In December of 2019 we came together as an auction team to raise money for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) in Atlanta, Georgia at the Mayor’s Masked Ball. This was the largest team of Black Auctioneers to ever come together to raise money for an organization. We came from Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Texas, and Virginia.
Now let’s get to the cause. The UNCF believes, “A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste.” UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally-recognized pipeline of under-represented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly-qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.
They hosted approximately 1400 guests, awarded numerous scholarships, provided notable speakers, held a live auction, special appeal, and ended the night with an incredible performance by Charlie Wilson. The fundraising goal was broken that night raising nearly $1.35 million. These funds will provide scholarships to students attending historically black colleges and universities across the US.
The night itself was incredible. Today, this night has so much more symbolism than previously realized. Right now our country is facing tough times. We are standing for one another in ways we have never done before. This moment that many are seeing as divisive – we are recognize the unity. Now, more than ever, we stand stronger in our desires to serve organizations committed to civil rights, human rights, and social justice.
The auction industry is one that is still learning to be inclusive. I am happy to be a member of the many continuously advocating for reform within the industry. I am proud to serve organizations close to my heart and be a voice of understanding, compassion, and resonance. As we did in December, and many times before, we strive to support spaces that are creating equity for all. #BlackLivesMatter, #Brownpride, #LoveisLove, #BacktheBLue #WithLiberty&JusticeforAll #
Learn more about the UNCF at www.uncf.org.