Belk has invited schools and other nonprofit organizations in the company's 16-state market area to participate in its semiannual Belk Charity Sale from 6 to 10 a.m. April 27.

The four-hour, in-store shopping event serves as a fundraising tool for participating organizations, allowing shoppers to support local charities while taking advantage of special discounts.

Nonprofit organizations can get tickets to sell in advance, with all of the proceeds from each $5 ticket retained by that charity.

Nonprofits interested in participating should contact Millar at (770) 532-7021, ext. 208.

"As we celebrate our 125th anniversary, Belk is especially proud of our ability to give back to the communities who have supported us so much over the years," said Jessica Graham, Belk vice president of communications and community relations.

Tickets may also be purchased at Belk stores with all revenues from in-store ticket sales divided equally among participating charities and schools at the local store level. More than $10 million was raised in 2012 between the spring and fall charity sales, according to a news release from Belk.

On the morning of the sale, the first 100 customers to arrive will receive a Belk gift card, and customers will get $5 back on their first purchase. The cards will range in value from $5 to $100, and there's a chance to win one of three $1,000 Belk gift cards.

Also, participating charities and schools will be registered to win one of three $1,000 donations from Belk in a companywide drawing.