GATHERING PARTY OVERVIEW
Gathering Parties are parent/caregiver-only events held for each grade in the months leading up to the Gala Auction. The Parties build relationships while raising awareness and support for the Gala Auction.
THANK YOU TO OUR GATHERING PARTY HOSTS
Tami & Matt Fahnlander, Caitlin & Tasewell Fox, Kate & Brian Franko, Lisa & Tim Hanrahan, Kristin & Andrew Herrara, Rebecca & Shawn Hunt, Brenna & Brant Kahler, Maureen & Matt Kajewski, Al & Margaret Khan, Lynndi & Matt Koester, Jill & Curtis Maroueilli, Megan & Ryan Mortier, Alex & Jim Munro, Emily & Jeff Naylor, Katie Naday, Stevie O'Meara, Katie & Matt Parmenter, Ashley & Patrick Pannkuk, Meghan & Tom Satterstrom, Kaela & Mitch Smith, Brooke & John Tunink, Sarah & Shannon Swenson, Kristina & Nick Warnemunde, and Beth & Aaron Widmer
GATHERING PARTY DONATIONS
Donations made at the Gathering Parties are used to underwrite the costs to produce the Gala including auction items and decor. This ensures that all the funds generated on the night of the Gala go directly to the Gala's project.
Each Gathering Party will be recognized as the sponsor of one of the Live Auction items and at least one silent auction basket.
Gathering Party guests are encouraged to make a donation, but are not required. Donations can be monetary and/or an item that goes with the Silent Auction basket theme.
MONETARY DONATIONS
Online monetary donations are made through Handbid, which is the same platform that is used to purchase Gala tickets. Past users may need to log-in with their user name and password.
Access Handbid here: https://events.handbid.com/auctions/2026-garden-soiree/donations
Cash or checks can be turned in at the Gathering Party or directed to the Parish Office. Please include the grade(s) that you'd like your donation to be directed to.
NEW | SILENT AUCTION BASKETS
Each Gathering Party will also gather items for a Silent Auction basket. Please consider contributing new items to your grades basket. Items can be brought to the Gathering Party or directed to the Parish Office.
Early Education | Rainy Day: Games, books, puzzles, coloring books, cozy blankets, craft activities, or gift cards to favorite indoor places.
Kindergarten | Summer Fun: Favorite things to do in the summer including gift cards to favorite places. Items could include water toys, towels, beach bags, sunscreen, chalk, bubbles, or items for adults like picnic gear, tumblers, BBQ tools, or cocktail mixers.
1st Grade | Baking Day: Spatulas, whisks, measuring cups, cookie cutters, aprons, tea towels, measuring bowls, silcone molds, pans, mixes, paper products, specilaity products, recipe cards, cookbooks or a gift card to your favorite bakery.
2nd Grade | Road Trip: Car games, supplies, or gift cards perfect for a road trip. Ideas include portable chargers, car organizers, emergency kits, travel pillows, blankets, insulated mugs, snacks, travel games, or custom maps.
3rd Grade | Let's Go to the Movies: Items for the best movie night like popcorn and special seasonings, popcorn bowls, blankets, candy or a gift card to your favorite movie theater.
4th Grade | Best of Valley Junction: Items, treats or gift cards from your favorite Valley Junction businesses.
5th Grade | Best of the Historic East Village: Items, treats or gift cards from your favorite East Village businesses.
6th Grade | Spring Cleaning: Items, treats or gift cards to refresh your home. Ideas include quality microfiber cloths, Scrubb Daddy sponges, scented candles, essential oils, nice hand soaps, organizational caddies or storage.
7th Grade | Cocktail Party: Spirits, mixers, glassware, garnishes, or even fancy umbrellas.
8th Grade | New Driver: Gas gift cards, wiper fluid, ice scraper, gift card to car washes, emergency kits, jumper cables, flashlight, first aid kit, phone mount, car charger, air fresheners, seat organizer, keychains, or car decals.