LEWISPORTE -
While the attendance numbers for the 25th annual Calypso Fantasy Auction were down a little this year (150-160 in attendance), there was a lot of enthusiastic bidding that made up for it to the tune of $16,000.
That's the total raised through the auction event that will go towards supporting the Calypso Living Skills Program. This program assists participants in achieving their potential given their abilities and skills.
The Calypso Foundation receives no government funding to offer this program. It is operated solely through fund raising efforts, with the auction providing for a lot, but not all of the cost required to offer what is deemed an essential program for Calypso clients who take part in it.
"There's no other program that meets the same needs in this area," said Calypso manager Colleen Barrett. "This year marked the 25th auction and this program has been running for 26 years.
"For a community based program to be running that long is an amazing achievement made possible solely by the support of the community."
Event coordinator Angie Welsh was very pleased with how the auction evening unfolded. For some time now she has been heavily involved in contacting donors for auction items, receiving items and preparing for the event.
"It was a lot of work, but we made it fun," she said.
Ms. Welsh and Ms. Barrett worked day and night for the two weeks leading up to the auction to ensure everything was in place. Their working relationship was one that made the experience an enjoyable one as they complimented each other.
"Angie has done a fantastic job," Ms. Barrett said.
She replied by saying, "Colleen makes it easy for you."
Both women wished to extend their appreciation to the individuals, businesses and organizations who supported the auction by donating items or services to bid on.
"None of this would have been possible without them," said Ms. Welsh.
Ms. Barrett added, "Despite tougher economic times people were very generous. They were calling us - we didn't have to call them necessarily. Their donations were given enthusiastically despite the numerous requests that they must receive on a daily basis.
"It's not necessarily a donor/recipient type of deal - it's a partnership and we are very pleased that we have excellent relationships with all of our community partners. We are grateful to have their support and we certainly encourage everyone to support our donors."
One last note that everyone always asks after the auction is over is, "Who won the door prize?" This year the lucky winner of two tickets anywhere West Jet flies was Mike Pearce.
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