When my friend called me last year urging me to come with her to the SCHI Chinese Auction, I hesitated. I hardly get to go out, even though there are so many events and fundraisers advertised every day. On the other hand, as the nights were getting longer and the weather warmer, I knew I could use a dose of fun and inspiration.
“I’ll come,” I said impulsively.
“You won’t regret it,” my friend responded.
And I didn’t.
From the moment I entered the impressive SCHI building, I was swept up in the palpable energy and excitement. I had never seen the building before, and we walked through the hallways admiring the colorful bulletin boards and classrooms packed with therapy equipment.
The hundreds of women and girls at the event browsed the spectacular showcase of prizes, placing tickets in the prizes of their choice. Some of the enticing prizes included a children’s bedroom set, a women’s shopping package, and a luxurious leather couch (which my friends actually won!).
We made our way to the huge tent set up on the school’s sprawling grounds, admiring the tasteful décor. I greeted friends and family and we settled ourselves down to enjoy the program. Of course, we first stacked our plates high with delicious food, barbecue style, courtesy of Greenwald Caterers. We enjoyed the delicious sushi bar as well.
The sounds of many women enjoying themselves became a low buzz as the emcee mounted the podium and delivered opening remarks. We were then treated to an incredible live performance by well-known performer and comedian Leah Forster. Leah had us laughing and crying as she sang and acted with her signature flair. A moving slideshow and a speech by a mother of SCHI rounded out the evening.
I returned home, refreshed and energized by the beautiful evening. Most importantly, while having fun, I had the opportunity to give to the special children of SCHI. After attending the event and viewing the school and what they do, I know I will be at this year’s Chinese Auction once again.
The SCHI 2012 Chinese Auction will take placetonight, at 7:30 p.m., at the SCHI campus, located at 345 Oak Street in Lakewood, NJ.
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