Starlight Auction draws a generous crowd
Nearly $298,000 raised to support ARC's life-saving operations
The Animal Refuge Center is one of the real jewels of Southwest Florida, taking in dogs and cats that have been abused, abandoned or gone unloved and not only giving them a place to stay without fear of being euthanized, but also a chance to find a forever home.
To do that takes money, a whole lot of money for expenses.
This is why every year, on Thanksgiving weekend, animal lovers come to the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort and Spa for ARCs biggest fundraiser of the year, the 31st annual Starlight Auction, held Saturday.
According to Wayne Leinen, president of ARC, the auction raised $297,630 for the room and board and medical care of these animals. It was the second highest total in the history of the event, Leinen said.
Rob Spicker, vice president of ARC and the auctioneer for the night, said they did a few things differently from years past. However, the goal remains the same.
“We set a goal for the silent auction. The baskets are worth $36,000 and we hope to raise $35,000,” Spicker said. “We have a great group of supporters who recognize the money is going to support our mission.”
There were dozens of gift baskets sold off in the silent auction as well as more than 20 items sold in the general auction, including trips and jewelry — including one donated piece that sold for more than $27,000.
There was even a quick fundraiser where auction goers could give a large donation to be is matched by an anonymous benefactor up to $50,000. That alone reached nearly $130,000.
Sponsorships raised around $80,000, with the title sponsor being Dave and Jennifer Nichols, who have been benefactors for ARC pretty much since its inception.
Jennifer started as a volunteer more than 35 years ago before becoming a veterinarian hospital manager. She said the evening turned out splendid.
“People were bidding and bidding well, and often and high. That’s the goal of the evening,” Jennifer said. “ARC is near and dear to my heart. I was a board member when we purchased the property. It’s a joy to see the community come out for such an organization.”
Jennifer said now that she has retired she would like to volunteer more. Volunteers are the backbone of what ARC does.
Bonnie Tate works with the special needs cats, like those with feline leukemia, heart problems and other maladies.
“When I come in I love on them, clean up after them, scoop boxes, give them treats and show them they deserve a place in the world,” Tate said. “ARC doesn’t do easy. They take the animals other shelters turn away or euthanize.”
Julia Owens helps ARC come up with the auction items and has been a regular part of the auction for nearly 20 years.
“I love saving the dogs. I love cats, but I’m a big dog person. I love the setup. Each dog has its own lodge, indoor and outdoor space. The cats have actual houses,” Owens said. “It’s just a great home for them as they find their forever home.”
Overall, it was a great night for ARC, once again raising a record or near record amount, said Leinen.
“We had a great sponsorship level going into this evening. We had phenomenal donations and the live auction did $51,000 by itself. I think we’re close to a record,” Leinen said. “As always we have great support from the community and a great group of people who make it happen and make the night successful.”
The next huge fundraiser will be Casino Royale, which will happen in late Spring.
ARC is at 18011 Old Bayshore Road. For more information or to donate or adopt, go to its website at animalrefugecenter.com.