The Sussex County Association of Realtors’ annual auction, organized this year by the new nonprofit foundation, the Community Service Foundation, raised more than $37,000.
More than 200 guests and volunteers helped raise money from live and silent auctions.
All funds raised go toward buying winter coats, toys and clothes for the Cape Region’s neediest children.
Elegant hors d’oeuvres were passed around as guests masqueraded as pirates, gathering Oct. 22, at Independence Hall near Millsboro.
“The real estate community takes the needs of our local community to heart. One of the ways that we can show our appreciation to those around us is to contribute financially to the betterment of the community through this auction,” said Adriane Gallagher, who is also president of the foundation and rental manager for Prudential Gallo Realtors in Lewes.
This year the Realtors’ association opened the event to the public, but the auction still featured a lively and longstanding competition among agencies to produce the best auction packages – all gifts donated by real estate agencies and local businesses.
“Every year, we’re encouraged and humbled by the generosity of our member Realtors, especially during the holiday season,” said Ruth Briggs King, executive vice president of the Realtors’ association and newly elected representative of the 37th House District.
Beneficiaries of the auction in past years include Habitat for Humanity, the Howard T. Ennis School, the Sussex Consortium and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware.
“We were very pleased with the attendance. The venue was really conducive to our function – everyone had a great time,” said Gallagher.
With the money raised, Cape Region real estate agents will shop at Kmart Tuesday, Dec. 1, to buy gifts for local families, followed by a group gift-wrapping in mid-December.
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