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Awesome Auction raises $80,000-plus

Heartland Youth Centre and supporters enjoyed “A Night in New York City” for its 20th annual Awesome Auction last Saturday.
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Heartland Youth Centre executive-director Winnie Bissett and volunteer Dustin Jackson “head off to New York” in a taxi from the fundraising Awesome Auction last Saturday.

Heartland Youth Centre and supporters enjoyed “A Night in New York City” for its 20th annual Awesome Auction last Saturday.

“Our goal was to raise $80,000 and we raised over $80,000,” said HYC executive-director Winnie Bissett.

“It’s always a lot of fun and everyone’s there for a good time.”

This year’s event drew a crowd of 285 people, just short of a sell-out of 300, she said.

Community support for HYC and youth programs was again expressed during the event.

“It’s a program that the community strongly supports by both donations of auction items and bids from people,” Bissett said.

“Quite a few people came up to me during the evening and thanked me and the committee for such a great time, and they plan to come back next year.”

A quilt made by Letty Docherty was a hot item, as one of more than 200 items donated for live and silent auctions.

As a special token of appreciation, three businesses teamed up to bid for a barbecue and bocci set package, and donated it to the HYC staff.

“That was so special for our staff,” Bissett said.

Funds from the auction and dinner will help HYC continue to provide programs for 300 youths ages six to 18.

Bissett said Heartland Youth Centre is proud to bring the Kids at Hope philosophy, which believes “all children are capable of success — no exceptions.”

Under the Big Brothers and Big Sisters programs and the Girls’ and Boys’ Club of Stettler and Area, HYC offers programs for after-school activities and mentoring.

For more information, phone 403-742-5437 (KIDS).

RICHARD FROESE, Independent reporter