Kamala Haughton, Advancement & Alumni Relations Coordinator, shows off a sampling of the prizes available for bidding on in VIU’s Online Auction, which takes place October 17 – 23.
October 13, 2016 - 9:45am
Proceeds go towards student scholarships, awards and learning opportunities
What if you could buy something you really wanted, like a Tofino getaway for two, a nice dinner out or a trip to the spa, and support a student in need at the same time?
That’s just how Vancouver Island University’s (VIU’s) Online Auction works. Starting at 9 am on Monday, October 17, dozens of items, services and trips will be up for auction until 4 pm on Sunday, October 23. All proceeds go towards helping students in need.
“It’s a fun event with prizes that will appeal to everyone, including spa treatments, travel getaways and a trip to a Canucks game,” says Kamala Haughton, Advancement & Alumni Relations Coordinator. “And with Christmas just around the corner, it’s a great place to start your shopping, particularly as 100% of the proceeds go towards student scholarships, awards and bursaries. It’s a win-win.”
There are more than 250 prizes available in a number of different categories, including fine dining experiences, trips to watch your favourite sports teams, fitness classes, and home and garden items like a Samsung 48-inch Smart LED TV.
Most of the winning bid proceeds go into the general Inspiration Fund, which helps top up any scholarship, bursary or awards programs that need a boost. For example, this year, the proceeds from any prizes that Cowichan Valley-area businesses donate will support Cowichan Valley learners taking adult basic education courses.
“Last year we raised $34,000, which was our most ever,” says William Litchfield, Executive Director of University Relations. “Our success is thanks to the many generous community businesses and organizations who support our auction, and by doing so, the success of our students.”
Those looking to spoil themselves or others can snap up a Whistler golf getaway for two, a two-night stay at Pacific Sands Beach Resort in Tofino, a weekend adventure on Gabriola Island or a relaxation and fine dining experience at the Old House Hotel & Spa in Courtenay.
For the sports-oriented, there are scuba lesson packages and martial arts lessons; for those interested in entertainment, there are tickets to shows at the Port Theatre, a wine tour adventure and bowling nights.
Many different departments at VIU have also donated prizes for the Online Auction, ranging from treats from the baking program, to fine dining at the Discovery Room, to guest speaker services.
To learn more or bid on items, visit viu.ca/auction.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Jenn McGarrigle, Communications Officer, Vancouver Island University
P: 250.740.6288 | C: 250.619.6860 | E: jenn.mcgarrigle@viu.ca | T: @VIUNews
Tags: Announcements
