Mesa Academy’s first Knight of Charity and Hilarity Auction at the Las Sendas Trailhead far exceeded expectations, with more than $22,000 raised.
A small and dedicated PTO team had worked ceaselessly from January to April 1 to raise this record amount for the Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies (MAAS).
“We had a team of 10 parent volunteers go out and solicit prizes,” stated PTO co-president and principal auction driver Phuong Abramowski, from Red Mountain Ranch. “We raised donations valued at a total of $70,000 from the local business community, resulting in close to 300 items.”
The contributions were amazing, from three sets of top dollar orthodontic braces, to vacation trips and golf packages, to numerous restaurant, beauty and wellness services. Bidders were getting a buzz out of the opportunities.
Before the Knight of Charity started, the MAAS PTO had already generated above $10,000 through their online auction. “It’s been a little crazy around here,” said PTO leader Phuong, radiating with excitement. “What started with so much doubt turned out so fabulous.”
Ann Belfield, a PTO member from Las Sendas, was the engineer behind the Internet marketing approach. Drawing from her professional management and planning expertise, Ann had the vision for the concept, and pushed for the Internet auction.
“I got really excited about the Internet possibilities and explained to the PTO why it is so important,” Ann recalled. “A lot of people did not understand the potential at first, and were unsure of the auction altogether, but I thought we could raise between 15 and 20 grand.”
Soon, Ann immersed herself into designing invitations and banners, while also obtaining visuals from sponsors. Ann and Phuong spent countless hours on the computer together, each one working from her home terminal, updating the world of online bidding. Parents could preview items and place bids for weeks before the actual event.
When the day came, informed bidders entered the auction with primed expectations. Most parents had already developed a keen eye for their objects of desire on the presentation tables at the gorgeous Trailhead Members Club. Auction guests also truly enjoyed Red, White and Brew’s delicious buffet with Italian specialties.
PTO treasurer Paula Wolflig, from Las Sendas, who had worked out the arrangements with the Trailhead events department, felt validated by the marvelous attendance. “It was a lot of work, but it definitely paid off,” she said to Dr. Macri, who had donated chiropractic services to the auction.
“This was our first adult-only event since the Mesa Academy opened its doors in the fall of 2006,” Paula explained. “I don’t know how Phuong is still standing up, because she didn’t go to bed last night, preparing for this.”
Event planner and PTO member Vivi Somphon shone in her flashy red dress. She had created the title and entertainment theme, and was busily monitoring the flow of events. Comedian Armon Williams provided a stand-up routine and emceed the auction. Kaizen Martial Arts studio sent its show team, presenting karate moves in tune with music. The Trailhead provided the ideal ambience.
“The Trailhead turned out to be the least expensive and most beautiful venue for our auction,” Ann commented. “And we were looking for a location close by.”
“This is just gorgeous here,” Phuong added, pointing out the fabulous sunset vista. The staff was extremely accommodating, and went above and beyond our requests.”
Principal Robert Crispin, who had helped set up the sound system, was entirely pleased. “The PTO has done a fabulous job,” he said. “A big, huge thanks to them and Phuong. They have rallied the parents so well to raise funds.”
From the proceeds, the principal was hoping to add a shade structure and other improvements to his school. After the Knight of Charity, he had definitely come closer to fulfilling his wishes.