Members Give over $100,000 at 2021 Holiday Giving Gala
Date postedDecember 30, 2021
What started as a standard Holiday Giving Gala ended up being our biggest fundraising event of the association's existence!
Here's how it unfolded:
It had been two years since we last held an in person fundraising event. The ocassion: a philanthropic holiday get together to benefit our charity partner Childhaven. Enter Holiday Giving Gala 2021 held on Wednesday, December 1 at The Motif in Seattle.
Guests mixed and mingled. The holiday giving spirit was in the air.
With 34 auction packages, the silent and live giving featured some hot items.
The program commenced with swearing in our new Board President and board members. Natasha Amira with Avenue5 Residential is our 2022 President, and we welcomed Liz Barnes (Apartment Advantage Staffing), April Syria (Thrive Communities), Erin Heathers (Epic Asset Management), Angie Bentler (Pacific Crest Real Estate), Laura Kitts (Cobu), and Mark Sims (Fikes, not pictured) to our leadership team.
When the live auction started, It was apparent that our industry folks came to bid and donate. Liz Barnes with Apartment Advantage Staffing reflects: "Watching and participating in the friendly banter among colleagues was exciting and exhilarating."
Trying out a new fundraising tactic, WMFHA organized a paddle raise for the charity ask. Liz Barnes remembers that almost every person there raised their paddle at some point.
The best part was reaching the $100,000 mark for Childhaven!
Amanda even stayed overnight at the hotel and with her dog. She enjoyed a comfortable venue and wonderful event.
WMFHA members are generous and kind!
Thanks to everyone who donated, provided an item for auction, and helped organize the event.
The real question is, can we give even more next year? #WMFHAbulous