Party it Up with SPARCC Virtual “Live” Auction

Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is throwing an unprecedented virtual party on Friday, April 3, 2020 in lieu of its originally planned “physical” 40th Anniversary Ruby Celebration Gala. The virtual event entails a day of online auction and a cutting-edge, live stream interaction on Facebook and Instagram, with no admission fee.

The online auction will be open for bidding starting at 10 AM on Friday, April 3rd but the live stream interaction will only take place from 7:30 PM to 10 PM, the time the original Gala would have taken place. The entire social world, however, is invited to this virtual gala and guests are encouraged to socialize with each other in a “chat room” environment and participate in the auction through cell phone or computer, which will provide a robust interaction equal to or above that of an “in-person” event.

“This is our first time attempting to host a totally-virtual fundraising event and we are excited about the possibilities,” said SPARCC President & CEO, Jessica Hays. “Together we are building a stronger community, and we are hopeful that many will join us for this fun, yet safe and responsible, virtual social-gathering to help support our 24-hour services.”

All of the exclusive auction packages have been graciously donated by SPARCC supporters. Viewer’s presence, support and participation will raise critical funding to help SPARCC provide life-saving, free and confidential programs and services, 24-hours a day, for survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their children.

Community sponsors include: Presenting Sponsor: Lawrence P. Castellani Family Foundation; Ruby Sponsors: Barbara & Tom Gardner; Susan & Alan Graf , Garland & Jim Doyle, Community Foundation of Sarasota, McCarver & Moser Jewelers, Jennifer & Roger Holland, E-Dee & Michael Murphy/Shirley & Pat Wulf, The Lynne Koy Group; Platinum Sponsors: Cathy Bachand & Cindy Thelen, Kimberly Pelyk, Sarasota Scene Magazine; Gold Sponsors: Sue Wilson/Morgan Stanley, SunTrust Private Wealth Management, JoAnn Heisen, Observer Media Group, Admiral Travel, and many other community sponsors and donors.

The link to the auction and instructions will be updated on www.sparcc.net/events. Follow SPARCC Facebook and Instagram @SPARCC_Sarasota for more updated information.