By Jessi LaRue
For Chronicle Media

Princes, princesses and even their mommies and daddies traveled from all over DeKalb County earlier this month to attend a ball in a castle.

For some, it was a good reason to dance, see a magician or try some sweets and treats. For others, it was a chance to dress up.

“I liked getting my makeup done,” said Mia Siddall, 8, of DeKalb, who was wearing some blush and powder on her face, thanks to the free services provided by the Stephen Alan Salon of Sycamore throughout the evening. “I’ve only ever tried lipgloss before!”

Mia attended the sixth annual Royal Children’s Ball earlier this month with her mother, Carla Siddall. The event was held in Northern Illinois University’s “castle,” Altgeld Hall, and the event benefitted the DeKalb County Youth Service Bureau.

The organization has offered a variety of services, including counseling, youth programs and homeless youth support, to DeKalb County since 1971. The ball is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, bringing in almost $20,000 annually through admissions, donations and raffle ticket sales.

Jackie Schmack, DeKalb County Youth Service Bureau board chair, said the event is a success because it’s family oriented and brings in people from all over the county. A good turnout just means the organization can help more people, Schmack said.

The organization assists DeKalb County families with a variety of problems including anxiety, depression, parenting, self-esteem, sexual abuse, grief, violence, truancy, homelessness and crisis situations.

Through counseling services, youth programs and more, the organization helps as many local families as possible, Schmack said.

DCYSB executive director Diana Hulst said 80 percent of those who utilize the organization’s services pay $20 or less. She said that’s possible because of the children’s ball and other smaller fundraisers throughout the year. She said the event is a good way for the community to give back, and for kids to simply be kids.

“It’s amazing how much fun the kids have,” Hulst said.

For siblings Elise 7, and James Dewitte, 3, of Elburn, who dressed up as Frozen’s Anna and Olaf, respectively, the evening was all about ice cream and candy.

“I like all of the stuff!” said James.

For more information about the DeKalb County Youth Services Bureau call (815) 748-2010.