HOULTON, Maine — Houlton Rotarians were not quite sure how this year’s annual fund-raising auction would fare given the state of the country amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an unprecedented year with multiple events cancelled, the Houlton Rotary Club was determined to hold its 65th Annual Radio, TV and Internet Auction in a virtual format and if the final tally was any indication, it was a resounding success.
The auction grossed more than $61,000, a 9 percent increase over last year and includes money from bidding, advertising, sponsorships and donations.
The bidding alone was over $46,000 this year, which was 11 percent higher than the 2019 auction. There was, also, more than $6,400 in donations made through the auction including six Boy and the Boot pledges for the Houlton Regional Health Services Foundation and donations to Cary Library for the purchase of books.
Houlton Rotary President Katie Hill gets ready to go on the air as an online auctioneer
during the club’s annual auction.
(Courtesy of Andy Mooers)
“We are thrilled with the success of the auction and overwhelmed by the generosity of the community, especially in a year like everyone has been having,” said Rotary President Katie Hill. “We are grateful for the support that will allow us to fund such worthwhile projects that will have an impact on individuals locally and worldwide.”
After expenses are paid, proceeds from the auction will benefit the event’s major project, which is a snowmobile and cross country ski trail groomer to compliment the Houlton Recreation Department’s Winter Sports Trailer, which was funded by the auction a few years ago.
Other projects that will be assisted by auction proceeds include computers for the Putnam House, Hodgdon JMG Veterans Day Program, Cary Library and Backpacks for Kids. The auction also helps to fund the Houlton Club’s regular charities such as Dollars For Scholars at all area schools, Student Recognition Day, youth baseball and the Rotary Youth Exchange Program.
Houlton Rotary Auction Chairperson Meg York serves as an auctioneer during the club’s online auction this year.
(Courtesy of Andy Mooers)
The annual auction is Houlton Rotary’s largest fundraiser each year and requires the work of the entire club and the support of area businesses and individuals. This year’s Auction Chair Meg York said, “We can’t thank the community enough for their continued support of this project … from those who donate items, sponsor and advertise to those who bid and purchase the goods. It is a true community event and it wouldn’t be possible without all of this generosity.”
Further information on the auction or Rotary is available by contacting Hill, York or any Houlton Rotarian. Results of the auction including successful bidders can be found at the club’s website at www.houltonrotary.org.
