Animal Refuge Center’s Starlight Auction Nov. 28
The Animal Refuge Center is always in need of donations and now, with what they’re doing in regards to saving pets in the wake of the tragic flooding that occurred in the Carolinas, that money is needed more than ever.
On Saturday, Nov. 28, at 6 p.m. at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort and Spa, ARC will hold its 21st annual Starlight Auction, which every year raises hundreds of thousands of dollars to allow the shelter, located in North Fort Myers on Old Bayshore Road, to continue its mission of finding loving homes for pets without euthanization.
“It’s an opportunity for 300 people to come and celebrate the successes ARC has had this year and to lay the foundation for what we can accomplish in 2016,” said Betty Hughes, auction chairperson.
This Starlight Auction is expected to be the biggest ever, with dozens of great items up for bid, including jewelry, artwork, stays at local resorts and trips.
Items include a trip to the Heritage Safari Lodge in South Africa, a three-day two-night stay at the Diamond Head Resort in Fort Myers Beach, two tickets to any Florida Symphony concert, a Rolex watch, a 14K yellow gold pendant, an 18-inch sterling silver Pave Diamond pendent, a sterling silver “Living Sea Life” bracelet and matching sea turtle earrings, a solid cherry rocking horse with leather bridle and saddle, a complete set of Callaway golf clubs with bag/stand and much more.
“We have many highly desirable items and we offer about 120 silent auction items and 23 high-end auction items,” Hughes said.
There will also be a challenge grant, a non-item auction that raises funds for operational expenses and lays the groundwork for 2016. The challenged match goal this year is $75,000.
The Starlight Auction is one of many fundraising events held by ARC throughout the year. On Friday, Dec. 18, will be Lights of Love; Purses for Pooches happens Saturday, Jan. 2, and Casino Night will be in February.
This year has been a challenge for ARC, which recently rescued 26 pets from the flooding in South Carolina and are now seeking foster homes for them until they can be adopted.
Last year’s auction raised about $245,000, with the goal this year to raise $300,000, Hughes said.
Tickets are $75, which includes admission to the auction, live and silent, buffet dinner, complimentary cocktail, coffee and dessert.
Hughes said as of Tuesday about 60 tickets remained. Hughes said to get your tickets soon because the event usually sells out.
For more information, contact Betty Hughes at 841-0810.