Our popular Spring Auction, UUCWC’s biggest fundraiser of the year, accounts for a good portion of our operational budget. This year, it is projected to be about 7%. Best of all, half of the Auction proceeds over the budgeted amount will be donated to an organization selected by UUCWC’s Council for Faith in Action. And now, you can contribute toward this year’s auction to ensure its success.
With gatherings still limited due to the pandemic, Auction 2021 “Together Wherever We Are” will be an online virtual event, which will be open for bidding Saturday, May 1, through Saturday, May 8. Auction items include many opportunities to get to know one another, enjoying food, fun and fellowship in a variety of settings.
If you’re a new member or haven’t participated in the past, you may not be aware of all the ways you can contribute. As you read on, you’ll see examples of items donated in the past listed in parentheses.
What do you or your family like to do? How could you share that?
Like to cook or to dine out?
• Host a meal at your home (following safety guidelines), a great way to share both food and fellowship (BBQ rib dinner, pasta supper, clambake, garden brunch, afternoon tea).
• Host a meal at a favorite local restaurant of your choice.
• Offer a tasty, home-cooked dish to be delivered to lucky winners (veggie lasagna, soup, shepherd’s pie, baked goods).
Enjoy cultural events? Donate a concert, theatrical event or museum visit (Grounds for Sculpture, Philadelphia Orchestra, Bucks County Playhouse, Magic Gardens Museum).
Do you have a special skill, talent or interest you can share or teach?
Why not invite others to join in something you love to do (plant potting, sing-along, bocce ball, silk scarf painting, jewelry making, movie watching, game playing, photography, bowling, dancing, Trenton Thunders game)?
Can you offer a service? Use your expertise to help someone else or create a custom-made product (knitting, sewing, yardwork, home energy audit, handyperson service, dance lesson, photo shoot, hair styling, tennis lessons, hypnosis, nail treatment, tutoring, childcare).
Do you have treasures that need a new home?
Gently used items in like-new condition that you’ve enjoyed or new items you can’t use are always a hit (jewelry, scarves, home décor, handmade crafts, small appliances). We ask that items be worth at least $25. Please note that we cannot accept artwork. Also, physical items will not be stored at or distributed through the church building.
Could you offer your vacation home?
Share your favorite getaway spot. Bidding is always lively for a weekend or weeklong stay at a vacation destination.
Can you donate a gift basket or gift card?
Put together an appealing assortment of goodies (wine, baking supplies, beauty products, gourmet foods, hair care) or contribute a gift card to an area restaurant or shop. Many businesses are happy to donate items or gift cards for a good cause — it doesn’t hurt to ask! Purchasing a gift card is a win-win situation to support the business and the church at the same time.
As you can see, the possibilities are endless! Let your creativity be your guide. You don’t need to spend a lot — if anything — and you can team up with other people if you’d like.
The deadline for contributions is Sunday, April 3. You can submit your contribution electronically by completing the Contribution Planning Form, which can also be found on our website under the Giving tab Spring Auction 2021 page.
If you have questions or would like more information, email auction@uucwc.org