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| SnowCap auction record helps meet goals to serve needy DOUG PORTER FOR THE MID-COUNTY MEMO
SnowCap’s fourth annual dinner-auction at the Airport Sheraton Hotel on Saturday, Feb. 11 raised more than $44,000, a substantial increase over the agency’s 2005 total of $35,000. “We hung up the ‘sold out’ sign,” said SnowCap Executive Director Judy Alley, explaining that more than 300 supporters attended the dinner and silent and oral auction activities. The event was moved to the Sheraton at the airport this year to increase the dinner attendance, she said. The total included more than $12,000 that was earmarked for assisting families facing unpaid heating bills. Pacific Power and Portland General Electric jointly pledged $5,000 toward the heating fund and “that was quickly matched by our audience,” Alley added. Having fun at the SnowCap Community Charities Valentine Dinner Auction held last month. Seated at the Wells Fargo table are, from left, Elaina Bachinsky, Holly Ikola, Celia Ward and Stacey Foreman. A record $44,000 was raised at the 4th annual event. Readers will note the unusual yet topical centerpiece in the lower right corner of the photo; empty cans symbolize the ebb and flow of the canned goods used to feed the needy in east Multnomah county. Representatives from SnowCap also told the Memo the candles are meant to symbolize heat and light. “Food and electricity are at the heart of our services,” Alley said. “Food and light represent security and hope. The funds raised at this event will help keep the lights on, the home warmer and food in the cupboard for many low-income seniors, out-of-work parents, needy children and chronically-disabled adults.” The event was a collaboration of “community leaders, individual donors and numerous businesses, large and small that contributed time, money, goods and services. It is community action at its finest,” she said. Popular items included travel packages, wine country tours, hot air balloon and riverboat rides, gourmet dining and a jailhouse lunch with Gresham Police Chief Carla Piluso, a crowd favorite. SnowCap Community Charities in 2005 distributed more than 21,000 food boxes, provided clothing to more than 6,000 children, gave school supplies to 2,400 youngsters and helped more than 300 families with winter heat. In addition, SnowCap helps teach English as a second language and provides financial education to many families and individuals. Alley noted the hard work of the Auction Committee headed by Carlene Weldon and the agency’s board led by Pastor Ann Richards. Television personality Wayne Faligowski was master of ceremonies and Jill Marie Wiles was the fast-talking auctioneer. “We’re taking a short breather and getting ready for next year right away,” Alley added. In the meantime, you are invited to visit the Web site at www.snowcap.org or call 503-674-8785 to lend a helping hand. |
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