LUNAFEST, the fundraising film festival dedicated to championing women film makers and bringing women together in their communities, will be hosted by YWCA Minot at The Spot in Minot on Aug. 21.

The YWCA is the only women and children’s homeless shelter in the Minot region. The YWCA’s missions are eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. It meets its mission locally by providing effective programs such as an emergency shelter, Dakota Diaper Pantry, Community Closet and the Fresh Start Shower Program.

Making its first appearance in Minot, LUNAFEST is a unique film festival that highlights women as leaders in society, illustrated through seven short films by women film makers. The films range from animation to fictional drama and cover topics such as women’s health, body image, relationships, cultural diversity and breaking barriers.

The event begins at 5 p.m. with a food truck festival. A cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. and films will be shown starting at 7 p.m. Attendees must be 21 or older. Tickets are $30 and are available at the door or online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ywca-lunafest-tickets-111834381646. All proceeds from LUNAFEST will benefit YWCA Minot.

Thus far, LUNAFEST, which is created and funded by LUNA nutrition bars, has raised more than $5 million for nonprofit organizations across the United States and Canada.