The Hocking Valley Community Hospital Foundation netted more than $50,000 during its 2023 Bids & Brews Benefit, the largest amount earned from the annual fundraiser in its history.
Hundreds gathered at The Poston Manor & Event Barn for a Kentucky Derby-themed evening with silent and live auction, horse racing, live music and food and beverages.
“Our auction has continued to grow each year. This year we had record-breaking support from our community,” Latricia Johnston, HVCH Chief Public Relations Officer, said. “Our goal for the evening was to raise $35,000 in auction items alone, and we made our goal. We would like to thank the Kilbarger family for the donated use of The Poston Manor for our event, which helped us take our fundraising to new heights.”
Over the past 37 years, the HVCH Foundation’s auction and golf events have raised $2 million for charitable purposes at HVCH.
This year’s Bids & Brews Benefit featured 68 items in the silent and live auctions. Food trucks and a beer garden were open throughout the evening, and Rick Barr performed for the crowd before the live auction. A beach vacation donated by HVCH Board Member Ruth Ann Spatar was also raffled during the event.
“It was amazing to see this year’s crowd of supporters,” Kyle Walker, HVCH Foundation Board President, said. “Our reserved tables sold out and there were many more in attendance. We are so thankful to everyone who donated items for the auction, for all our volunteers who helped before and during the event, and for all those who bought items and participated in horse racing. Every donation helps further the Foundation’s mission of supporting our local hospital.”
“I could not be happier with the turnout that we had for our event. The support from the community was overwhelming, and it was great to see so many people in attendance. There are not enough words to express my sincere appreciation to all those who were involved in the planning and preparation for the 2023 HVCH Foundation Auction. We are looking forward to planning for 2024,” HVCH President and CEO Stacy Gabriel commented.