Event To Fund Grant For Therapy/Reading Dogs
The Manheim Central Foundation for Educational Enrichment (MCFEE) will host a new fundraising event, the 2020 MCFEE 4 Kids Virtual Auction, starting on Friday, May 8, and continuing through Sunday, May 17. The virtual auction event format was chosen after MCFEE's signature fundraiser, the 17th annual MCFEE 4 Kids Auction event that had been set for March 28, was canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Upon cancellation of the March 28 event, the MCFEE Auction Committee and trustees began considering a safe and practical alternative, and they decided on the virtual auction. "Supporters can now participate in the fundraiser from the comfort of their homes," explained MCFEE executive director Amy Howett, noting that the auction is open to the public.
Registration and an auction preview are currently open. Starting on May 8, individuals may participate in the virtual auction via Bidpal, a mobile auction fundraising platform, by visiting http://www.bidpal.net/mcfee4kids.org. "Anyone can register and participate in the auction from a PC, a laptop, or any smart mobile device," Howett noted, adding that the virtual auction platform is designed to be user friendly.
Hundreds of auction items will be up for bids. "There truly is something for everyone," Howett said. Among the items will be more than 40 themed baskets, children's items, sports items, tickets, and arts and crafts, including quilts and handmade items. "Many gift cards and certificates are up for bids from local Lancaster County restaurants and small businesses," Howett pointed out, adding, "What a great way to support these local businesses in the near future."
A variety of experiences will be offered as well, such as Kalahari Resort waterpark passes and a gift card; a rafting adventure for four on Pine Creek in the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon; an Amorette wine pairing and five-star dining experience; a Hotel Hershey spa experience; an overnight stay at Camelback Resort in the Poconos; a Discover Lancaster experience with an overnight stay at the Lancaster Marriott, Fulton Theatre tickets, and a meal at the Belvedere Inn; and a bed-and-breakfast weekend stay at the Inn at Varick Vineyard and Winery in the New York Finger Lakes region.
Pickup of auction items will be available curbside by appointment only at Myer's Furniture on Route 72 in Manheim. All winners will be contacted by MCFEE to arrange a pickup appointment.
Proceeds raised from the 2020 MCFEE 4 Kids Virtual Auction will fund a special grant providing two MC Reads therapy/reading dogs for Baron and Doe Run elementary schools. A "donate" option will be available as well. "The purpose of the dogs is to improve reading skills and levels in students while building excitement and improving mental health and school climate," said Howett.
MCFEE helps to fund teacher grants that provide innovative and enhanced opportunities for Manheim Central students. "Creativity and ingenuity are needed to educate and prepare students for the future," Howett noted. "MCFEE is committed to providing that support to Manheim Central teachers and students." Since 2001, MCFEE has raised more than $1.4 million to provide educational enrichment to Manheim Central students.
More information can be found by searching for "MCFEE 4 Kids" on Facebook, visiting http://www.mcfee4kids.org, or calling Howett at 717-951-0710.
Leave a Review