|
What is the auction?
The annual STM School auction is the greatest single fund raiser undertaken by the parents in support of the school. It consists of a silent auction, elegant seated dinner and an exciting live auction. Each year the auction committee chooses a new theme and location for the evening’s festivities.
I'm a new parent and have no clue what the auction is all about!
Join the club! All of us were new at one time. We jumped in and started selling advertising and gaining donations for the big unknown. But when we stepped into the auction and saw the magic that had been created, we were sold. Come to the auction and you'll "get it." Once you've experienced the evening, you'll be on board and probably chairing a committee next year. This is a fun and personally rewarding way to contribute to the school. You do not have to be an expert on the auction to be an important part of making it a success. We could not do all that needs to be done without the help of many parents who have never been to an auction.
Why an auction? Why not try other ways of making money?
There are a number of ways to raise funds for a school. The majority of methods involve door-to-door sales of wrapping paper, magazines, popcorn, etc. Additionally there are yard sales and bake sales. These all make money, but not substantial funds. Our Christmas Trees sales are the next largest money maker but they still are $10-15,000 less than the auction profits. To raise the money equal to the auction we’d need to have 4 door to door sales a year.
What are the Goals for the Auction?
The three primary functions of the auction are:
- Raise Money. Clearly the funds to be made are considerable and are of great benefit to our school.
- Provide an opportunity for school parents to come together and celebrate our school community and our common interest in the education of our children.
- Public Relations. An event of this scope not only brings in a huge amount of money, but also has a favorable impact on the community.
Where does the money go?
In 2005/2006, the money went to classroom renovations and storage upgrades.
Who coordinates and organizes the auction?
The auction is an organized effort of the auction committee which is part of the HSA. While the committee does much of the basic planning, it is the numerous individual parents and community members which are essential in making this massive undertaking a success.
What is the history of our auction?
The auction was held in the school gym until 1995. The next year it was held at the Carolina Inn. Back then the HSA board was responsible for running everything. That year they raised about $8,000. The next year it was held at the Carolina Club and raised $23,000 and was run by a separate committee. The auction grew steadily and broke $30,000 the following year. Since then it has always done well and it is known as the largest fundraiser for our school.
Some past themes:
- 1997: Mardi Gras Auction Extravaganza
- 1998: Broadway Bound
- 1999: STM School…There’s No Place Like Home
- 2002: A Knight to Remember
- 2003: Catch the Spirit
- 2004: La Gran Fiesta
- 2005: Under the Tuscan Sun
- 2006: An Evening in Paris
But why dinner? Why not just hors d’oeuvres?
The most successful auctions almost always utilize the dinner auction program. And, most importantly, you deserve a fine dining experience! This only adds to the fun atmosphere of the entire evening.
|