It Takes a Team to Educate a Child
Saturday, November 20, 2010
What is the auction?
The annual auction is the greatest single fundraiser undertaken by both the parents and the school. Our annual auction has been raising approximately $120,000 each year, for the past several years. This goal has been reached through company sponsorships, business or family ads in our auction catalog, and many donations from our school families and area businesses. The evening begins with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres during a silent auction followed by a live auction throughout a plated dinner and dessert dash.
Why an auction? Why not try other ways of raising funds?
There are number of ways for a school to raise money. The majority of methods involve door-to-door sales of wrapping paper, magazines or popcorn as well as bake sales and yard sales. While each of these methods does create income, no combination of these type fund raisers can make as much money for our school as the annual auctions do.
The auction is a highly focused fund-raising event. Our Catholic community and the community at large have become familiar with both St. John the Apostle Catholic School and our annual auction.
What are the goals for the auction?
The current design of the auction serves three goals:
1. Raise Money. Clearly the funds made are considerable and of great benefit to our school community. Raising money must always be the auction’s first goal.
2. Community. The auction serves as an opportunity for SJA families and friends to come together for an elegant evening out to celebrate our school, the school community and the common interest in the Catholic education of our children.
3. Public Relations. Celebrating our school at the auction with the area’s greater Catholic community, keeps a strong connection with our non-school family supporters. Many local parishioners support Catholic education, and we invite them all to join us in celebration of St. John the Apostle Catholic School.
Where does the money go?
A majority of the funds contribute to budgeted expenses, faculty wages and improvements to our school. Other funds raised at the auction is dedicated to tuition assistance.
Who coordinates and organizes the auction?
The auction has historically been organized by SJA parent volunteers with the assistance of the SJA Development Office.
Do I need to pre-purchase tickets?
Yes.
How can I get an auction catalog?
Yes, auction catalog will be available for preview three days prior to auction. Please contact the development office.
What if I do not win the items I bid on, but I still want to help the school on auction night?
In the past, money has been raised for the school library, a new copy machine, playground equipment and a technology fund. The auctioneer will facilitate this by asking who is willing to contribute towards this valuable fund. All you need to do is raise your bidder paddle when the amount you choose to donate is announced. The donation will appear in your auction total when you check out at the end of the auction.
How can I help, make a donation, or purchase advertising in the auction catalog?
All contributions are most welcome and even the smallest donation is of great importance in making the auction a success.
- Make a donation – Many items are needed for the auction. Of course, donated items or gift certificates from businesses are very important, but that is only the beginning!
- Do you have a vacation home that you can offer for a week?
- Can you perform a service: cook a gourmet meal, paint a room, babysit or teach someone how to understand their computer? The possibilities are endless!
- Can you build or make something? Handmade items like quilts, clothes, furniture and toys make our auction unique and special.
- Become a Patron or Table Sponsor – Sponsors receive a variety of benefits including specialty wine at table and special gift.
- Purchase Advertising in our Auction Catalog- Advertising in our auction catalog can be great exposure for local businesses. Individuals can also purchase ads to show their support for our school or congratulate a loved one.
- Donate your time- many hands are needed to make the auction a success! We need a representative from most families in the school to help in some way. Find out how you can help by contacting the Development Office.