The 1980's were, undisputedly, a totally rad era ... at least in the sense that the most successful theme and costume parties center on the decade.

Just watch a few of VH1's "I Love the 80's" episodes. That should be enough for you to embrace the style, fashion and music of the 80's whole heartedly. And this Friday night, Richmonders will have the opportunity to participate in a "blast from the past" party, all for a good cause.

However, this is no ordinary 80's soiree.

No, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia (PPAV) has gone way beyond "Flashdance," leg warmers and Hammer pants, and is asking you to "walk like an Egyptian, get into my car, whatever it takes" to get to "80's Prom: A Totally Radical Benefit for Planned Parenthood."

"We've got a few goals," said Courtney Jones, grassroots organizer for the Virginia League of Planned Parenthood (VLPP).

"It's a fundraiser to raise money for our (c)(4), which is our political arm, and through that we are able to engage in public education, legislative activity and electoral activities. We're trying to build up our bank so that we can be active in the 2008 election, since it's going to be a really big year for Virignia."

Another huge piece of the fundraising and awareness puzzle that Jones and other advocates of the VLPP are working to put together is that of appealing to a new type of supporter, namely of the young professional crowd.

"This is an opportunity to draw people in with a fun dance party, but it's also an opportunity for me to talk about how critical this election is and how prominent women's health issue are going to be in this election," Jones said.

But PPAV promises that there will be plenty of fun and dance at this party. Attendees will enjoy classic 80's dance music from DJ Rad, and in lieu of the theme are asked to tease their bangs, pull out the puffy sleeve, dust off their neon tuxedos and embrace all that is 80's fashion.

Speaking of attendees, Richmond.com intern Ryan Brosmer has promised to moonwalk himself into the Prom on Friday night, sporting a "sweet American Apparel V-neck, the shortest shorts I can find, hot kicks and giant sunglasses."

"I also might wear my cycling cap," Brosmer said, which is covered in bright colors; something he knows that were very popular in the 80's.

And what 80's Prom would be complete with out a Prom Court?

The Court will be formed based on how much they donate, so make sure not to forget your checkbook at home. There's also an insiders secret that only Richmond.com is privy to ... and trust us, it's something you will regret if you miss. PPAV will also be raffling off a very, non-80's, technology savvy Ipod Touch.

But among all the fun and "Fast Times at Ridgemont High," that you'll certainly have, there's obviously a serious issue at hand.

"Whoever gets in the oval office is probably going to have the opportunity to nominate Supreme Court Justices, so this is just a really historic election," Jones said.

"My goal is to have people walking out of the 80's Prom saying 'I learned something I didn’t know; now I need to get involved.'"

• "80's Prom: A Totally Radical Benefit for Planned Parenthood" will be held from 8 p.m. to midnight on Friday, June 27 at Gallery 5, located at 200 W. Marshall St. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. For more information and to purchase tickets or sponsorship levels, visit ppav.org/80spromric.html.