The OCC Silent Auction-big fundraiser or community event? A message from Sue...

As a participant of the Silent Auctions for 4 years now, and the current chair, I wanted to give my perspective to current OCC families. While the Silent Auction is our biggest fund-raiser in terms of dollars raised for the scholarship fund, it is truly a community event. What does that mean? I am opening up this blog to have a discussion with new families about the event and to give veteran families and staff a chance to talk about their experiences with the auction.

Please do not feel that the school expects families to donate items AND buy tickets, AND buy items at the auction. If you are interested in doing so, please feel free, but do not feel obligated or burdened by the auction. The most important personal goal for me as chair is to have EVERY family and staff member participate in some fashion. Why? Because that is an important component of Montessori education to me, personally. So, that is my focus
this year.

First and foremost, please come and have fun! This year, with a ticket purchase incentive of buy 3 tickets, get 1 free for current OCC families,you could potentially attend for free. Yes, you will still have to find a baby-sitter. But, it doesn't have to be for 5 hours. The bulk of the action happens from 7-9:30 pm.

Not a Silent Auction fan? Come for the music of the Dave Skipper Duo, then Trixie Neptune (a new band in town), to enjoy the wonderful food of the Atherton, and to get to know fellow parents better. Remember that $10 of your ticket purchase goes right into the scholarship fund. There is no fussy dress code or pretense. It is really fun and interesting.

Interested in trying an auction, but intimidated? The committee ALWAYS presents items in a wide range of prices. We seek out items from local businesses, hand crafted items, and family experiences. All attendants receive a bidding number that keeps your name anonymous. Bidding instructions are available on Auction Night.

Not interested in consumerism and offering more "stuff" for bidding? Offer to help with various home made projects of the children, alumni classes, and committee members. Volunteer your time to set up on Auction Day at the Atherton.

Want to donate, but have no idea what to buy or make? Call me :) I am apparently full of ideas (so my committee members tell me), but short on time! 238-1199 Or, make a monetary donation to help cover the cost of making notecards, beaded bracelets, decorated t-shirts, etc. A monetary donation
can also be made to allow the committee to create themed baskets for bidding. No gift is too small. Just use your purple parent donation form to fill in your amount. More donation forms are available in the office.

Every piece of the puzzle fits together to make this event a success. Look forward to seeing you on April 11th!