Re-Gifting Auction Helps Out Local Charity

Over the years each and every one of us has surely gotten a holiday gift that left us less than enamored. How many of us have a sweater, book, or chotchke that we cast aside after receiving.  However, instead of letting those items languish in the back of closets or basements, the members of the Rockland Business Women's Network, RWBN, put their unwanted, unused gifts to good use by holding a re-gifting auction.   

"A couple of years ago we decided while fundraising that we wanted to have some fun doing it," said RWBN President Beth Blecker. "We have a great time. It's become the most enjoyable event we do."

The auction was part of RWBN's monthly luncheon series. The organization, which supports and empowers women by providing networking and educational opportunities, meets monthly for different events.

"We meet the second Wednesday of every month," said member Susan Witrock. "We have a different program each month."

While each event they hold is important, what made this event particularly special was that all of the money raised buy the re-gifting auction went to help out a local non-profit organization.

"Today is a live auction where all the proceeds go to our charity of choice," said Lee Vazquez. "This year it is Home Aides of Rockland. We ask that our members bring an unused gift; we auction it off and write a check to the charity. Last year our charity was People to People and we raised $1,200."

Home Aides of Rockland has been active in the county since 1969 and serves an important role in the community by helping individuals who, without that help, would likely have to move out of their homes.

"We take care of people in their homes who are elderly, disabled, or chronically ill," said Cecilia Halverson, Executive Director of Home Aides of Rockland. "What makes us unique is that we're a non-profit. We're going to put the money [that is received as a result of the RWBN auction] into the Reduced Rate Home Care Program. This program provides financial assistance to clients who do not qualify for Medicaid, yet lack sufficient financial resources to afford needed home care services. It's a wonderful alternative to nursing homes, which are, for the most part, tax supported."

As the auction kicked-off, President Blecker urged those in attendance to "Take out your checkbooks and bid, bid, bid!"

Among the items that were available for purchase were an attractive picture frame, a teapot, and a very comfortable looking pair of slippers, all of which went from unused gifts to fundraising vehicles. The auction also allowed RWBN members to catch up on their own holiday shopping.

All in all, the luncheon and auction were enjoyed by all those in attendance. They not only raised money for a fantastic cause, but also served a great social and economic purpose as well.

"It's a fabulous group and we do a lot of great philanthropic work for the community," said member Pattie Simone. "It's also a great way to network. It's the perfect recipe for success!"