What is the school auction, and why do we have it? 

The auction is St. Benedict’s largest fundraiser of the year and one of our most loved community events. It brings together parents, parishioners, alumni, and friends for an evening of celebration, connection, and giving. 

All funds raised support our school’s operating budget, including classroom resources, teacher support, technology, school building improvements, and tuition assistance.  

Who does the auction benefit? 

Every student at St. Benedict. Your participation directly supports the programs and experiences that make our school such a special place for our kids. 

What is required of each St. Benedict School family? 

Every St. Benedict family is responsible for fulfilling a $250 procurement requirement. This requirement is essential to building a strong catalog of items and experiences for the auction.   

Procurement forms are due March 13th, 2026. Each family must complete a procurement form by this due date; procurement forms can be found here (insert link to procurement form). If you have a physical item, it needs to be dropped off at school by March 31st.  

What does “procurement” mean? 

Procurement simply means contributing an item, experience, or monetary amount to help build our auction catalog. 

You can fulfill your procurement by: 

• Creating a themed basket (sports, gourmet treats, craft supplies, family game night, etc.)  

• Hosting or co-hosting a Pick-a-Party for kids or adults (Backyard Movie Night, Tea Party, Wine and Paint Night, etc.)  

• Donating a cash Buy-In contribution toward a larger live auction package (weekend getaways, wine tours, dining experiences)  

• Securing a donated item or service from a business (gift cards, experiences, services, etc.) 

• Personally donating an item or experience (vacation rentals, event tickets, wine, etc.)  

What is the difference between procuring and donating? 

• Procuring: You ask a business or individual to contribute an item or service to the auction. 

• Donating: You personally give an item, experience, or cash contribution. 

Both count toward your family’s $250 requirement and both help strengthen our auction catalog. 

How do Pick-a-Parties work? 

Pick-a-Parties are themed, community events offered by families for a set price per attendee. Instead of bidding, families purchase a “spot” until the event sells out. 

Pick-a-Parties are extremely popular and fully count toward your procurement. If multiple families host together, each family contributes their $250 portion toward the event.  

Examples from past years include: 

• Kids’ Tea Party (a longtime favorite) 

• Backyard Movie Night 

• Cycle Saloon 

• Family Scavenger Hunt 

• Wine and Paint Night 

What are Buy-In Packages? 

These are pre-designed donation opportunities created by the auction committee. Families contribute their $250 procurement toward a specific package, which helps the school secure a high-value live auction item like a weekend getaway or special experience.  

Does wine for the Wine Toss count toward procurement? 

No. Wine donations help stock this fun auction-night game, but they do not fulfill your procurement requirement.  

What is sponsorship, and who can become a sponsor? 

A sponsorship is a financial gift from a family or business that helps offset the auction event costs. In return, sponsors receive visibility through event signage, printed materials, and digital promotion. Sponsorships strengthen our fundraising impact. Anyone can sponsor families, relatives, friends, parishioners, or businesses of any size.  

What are teacher tickets, and why do we sell them? 

Families can purchase a ticket for a teacher or staff member to attend the auction at no cost to them. This is a beloved tradition and a meaningful way to show appreciation and ensure our teachers and staff can join the celebration. 

What is included in my auction ticket?  

• An evening out with St. Ben’s parents and community 

• Passed Champagne, Appetizers and a Seated Dinner 

• Table wine 

• Access to the social hour, raffles, wine toss, and entertainment 

• The opportunity to participate in live auction bidding or Fund-a-Need (completely optional) 

Most importantly, your presence is what matters. There is no expectation to spend beyond the ticket price. Come enjoy the night, connect with other families, and be part of the community celebration.  

What can I expect the night of the auction? 

The evening is festive, friendly, and welcoming. A typical event includes:
• Social hour with drinks and appetizers
• Raffles and games including Wine Toss
• Live auction & Dinner
• Fund-a-Need moment
• Photos, music, and community connection
• Optional after-party fun 

The goal is for families to relax, have fun, and come together in support of our school. 

Do I have to attend the auction to participate? 

No. While we encourage every family to attend, you can still fulfill your procurement requirement, contribute to sponsorship, and participate in bidding online if you cannot attend. 

Who do I contact with procurement, sponsorship, or other auction related questions?