Someone once said a community's character shows itself amid crises.
The desire among community members to help was clear at Catholic Family Services' 26th annual charity dinner and auction. Executive Director Karen Richard said the fundraiser generally brings in around $40,000. This year, proceeds are expected to be approximately $48,000.
The event featured donations from a number of different businesses. Cocktails and dinner took place during the silent auction and were followed by a live auction and dance.
Auction items included a 10-karat white gold ring, furniture and decor items, gift certificates, food, event tickets and numerous others. Darwin Atcheynum sculpted a soapstone piece called Healing Hand.
Nic Fransoo of Q98 hosted the event and dignitaries included Bishop Albert Thévenot.
A new feature this year, Richard said, was selling 100 envelopes for $100 each with a one in 10 chance of winning.
A list of services provided by the agency are listed on the Catholic Family Services website. These include counselling, transitional skills, family support, professional development, support for those exposed to domestic violence and others. Some programs are offered with support from government ministries. Payment for services is based on a sliding scale depending on financial circumstances.
Richard said the agency will work with anyone regardless of religious affiliation.
The agency was originally funded by people within the Catholic community, Richard said, but over the years funding has come from the community as a whole.
Richard thanked the community, and encouraged everyone to patronize the businesses that support Catholic Family Services.
“Trauma is not new to our community, and the tragic loss of so many of our youth only underscores the need for the service we provide,” Richard said during a speech.
“In direct response to these tragic events, our agency provided over 500 hours in support and counselling in our high schools, to other family and community members affected.”
Richard said over the previous fiscal year, Catholic Family Services has provided service to more than 3,000 individuals.
