Generosity was in abundance at the Fall Dinner Auction held November 13, 2021 held at St. Mary Church in Chelsea. A tradition for 34 years, the Fall Auction is a major fundraiser for the Center. The evening started off with appetizers while guests browsed the over 40 silent auction items and 15 live auction items. Dinner, by The Movable Feast Catering, pleased the crowd with their delectable creation. Silent auction items were a huge success, however, the live auction items proved to be the highlight of the evening. Bidders bid back and forth for the items they wanted. Star items, which included a new snow plowing machine, an outing for the residents, and camp for a resident, brought the evening to an end while raising a substantial amount for the care of the residents of the Center.
Frank Fike honored at dinner
Honoree Frank Fike was bestowed the acknowledgement of Founder, as he was one of the first Community Advisory Council members. His dedication, along with the others on the first council, established the vision which has allowed the Center to achieve so much since those beginning years. Mr. Fike, as the Head of Corporate Banking in Ann Arbor, brought his knowledge and experience of running business activities to the Center. During his tenure on the Council, Mr. Fike helped to oversee changes in the Center due to new State Department rulings and changes in regulations. St. Louis School changed its name to St Louis Center for Exceptional Boys and Adults and found solutions to integrating the new regulations as the residents began attending public school. Through these processes and the advisement of the Council, a very sound foundation was laid for the future.
Thank you to our sponsors and committee members
The Annual Dinner and Charity Auction would not be possible without the help of our incredible Sponsors and Auction Committee Members. Michael O’Quinn, CFP, AAMS, Financial Advisor from Edward Jones, thanks the clergy, employees, and volunteers of the Center, by his Silver Sponsorship. Another proud Silver Sponsor is Donna Hrozencik and Mark Ouimet.Donna is also a dedicated CAC member and sits on the Auction Committee. The Auction Committee worked tirelessly for months to make this event happen. Last year the Auction was help online due to the restrictions set in place from Covid making this year extra special. The committee, co-chaired by Eileen Augustine and Barbara Boylan Lewis and advised by Kathi Neuman, is made up of 14 members and many volunteers. Together they were able to procure donations for the silent and live auctions from over 70 businesses and individuals. St. Louis Center would like to thank everyone who worked hard to make this event a memorable success.
A moment to remember a special friend, Karen McGrath
The Center would also like to take a moment to remember Karen McGrath, who passed away in October, 2021. Karen was the Aunt to a resident at the Center. For many years Karen has helped the Center by making numerous baskets for the auction. She had a heart that was full of love and giving, and she will be missed by all.
