Despite the strong snow storm that blew in, one of the biggest yearly fundraisers for the Ponoka Kinsmen Club was a success.
The local service club held its ninth annual auction on March 8 at the Royal Canadian Legion, attracting a good crowd that also opened their wallets during both the silent and live auction portions.
“We were here last year and it brings in a nice-sized crowd and looks nice all dressed up,” said club president Mike York.
“Weather can impact it, but luckily we have a lot of dedicated community members. They really like to show their support and are willing to come out and give a hand financially whenever they can.”
While the total amount raised wasn’t immediately available, York was really pleased with the activity and the items that people got to bid on.
The 19 live auction items included some big feature pieces, including $100 each month for a year to spend at Lacombe’s Cilantro and Chive, four rounds of golf plus carts at Wolf Creek Golf Resort, a patio furniture package and gravity feed barbecue.
Meanwhile, the silent auction saw a huge list ranging from luggage to gift certificates to art.
“This keeps us going every year. The businesses and community members in Ponoka are fantastic and do whatever they can to give back. Because of them, we can continue to do the work we do,” said York.
“This was probably one of the biggest years we had in terms of the number of silent auction items. There were some really good gifts out there.”
While the auction is the big public fundraiser, the club also brings in a significant amount through its annual phone book that was recently delivered in Ponoka.
“The phone book is the only fundraiser that is bigger than this,” he said.
“We are quite happy with the book. But in terms of bringing out the crowds and being able to say ‘thank you’ at the same time, this is it.
“It’s really nice to see all of the faces of those that do support the community.”
The club did make a $3,000 donation to Canadian Blood Services, but don’t have a specific project to fund this year.
“We are going into our second year of operating the Downhill Derby and will be hosting the second annual Kin-toberfest. However, in terms of projects, we are continuing to look into developing our recreation park, something we are really excited about,” he said.
“That said, we are looking to the community for an indication of what they feel is needed in town, so that we can support that interest.”
