2021 Mid-Winter Ball held virtually
On the evening of Saturday, February 27, 2021 the Self Regional Healthcare Foundation hosted the “MASK-erade Midwinter Ball–Virtually…the Most Anticipated Fundraiser of the Year”. This year’s Mid-Winter Ball honored the challenges and sacrifices the pandemic has put on our community and on our healthcare workers.
“The pandemic has caused a great strain on our personal lives as well as the lives of our healthcare workers and services so we are committed to maintaining the tradition of our signature fundraiser. Rather than being in-person, we went virtual — allowing us to offer the ball experience to many more people, while keeping everyone safe in the comfort of their own home,” said Ken Coffey, Executive Director of the Self Regional Healthcare Foundation.
“I want to thank our Ball Planning Committee: Hunter Bell, Elyse Bower, Hanna Dover, Laura Fleming, Ellesor Holder, Tom Jackson, Meredith Lloyd, Laine Orcutt, and Amy Pritchard. This incredibly talented and creative group made our Ball happen and successful. Of course, I want to also thank our Sponsors and all that participated in the event,” said Coffey.
Typically a ticketed event, the Mid-Winter Ball was open to everyone and was live streamed. Utilizing an online bidding platform, the Virtual Ball included a wonderful silent auction with all kinds of unique items to choose from plus a live auction with a variety of exciting and one-of-a-kind experiences. Customarily, the Mid-Winter Ball fundraiser is a formal event with more than 600 people in attendance for dinner, dancing, and the silent and live auctions. “Shifting the Mid-Winter Ball to an online event is how many healthcare and not for profit organizations are adapting to the current climate while still staying true to the mission of raising funds for healthcare equipment and vital medical services,” said Coffey.
The live stream event featured a program, recognition of sponsors, a silent auction, a raffle with a cash prize, and a live auction conducted by an in-person auctioneer plus a few surprises. “Attendees” were able to view it from the comfort of their home using a smartphone, tablet, computer or live stream TV service. For the first time bidders were able to start early on the silent auction which was open a full week before the live stream event.
“For 33 years, the Mid-Winter Ball has relied on the generous support of people throughout our community and our loyal Presenting Sponsors – like Countybank, Greenwood Capital and Lonza – who all recognize the importance of local healthcare services and needs,” added Coffey.
Since its inception, the Mid-Winter Ball has raised well over $3 million on behalf of Self Regional Healthcare. For more information, follow the Foundation on Facebook or visit the website at www.selfregionalfoundation.org.