Photo: Contributed
Talk about a dream come true.
Kalamalka Rotary’s 37th annual Dream Auction raised almost $200,000.
This year, the Dream Auction was a fully online event, complemented by a live streaming component that featured Rotarian Faith Wood as emcee and showcased local musicians, inspiring speakers and a message from auctioneer Don Raffan, who has participated in the event since 1984.
“We had to learn a whole new way of interacting with our guests and bidders,” auction chair Brian Reid said. “We began adding items to the online auction site in late October and had already raised over $173,000 by the time the auction began.
“Several items sold for above their retail value, a testament to the generosity of the people of Vernon. We are still tallying cash donations, and those who would like to help us reach our goal of $200,000, can still give through our website.”
The livestream event included singer Andrew Allen and local favourites Melina Schein, Tanya Lipscomb, Sherrie Erickson and Marv Matura, among others.
The event also included video presentations and keynote speakers Alvin Law and Andrea Menard.
“The success of the Dream Auction results from the generosity of local business and individuals who donate items, experiences or services, our sponsors and to those who bid on these items,” club president Jaqueline Rivard said.
“All the money raised at the Dream Auction is directed to dozens of worthy community and international projects each year. Over the past 37 years, Kal Rotary has donated a cumulative total of over $4,835,000 to local and international non-profit organizations.”
Community groups can begin applying for grants from now until the end of December. Full details are available at the Kal Rotary website under the Dream Auction tab, funding request.
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