Y auction to benefit local members

Each year, the YMCA of Callaway County's scholarship program enables families and children throughout the county to benefit from its health and wellness programs.

Organizers of the 13th annual YMCA Auction and Dinner on Saturday are hoping for a successful event to help continue that tradition.

According to a press release, in 2010, the YMCA of Callaway County provided more than 500 families with more than $32,000 in funds - a 35 percent increase from the amount awarded in 2009. Sports and Recreation Director Sara McDaniel said the Y is hoping to raise another $25,000-$30,000 this year as well.

"That's what the money from the auction goes to," McDaniel said. "(Through the scholarship program) families or single adults can apply for membership or program registration and get up to 90 percent of fees covered.

"We feel it's important to the community because of the wide number of kids and families that are able to participate."

The doors for this year's auction open at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, with dinner at 6:30 and the live auction starting at around 7:30 p.m.

"Some of our live items are an autographed Gary Pinkel football, and autographed Mike Anderson basketball, a week's stay in Colorado and artwork by Terry Martin, Mark Koch and Scott Kronk," McDaniel said. "We've got some birthday party packages, some golf packages, a lot of things donated by local businesses."

Some of the silent auction items include Cardinals tickets, tickets to Silver Dollar City and Big Surf Water Park, baskets put together by area businesses and baked goods.

"There's just a wide variety of stuff," McDaniel said. "There's something for everyone."

She said she would encourage area residents to come out and participate in the auction and learn more about the programs the YMCA has to offer.

"As far as the auction, it's a really fun event and a great way to show your support for the community," McDaniel said. "If you're unable to come to the auction, you are always welcome to come to our facility, walk around and take a tour, see what we have to offer."

Tickets for the dinner auction are $45 and are available either in advance at the YMCA of Callaway County, located at 1715 Wood St. in Fulton, or at the door. For more information call the YMCA at (573) 642-1065.