Turning Point of Mount Clemens

A man with short curly hair holding a microphone and a paper, standing on stage at an event. He is wearing a purple shirt with a logo, a medal around his neck, and a name tag that reads 'Dean Johnson STAFF'. The background features dark lighting with purple and red neon lights.
Illustration of three smiling children and a firefighter with a mustache, in front of a wooden sign that reads "Great Lakes Burn Camp for Burn Injured Children." The children are holding firefighting gear: a fireman's axe, a used fire hose, and a scoop.
White stylized logo on purple background, resembling a figure or abstract design.
Text-based logo with the words 'Blue Star Mothers Blue Water Chapter 180' on a red background, featuring blue wave graphics.
Group of smiling women and a man holding a large check at an outdoor event.
Group of people holding oversized checks on a stage or platform.
A group of eight people, dressed in matching orange shirts, standing together indoors and holding a large check.
Group of smiling people holding a large check for $6,000 at an outdoor event.
Group of people holding a large check, standing outdoors.
Two men standing outside on grass, one holding a large check and the other holding a plaque, smiling. There are trees and a house with an American flag in the background.
Group of people at a celebration event, holding a large check for $5,000, with an astronaut. The group is smiling and standing outdoors.