Dining in the Dark raises $16,000
The Lighthouse of SWFL was wondering how its biggest fundraiser could succeed since people could not physically attend due to restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As it turns out, things went much better than expected.
The 10th annual Dining in the Dark fundraiser, which added the phrase “From a Distance,” raised $16,000 for programs serving those who are blind and visually impaired.
The event held on May 16 also included an online auction that was held from noon on May 15 to 11:45 p.m. on May 18.
While it was not the $40,000 the event raised last year, there also was much less in the way of expenses, said Carolyn Baker McCord, director of Development and Communications at Lighthouse, thus making the event a success.
“We don’t pay for the commissary, but it was buying tablecloths and renting the tables that we didn’t have to do because we were online,” Baker-McCord said. “Online events will change the way we raise money. It’s the awareness you get from all over the world.”
Baker-McCord said that with the pandemic, there were some people and businesses that were unable to open their checkbooks, but they were still pleased with the outcome, since, despite it all, there were still people willing to give.
On May 16, guests were greeted at the Millennial Brewing Company parking lot entrance for curbside pick-up of their pre-ordered meal prepared by 3g Catering, Craft Beer from Millennial Brewing Company, and dessert from BIMBO Bakery.
An informational card provided guests access to the online auction for bidding and insightful video clips with instructional tips to walk guests through donning the blindfold and using techniques taught by Lighthouse of SWFL instructors to help them enjoy dinner without vision.
Baker-McCord said this year’s fundraiser was a learning experience and that the online aspect of the event could remain, at least for the silent auction.
“We plan on having Dining in the Dark next year, but haven’t decided whether to do it online or not. Depending on the pandemic, where are we. Can we still gather with 150 people next year?” Baker-McCord said.
Lighthouse of SWFL is a United Way partner agency serving individuals with blindness and vision impairment in Lee, Glades, and Hendry counties. Its mission is to enable people of all ages living with visual impairment or blindness to remain independent, active, and productive in society.
For more information about Lighthouse of SWFL, visitwww.lighthouseswfl.org or call 997-7797.