Strong community support for youth was again raised at the 18th annual Awesome Auction for Heartland Youth Centre in Stettler on June 5 at Stettler Community Hall.
“We’re probably right on track for fundraising from last year and again we sold out all 325 tickets,” said Winnie Bissett, executive director of HYC for the past 22 years.
Serving the region for 28 years, Heartland Youth Centre has gained strong support from all over the region.
“We’ve got a longtime reputation and get lots of support from residents, businesses, and other organizations,” said Bissett.
Fundraising figures were not finalized by presstime.
With steak and lobster and a black-and-white theme, the Awesome Auction stands as one of the top fundraising events of the year in Stettler.
“It’s a good evening and we make it as fun and enjoyable and a social time for people,” said Bissett.
A quilt with 3,000 one-inch squares made by Letty Docherty was the hot item of the night in the auction that featured over 200 items donated by businesses, individuals, and organizations.
“I couldn’t imagine how long it took her to complete that whole quilt,” said Bissett.
Another major item was a jersey signed by hockey great Gordie Howe, who had an illustrious career in the National Hockey League with the Detroit Red Wings.
Back by popular demand were airplane rides which are donated for children of Heartland Youth Centre to take an aerial flight over the Stettler region.
Local auctioneer Claude Dupont and Crowfoot MP Kevin Sorenson again spurred on the crowd to dig deep in their pockets.
Organizers were grateful for longtime supporters and many participating in the event for the first time.
Heartland Youth Centre serves 275 children and youth from ages six years to 18 in the Stettler region with 23 different programs under Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and the Girls’ and Boys’ Club of Stettler and Area.
For more information on Heartland Youth Centre, phone 403-742-5437.