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Photo credit @lainiehillerphotography
“In 2014, we raised $28,122. Our committee chair, Chad Harding, had a vision to help us raise six figures,” shares Andrea Kent, executive director. “With a lot of planning, strategies, and most importantly, great people, we raised the bar. To have raised over $200,000 to serve youth and families in this community is absolutely remarkable.”
The goals for this event have grown as the Club has continued to expand its services to meet the needs of children and families in the community. In the last 18 months, the Club opened a new site at J.W. Smith Elementary in partnership with Bemidji Area Schools and added 5 full-time positions to support essential operations. This school year alone, 259 registered members have been impacted by programming, culminating in 11,638 visits.
“We are absolutely in awe of the support from our community!” said Andrea Kent, executive director. “Our guests, sponsors, and auction contributors are truly game changers for Club kids, providing necessary funds for daily academic, social, and emotional programs, funds for a safe and fun Clubhouse, funds for healthy foods, gardening, and intentional mentoring. We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love for our kids and mission.”
The proceeds from the gala make up approximately 14% of the overall Club budget. The Club has received significant grant funds in recent years and endeavors to take advantage of as many grant opportunities as possible, while maintaining relationships and stewarding local donors who are the heart of the Club’s financial success.
“This Club wouldn’t exist without the dedicated support of our community, from our monthly donors to our business partners. Our collaborations with other local nonprofits are key to providing even more access for Club families,” shares Emily Fairchild, resource development director. “We’re grateful to our board members who ensure we run the Club in a fiscally sound manner, with a diverse portfolio. It’s all about ensuring that the Club will be here to serve families for generations to come.”
Featured guests and speakers included 2024 Youth of the Year, Rowan Welch, Jordan Mann, Keynote Speaker, and Michele Brielmaier, Board Secretary.
During the event, the annual Sue Engel Spirit of the Mission Award was presented to Cindy Serratore by Steve Engel in recognition and thanks for Cindy’s 15 years of service to the Club. There was an online and live auction with items donated by many supporters of the Club, Invest in Success auction, and fundraising game.
Many thanks to the event committee and staff. Special mention to major sponsors: Sanford Health, Mark Sand & Gravel Co, Accra, Arrow Printing Inc, Dondelinger Chevrolet, events + design by briana lynn, First National Bank Bemidji, Hampton Inn & Suites, Knife River Materials, and Paul Bunyan Communications.
Donors and supporters of this event help fund all of the programs at the Boys & Girls Club. Thanks to donors like you, children build positive relationships with caring staff who provide mentorship and homework assistance. Your investments ensure youth can engage in STEM activities and art exploration. Gala supporters ensure that Club kids have access to healthy after-school snacks, and transportation from school to the Club. Donors also help provide children with opportunities to volunteer, garden, and learn how to avoid harmful behaviors such as bullying and drug and alcohol use.
Ace on the Lake
Jerry and Vicky Younk
Jimmy John’s
LaValley Industries
Minnesota Autism Center
Netzer’s Floral
Northwoods Lumber Company
Otter Tail Power Company
PotlatchDeltic
TruStar Federal Credit Union