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Home > Support NMS > Annual Fund > Auction > Auction History AUCTION HISTORY In the fall of 1976, New Morning School consisted of thirty-two children and committed parents and staff. Previous fundraisers had been tried in the school's short three-year history, but parents knew a fresh idea was needed. Parent Clyde Yokum provided the spark when he suggested an auction of new merchandise and services. Each family was asked to gather donations from four businesses. Completely organized by parents, the first auction was held at the Mayflower Meeting House. All items were auctioned via a live auction. Of note was the antique feather duster that sold for $30. That was the large item. The school made $1,700 on that first auction. It has been bigger and better ever since. Auction profits continued to escalate annually -- $4,000, $8,000, and then after a few years, $28,000, $36,000, $50,000, $97,000; in 1999, $115,500; and in 2000, $130,000! Interestingly, there were only two auctions deemed unsuccessful. They were the only auctions that were not combined with a meal or food. Dan Stall, of The Auction Team, Inc., was hired in 1986 to function as auctioneer and adviser. Dan Stall's assistance resulted in packaging items together for auction, scripting all live auction items in the catalog, upgrading the catalog, adding a super silent auction and many other improvements. With his vision and considerable experience the auction continues to thrive. We continue to make adjustments toward a more profitable auction. In 1990, with the knowledge that we had to work smarter, not harder, we added two corporate sponsors. These were businesses that, in exchange for a sizable donation, were recognized as co-sponsors. In 1992, the Partners in Success program was created, giving businesses and individuals several different levels of support from which to choose. In 1993, we upgraded and added several new sponsors. We also implemented the Adopt-a-Gift program and signature pages, which were both great successes. The 2004 Auction drew 600 guests and raised $140,000. The New Morning School Auction is an inspiring story of a small group of families reaching a goal that just a few years prior would have appeared impossible. Outsiders are amazed that such a small number of families can create a fundraiser of such proportion. The Auction is living evidence of the Margaret Mead quote. "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." The New Morning School parents and children appreciate all those who assist us in our mission of educating "one child at a time." |
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