The organizers of the annual Toys for Tots fundraiser have come up with a new plan this year.

Michelle Tait and Sheila Krein have launched the group's inaugural Family Fun Expo, which will be held Saturday at the Bismarck Civic Center Exhibit Hall. The family-friendly event will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Rides and games - including inflatable slides and bounce houses - will be set up, and local vendors will have all kinds of things for sale at discount prices. There also will be face painting and air-brush tattoos for kids. Admission is a dollar - or you can get in free if you bring a new toy to donate. All who are admitted are automatically entered in a drawing to win a Nintendo Wii.

Proceeds from the Family Fun Expo go to Toys for Tots, which buys toys for kids who can't afford them. Since it was founded in Bismarck five years ago, the local chapter has raised more than $16,000 to buy toys for thousands of children.

"This event is for the community, by the community," Tait said. "We wanted to provide an event for the whole family to come out, have a good time and not have to worry about cost. Plus, every dollar raised goes to buy toys for kids in the local community."