FARMINGTON —
The United Way of the Tri-Valley Area hosted the Great Charity Auction on Nov. 14 at Franklin Memorial Hospital. The auction drew more than 125 people and with the help of event sponsors, auction donors, bidders and in-kind contributors, the event raised more than $10,000.

All net proceeds will go towards the United Way’s 2009-2010 Annual Campaign. This year’s campaign goal is to improve 12,000 lives – which equates to raising $360,500.

The evening’s highlights included the Heads and Tails game (participants purchased tickets to be able to win, by a coin toss, a hand crafted jelly cabinet made by United Way of the Tri-Valley Area board member Rick Dorey), as well as the Early Bird Social. The social was an opportunity for attendees to reconnect with old friends while previewing silent and live auction items.

Executive Director Lisa Laflin said “The Great Charity Auction was a success because of the many volunteers behind the scenes. United Way Auction Committee chair Peggy Willihan did a tremendous job coordinating the fundraiser, making this a signature event that people will look forward to each year. Auctioneers Rodney and Wendy Allen helped generate enthusiasm and high bids, and the Syncopations and Josh Hiltz and Steven Yardley provided the evening’s special entertainment.”