Author: Dawna Jace Peters

Leslie County 4-H has traditionally had an Annual Silent Auction for over 10 years. In 2020 we were unable to have the auction due to Covid-19. The purpose of the event has been to increase awareness and raise money for 4-H related costs. Leslie County is a rural county with the median income for a household being $31,627 with 25.8% of families below the poverty line. Therefore, for youth to be able to fully participate in our programs we must raise money for scholarships to sponsor them.

 The auction was held directly after the Parade of Lights which is a very busy night for Leslie County. 60 or more people were in attendance, many of those attending being new. Current 4-H members in the county were present. In addition to the Silent Auction a concession stand was held by current 4-H members. The 4-H Silent Auction items donated were displayed on tables around the walls so that attendees could bid on them at their leisure. Several items were live auctioned.  The Silent Auction items were awarded at the end of the night to the highest bidder. Donations were received from over 30 local businesses and other residents in the community.

Almost $2,000.00 was raised for Leslie County 4-H. As always, we are both thankful and grateful for the volunteerism, participation and generosity shown to our 4-H youth. We are truly touched by the huge outpouring of donations from so many residents and businesses.