The Friends Program has been matching volunteers with community members in need since 1975. Over the past decade, its fundraising auction has been an annual tradition for the Who's Who of Concord. This year will be no different. Fresh off a move to a new downtown location and the launch of its new logo/slogan, the Friends Program is poised for a big year of fundraising.
This year's auction theme is “Sit Back and Relax.” Eighteen Adirondack chairs have been created and painted in unique designs by a host of local artists. Lock in the winning bid on one of these babies, and you'll be kicking back in comfort and style.
Aside from the Adirondack chairs, there is original artwork up for auction, several “Artist's Choice” items including a one-of -a-kind commissioned sculpture, and a variety of specialty items. These range from Red Sox or Patriots tickets to a Key West vacation, or a chance to name your own drink, sandwich or ice cream at a variety of downtown eateries.
Many of the auction items were showcased at last week's Art Walk, which culminated with Bob and Sylvia Larsen unveiling their signature drink, “The Propeller,” at the Granite Restaurant. The Larsens won the chance to name a drink at last year's auction, and another such chance is available this year.
Friends Program Director of Development Angela Sepela is thrilled by the ability of the people of Concord to come together and make the auction happen.
“The thing about this event is that it takes a community to pull it off,” Sepela said. “Between the volunteers, the planning committee, the artists, the downtown merchants and the Friends Program staff, if it weren't for this group of people, the event wouldn't be possible.”
Admission to the auction will run you $40 and includes a full dinner and dessert. Last year's auction raised over $98,000, which goes a long way toward funding the Friends Program in its efforts to unite the community through volunteerism.
Of course, the Friends Program is really four programs. There's the Foster Grandparent program, which sets up retirees with volunteer opportunities in youth-service organizations like schools or group homes, where they can pass on their wisdom to younger generations. The Junior-Senior Friends program links at-risk youth with an older mentor to hang out with. The Retired Senior Volunteer Program matches seniors 55 and older with volunteer positions at places like the Boys and Girls Club and Concord Hospital. And there's the Emergency Housing Program, which offers shelter to homeless families and helps them get back on your feet.
There are two common themes running through these four programs. One is that they both exemplify a community's compassion and willingness to help out those in need. The other is that without the money raised at the annual Friends Auction, these programs simply could not operate. What better way to support community service in Concord than to raise money and get one-of-a-kind prizes?
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