More than 120 premium items will be auctioned off in live and silent auctions Saturday night to raise money for Powell River Kings and Powell River and District United Way.
The 16th Annual Dream Auction Gala takes place at Dwight Hall and the event has raised more than $800,000 in its first 15 years, according to Powell River Kings Society president Joe Mastrodonato. Last year's gala brought in more than $50,000, he says.
"This has been a very popular event for the past 15 years and this year promises to be just as good," says Mastrodonato.
Auction items range in value and bids can be made on anything from a $20 gift certificate up to a $12,000 hot tub donated by RONA Powell River. The live auction is hosted by Dan De Vita.
Funds raised at the auction are split evenly between the Kings and United Way; the relationship between the two organizations has been very strong, according to United Way director and RONA general manager Pat Hull.
"The Kings are excellent to work with. They have deep roots in this community and they are very committed," says Hull. "Local businesses know the value of both organizations very well, so it's a good event for both of us."
Hull has been involved with United Way for more than 20 years. The Dream Auction Gala is the organization's major fundraiser each year, so the event is very important to the organization and the programs it supports, he says.
“United Way is a phenomenal organization," says Hull. "We serve more people than any other organization, but we tend to do it by supporting and facilitating other organizations.”
Hull says he encourages the public to buy tickets for the auction gala, which includes a full catered dinner by The Convenient Chef. Tickets are available for $50 each at RONA and Capone's Cellar until Friday, May 12. Table reservations can be made by calling 604.483.1412.
"The dinner is always top-notch," says Hull, "and it's a wonderful fundraiser for our organizations."
16th Annual Dream Auction Gala
When: 5 pm doors, dinner 6:45 pm, Saturday, May 13
Where: Dwight Hall
Price: $50
Info: 604.483.1412
