With the second annual Malcolm Butler Football Camp nine days away, a special event will commence the night before.

As a token of his appreciation, Butler will host a sponsor’s mixer at Ameristar’s Bottleneck Blues Bar from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is private and is a way to thank his sponsors collectively.

There is, however, time for those interested in becoming a sponsor to participate. The asking amount is $350 and information can about found at the camp’s official website at malcolmbutlerfootballcamp.org; through Cynthia Bell by email at cebell_66@yahoo.com or VHSGators@gmail.com; or James Daniel at 601-630-5846.

The final deadline is July 11.

“We’ll be happy to forward a sponsor packet. If they feel comfortable and want to know more about the camp they can visit malcolmbutlerfootballcamp.org and click on sponsorships and there it is,” Bell said.

Butler was able to meet and take pictures with sponsors last year, but when approached with the idea of a mixer, he agreed.

Sponsors for this year’s camp include Chick-fil-A, Randy Naylor Foundation, Mutual Credit Union, Trustmark Bank, AJ Management and Technical Service, TD Tire and Accessory, Krogers, Walmart, County Market, Edible Arrangements, the Vicksburg Warren School District, just to name a few of the helpful hands in this year’s camp.

“We’ve solicited over 200 sponsors in and around Vicksburg, it’s amazing how the community is really pitching in,” Bell said.

While the sponsors will be the ones receiving the patriotic appreciation, the Vicksburg Gators’ football team has been the recipient of Butlers’ altruistic nature.

During the season, Butler would communicate with coach Marcus Rogers and provide words of encouragement to the Gators.

Butler has also been a big factor in getting the Gators to camps at Louisiana State University, New Orleans, La at the Saints’ training facility, as well as Stockbridge, Ga.

“He gives back throughout the entire year to theses students. For all the camps they’ve been going to this year, with the help of Malcolm it’s been possible,” Bell said. “The kids wouldn’t be able to travel to none of those camps without his support.”