More than 120 community members gathered at Blue Mermaid for an evening of food, drinks, music and fundraising at Fair Tide’s 2019 Spring Dinner and Auction. The event brought in a record breaking $35,380 which will go a long way in providing housing and supportive services to individuals and families who are homeless.
Fair Tide Board Treasurer and Vice President at Kennebunk Savings Bank, Ryan Pope opened the program portion of the evening by sharing that the Seacoast is a “victim of its own success” with the increasing cost of housing leaving a growing number of people without a roof over their heads. “I believe a community is only as great as its member in greatest need.”
Emily Flinkstrom, Fair Tide’s Executive Director followed up by sharing the organization’s success in meeting expansion goals set forth in their five year strategic growth plan. She urged attendees to counteract the negativity that surrounds us by injecting good into our world, our community and people’s lives.
Auctioneer Bill Zafirson volunteered his time and talents to lead the live auction which brought in almost half the proceeds for the evening. Watching the bid paddles fly, Fair Tide staff were blown away by the excitement and generosity of the crowd.
Thanks to the event’s in-kind donors who contributed food, beverages, auction items, entertainment, labor and event space, nearly all proceeds will go directly to Fair Tide’s housing program. Kennebunk Savings Bank served as the main event underwriter in addition to other sponsors Amy Dutton Home, Bangor Savings, Bank of New Hampshire and York Hospital. The Blue Mermaid donated the event space, main course, planning expertise and waitstaff!
Click on above images to see more! Photos courtesy of Kate & Keith Photography.