Agency makes plans for fundraiser auction
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on January 23, 2006 1:55 PM
Home Health and Hospice Care Inc., 3HC, is gearing up for its fourth annual reverse drawing and silent and live auctions next month. Featuring a $10,000 grand prize this year, all proceeds from the event will benefit the Kitty Askins Hospice Center expansion fund.
The gala will be Thursday, Feb. 23, at Walnut Creek Country Club, with the silent auction starting at 5:30 p.m.
Lee Gray, events coordinator, said 3HC is in the early stages of its capital campaign but the ultimate goal is to double the number of beds at the facility. At present, there are six residential and six acute beds.
"We're almost constantly at capacity," she said. "There's an extreme need for our beds."
It would also be ideal to expand on existing rooms like the chapel and dining rooms, she said, but plans are still being developed.
Last year's fundraiser netted $50,000 for the cause, and Ms. Gray said it would be wonderful to top that amount this year.
"We understand that Hurricane Katrina has hurt a lot of charities," she said, but remains optimistic that the community will do its part to be supportive.
"It's a great evening. (Local attorney) Tim Finan is going to be our emcee and we'll have great auction items as well as a live auction."
Tickets are being sold at $100 a couple, which includes admission to the auction, dinner for two, and a chance to win the grand prize. Sponsorships are also being solicited and ads for the evening's program are being sold to help raise money.
A popular aspect of the event is the basket contest, Ms. Gray said. Created by individuals and departments at 3HC's nine clinical offices, she said the competition has grown so much that there are now two categories, traditional and non-traditional.
"It's more of an event than just a basket," she said. The two winners chosen are given tickets to the evening and all baskets are donated for the auction.
For tickets, information or to make a donation, contact Ms. Gray at 735-1387, ext. 113. Checks and money orders, payable to 3HC Reverse Drawing, can also be mailed to: 3HC, Reverse Drawing, 2307-A Norwood Ave., Goldsboro, NC 27534.