Human Services Silent Auction

Last Thursday, November 30, I attended the 7th Annual Silent Auction and Chili Supper at the Human Services building. I was pleased to see a great turnout at the auction and a number of impressive items up for bid. A few items auctioned off to raise money included dinners; several festive holiday Santa collections; a Tickle Me Elmo Extreme; two remote control sailboats; and dozens of other great gift baskets/retail packages. A live auction was conducted near the end of the night by Council members Loretta Sieman and Bob Parks--a fun and entertaining event for a good cause.

Proceeds from the auction will be used to help low-income families in the West Des Moines area with emergencies such as homeless prevention, medical assistance, and other critical needs. In addition to the auction, a Chili Supper featuring Human Services Director Sue Paterson-Nielsen’s delicious chili gave the attendees a little warmth on a very cold night! It was a beautiful time to be in Valley Junction given the lighted trees, numerous groups of carolers on the street, and residents perusing the shops and enjoying a chilly but pleasant stroll down 5th.

With donations still coming in, the 2006 auction/supper raised over $6500 to assist families in crisis during the upcoming year. Thanks to the community support and participation, over 100 individuals braved the cold bitter wind of an Iowa winter night in Valley Junction to support Human Services in their mission to help those in need. I know that Human Services appreciates this support as they work to make a difference each day in the lives of our citizens. Thanks on their behalf to everyone involved.