A Friend’s House, Madison County’s domestic violence shelter, is accepting advance registrations for its first annual silent auction fundraiser planned for Aug. 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 380 Keny Blvd. in London.
Program highlights include a double entrée, four-course catered dinner by Ann & Tony’s Restaurant; music by folk guitarist Dean Snyder, pianist Hannah Smith and the London Music Men Barbershop Quartet; and a presentation by keynote speaker Karen Days of the Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence.
In addition to a wide array of items on which to bid, there will be more than 20 raffle prizes, including gourmet food baskets, dinner gift cards to fine restaurants, gas cards, tickets to sporting and entertainment events and significant discounts on a variety of professional services.
Auction tickets cost $25 per person ($40 for two) and may be purchased by sending a check or money order to: A Friend’s House, P.O. Box 673, London, OH 43140.
For planning purposes, tickets to the auction must be purchased no later than Aug. 8. Because of limited seating, the public is encouraged to register early. Registration will close after the seating capacity of 80 adults has been reached.
“This important, private fundraiser will help sustain shelter programs and outreach efforts as funds from grants and other sources become depleted,” stated Executive Director Sue Ellen Hughes. “Our goal is to raise $5,000 so that the shelter can maintain its current level of services for the remainder of the year.”
The Silent Auction Committee hopes to collect at least 50 high quality donations for the auction along with several prizes for raffle giveaways.
Some suggestions for giving include: antiques, collectibles, handmade quilts, fine china and crystal, original artwork and fine art prints, crocheted or knitted items, wall hangings, Longaberger baskets, pot-tery, attractive lawn decorations and fine jewelry.
For prizes, the committee is especially interested in collecting gift cards and gift baskets, as well as tickets for sporting or entertainment events.
“We will consider any items of value that are fairly portable, in excellent condition and which we believe will have high interest for approximately 80 guests,” said Diane Spradlin, volunteer services coordinator for A Friend’s House.
“About the only things we’re discour-aging are toys, appliances, tools and large pieces of furniture.”
A Friend’s House opened its doors to victims of domestic violence in 2001. As Madison County’s only domestic violence program, it has provided services to more than 1,600 individuals and families in crisis, including safe shelter, court advocacy, job and housing assistance, referrals to legal and social services and a 24-hour crisis line.
Auction proceeds will sustain shelter services and programs through 2008 and increase community outreach and preven-tion efforts. For more information, to purchase tickets or to donate auction items, contact the shelter at 740-852-7761.
