Even though St. Pius X High School had to hold its annual fundraising auction online this year because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, the event, held March 30-April 4, was deemed a success, bringing in about $82,000 during difficult circumstances, said organizer Melissa Hartmann, the school’s director of events.
“It was fabulous,” she said. “We were humbled and extremely gratified with everybody’s participation.”
Organizers had hoped to raise $100,000, though, so the school is still accepting donations for the fundraiser, which was called the St. Pius Legacy Gala Virtual Auction this year. Prior to the pandemic, plans for the fundraiser included the usual huge gathering, food and entertainment, along with the auction.
Instead a silent auction was held with bids submitted online this year.
The online bidding proved to be surprisingly competitive, though, Hartmann said.
“People who have called us have said they enjoyed the auction,” she said. “It was more exciting than expected.”
Hartmann said the auction item that brought in the largest bid was a trip to Hawaii that went for $3,500.
Despite the relative success of the online version of the event, Hartmann said organizers hope for a traditional gala and auction, with a large crowd in attendance, for next year.
“We will go back to an on-campus event,” Hartmann said. “People enjoy coming to campus and seeing each other.”
Hartmann said the annual auction provides funding for the Catholic school’s needs.
“Last year, the focus was raising money for our Wellness Center (which has been completed),” she said. “This year’s is for a chair lift that will go to the second floor, to the gym. It will allow more people to go to more events.”
Hartmann said donations may be sent to St. Pius X High School, Attn: Gala, 1030 St. Pius Drive, Crystal City, 63028.
