Picture this – a gathering of philanthropic community members on a beautiful fall evening, enjoying drinks and delicious foods, all with the purpose of supporting a beloved local non-profit through bidding on exciting auction items. But what does it truly take to plan a large-scale fundraising event? Kids ‘N’ Stuff Children’s Museum Executive Director, Katie Gigliotti, took a bit of time to explain the work behind the 17th Annual Bids ‘N’ Stuff Fundraiser.
Planning started just weeks after the 2024 fundraiser was completed. The six volunteer committee members plus Kids ‘N’ Stuff staff took the time to debrief and understand the strengthens and weaknesses of the completed event. Then in early 2025, the procurement of items and logistics began! It can take months for a single auction item to come to fruition for the event.
Every committee tackles the event differently, this year part of the committee tackled auction items, and the others handled the logistics – location, food, drinks, marketing, and more, all while securing sponsors.
But if it’s a fundraiser, why do you need sponsors? Planning a quality event with food, drinks, rentals, marketing, and more costs upward of $10,000 a year. As this is the only fundraiser the non-profit has in a year, it is crucial that the funds raised during the event support the needs of the museum. This year’s sponsors are Oaklawn Hospital, Greater Albion Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Peter & Becky Mitchell, Team1 Plastics, Homestead Savings Bank, Michigan Automotive Compressor Inc., Marshall Community Credit Union, Battle Creek Tile & Mosaic Co. Inc., and Jeff Fielder and Dr. Karen Garcia.
How do you get the items for the auction? Auction items are a mixture of donations and purchased goods. Numerous come from the committee and board’s personal connections whether they are a business owner or know someone willing to support. Various local businesses support the endeavor with donations. Determining what is included in the auction is fine balance between baskets and physical items to experiences.
Wonderland This year, you can expect the same amazing experience filled with wonder, just in a new venue! With the changes at Stoffer Plaza, the committee had to pivot locations to the Science Atrium at Albion College, on Saturday September 13th from 6PM – 9PM. Expect great food, fun games, and exciting auction items. All are welcome to join with every little bit helping the non-profit. Tickets are on sale now, and available for individuals, couples, groups of four, and tables. Visit kidsnstuff.org/bids-n-stuff.html to learn more and grab your ticket before they’re gone!