In a place well known for its nightlife, it seems a little bizarre to have someone struggling in his or her search to find something to do.

But for some adults, State College nightlife seems to cater more toward students, leaving some locals searching for entertainment other than at the typical bar scene.

Elaine Richardson, associate professor of English and Applied Linguistics, will be holding her annual fundraiser, Grown Folks' Nite, to support African American students from State College High School.

"I started this event because there are no outlets for soul music in this community. I thought it would be a good fundraiser for the school and a place for people 21 and over to dance to soul music and eat soul food," Richardson said.

Richardson said she set up Grown Folks' Nite in order to raise funds for the group's annual tour of historical African American colleges and universities.

Richardson became involved in the support group when her daughter told her the students needed a faculty member to be an adviser. The support group is a place where students can deepen their experiences of African American culture and education.

"I'm an outreach activist person," Richardsn said. "I was there to be the adult mentor for the students and help them get resources. My role has changed as needed by the students."

Janet Lyon, English professor, said she enjoys attending Grown Folks' Nite because people are there to support a great cause while enjoying great music and food.

"It's a ball. It is also really nice for people who aren't undergrads because the bar scene is mostly geared to undergrads and there is no place for older folks to go out and dance," she said.

Phyllisa Smith (graduate-English) said she has attended Grown Folks' Nite every year since she has been a graduate student at Penn State.

"I have yet to attend an event in State College that is as fun, soulful and classy as Grown Folks' Nite," she said.

Richardson said she will also be singing at the event, something she's been doing since an early age. Her set includes songs by Aretha Franklin, Jill Scott as well as music from her new debut CD.

"This event gives me an opportunity to do the kind of music that I'm good at while making money for the kids," she said.

Smith said she is also looking forward to hearing the professor sing.

"If you haven't heard Elaine, then you haven't heard State College's finest," Smith said.

Richardson said her album is geared toward adults who enjoy R&B.

"I can't be bootylicious," she said. "My music is for adult people who don't feel like they're too old to have a good time and who still like to go out and party. It's classy."