Southampton Rotary held its 18th annual Benefit Dinner Auction on Saturday, October 26th at the Walker House in Southampton with amazing results.
Rotary President Rob Hughes reminded everyone of the work that Rotary does internationally as well as close to home. “We have contributed to the almost complete eradication of polio around the world with the help of Bill and Linda Gates. We also help with the international program for water supply and sanitation in Cameroon, Africa and have helped many young mothers there with maternal health that has reduced infant mortality.”
Through the evening’s silent and live auctions, along with sponsors and private donations, $30,000 was raised, part of which will go toward the renovation of the palliative care room at Saugeen Memorial Hospital and to other local Rotary projects such as the Day Away program.
The live auction brought in not only money for causes but also laughter as Rotarians tried to out-bid each other for the many donated items that included catered dinners by local chefs, a Rotary catered BBQ for 30 people, dining out dinners, golf packages and more.
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The highlight of the evening however, was the ‘Fund a Need’ auction that was initiated in area events by auctioneer Pat O’Connor. While receiving nothing tangible for their bids except knowing that they have helped a vital cause, bidders eagerly raised their bid cards in support of the Huron Shore Hospice located in Tiverton at Tiverton Park Manor.
“It’s important to have exceptional care at the end of life for our loves ones and the importance that the role of hospice plays,” said O’Connor introducing the ‘Fund a Need’. “Along with care, hospice provides respect and dignity at a difficult time.”
Co-Chair of the Huron Shores Hospice, Carol Rencheck, read a touching letter from a family who benefited from the Hospice.
At the end of the ‘Fund a Need’ auction, an incredible $40,000 was raised for Huron Shores Hospice. “I don’t even know what to say,” said Carol Rencheck tearfully. “This is simply amazing. It means we can now move forward on creating a second hospice care room. We are so fortunate to have Tiverton Park Manor partner with us to provide the space and supports that are needed.”
Organizer Sara Dolbeck said that it’s the many volunteers who make the event a success and that the event will be held again next year on October 17th.
