The Churchland and Portsmouth Rotary clubs are gearing up for their 32nd annual barbecue, set for 3 to 10 p.m. June 18 at North Suffolk’s former Tidewater Community College campus.

The event is the major fundraiser of the year for the two clubs, said Steve Milner, a member of Portsmouth Rotary.

Entertainment will be by Bill Deal’s Original Rhondels, as well as Hot Cakes.

One beneficiary of the event is the Edmarc Hospice for Children, Milner said. Another is a program providing every Portsmouth third-grader with a dictionary.

Meanwhile, Paint Your Heart Out involves sprucing up the homes of the indigent and senior citizens, Milner said. Six homes have benefited from the program in the past two months, he said.

The Portsmouth club recognizes first responders, Milner said, including two from the fire department and one each from the sheriff’s office, police department and Hampton Roads Regional Jail.

Many students receive scholarships thanks to the clubs, he said.

“It gives us operating money, separate from individual donations,” Milner said of the barbecue.

“Everything that comes in, after expenses, eventually goes out again. We are not in business; we are a nonprofit.”

Tickets for the event are $35 in advance and $45 at the gate. Price includes all-you-can-eat chicken and barbecue, provided by Rodman’s, plus soft brinks and adult beverages. Deserts will be available for purchase, and food will be served from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“I would say close to 1,000 people” are expected at the event, Milner said.

“It’s a combination of a fun time and the worthwhile cause. It’s just a good get-together.”

For advance tickets, visit www.portsmouthvarotary.org/BBQTIX.html.