Our annual Christmas “Loonie Toonie Auction” was held November 17th at St. Thomas Parish Hall in Waterdown, and once again it was a smashing success! With over 180 beautifully arranged gift baskets and prizes, there was something for everyone, including the Christmas shopper in all of us this time of the year. Some of the most sought-after items included a vacation in ski country, theatre tickets, diamond jewellery, and of course wine, wine and more wine! Our Soroptimist sisters worked hard to ensure an organized and fun evening by decorating the hall, greeting newcomers and returning guests at the door (and helping them fill their pockets with loonies and toonies!), calling the auction numbers (a job not for the faint of heart!), and handing out prizes to the winners. Once again this year, we were delighted that the winner of the Wine Fridge was a member of the audience.
This year there was a more open atmosphere, with displays of baskets along the walls, and an undivided hall where everyone could cheer on the winners. And cheer they did! The excitement kept building throughout the night, and it was wonderful to hear the laughter and just plain fun at all of the tables! Many of us heard the positive comments from our tables (especially about the delicious catered hot food and chocolate desserts), and promises to return to the auction next year. What a wonderful opportunity to show the value of Soroptimism to the community.
Many thanks to our young volunteers who helped make the evening a success by shepherding guests to their tables, handing out bottles of water, and clearing the tables as the night went on. You helped the evening go smoothly, and your assistance was much appreciated. Thanks go out as well to Kerry Jarvi, past president and former member of SI-DAF, who once again was the ultimate auctioneer! And to our sponsors and donors, our heartfelt appreciation for their support to SIDAF and programs for women and girls.
Best of all, we surpassed last year’s efforts by bringing in over $15,000; money that will help us support so many wonderful programs for women and girls in our communities!
Congratulations to the members of the Fundraising Committee for a spectacular and successful event. Truly, we are “women at their best, helping other women to be their best”!