Wine Working Wonders

Oregon’s premier fundraising event, the Classic Wines Auction raised more than $2.42 million to benefit Metropolitan Family Service, New Avenues for Youth, Friends of the Children-Portland and ywca clark county.

More than 700 wine enthusiasts gathered at the Oregon Convention Center Saturday night, March 3rd to raise funds for charities benefiting children and families in the metropolitan area. ywca clark county is the only beneficiary organization from Washington State, and funds from the event(s) make up about 50% of ywca’s philanthropic-related income.

The gala auction is part of a week of “Wine Working Wonders,” which includes four days of winemaker dinners, an ambassador dinner and the auction itself.  ywca clark county volunteers, staff and guests that provided a strong presence at all events. Guests bid on exciting auction packages that would not have been possible without the bounty of unique and delectable items provided by generous sponsors and donors. Volunteers and staff worked tirelessly on the floor and behind the scenes to help create a magical experience for all who attended.

ywca’s success can also be attributed to local champions. Linda Rae Hickey’s leadership in Raise Your Paddle helped generate over $750,000. Kim and Dan Agnew generously donated items for and agreed to host a very popular dinner package. Rachel Collins inspired guests with her story of discovering Y’s Care, establishing new goals, and regaining her life after leaving an abusive relationship. Auction co-chairs Kim Agnew, Cindy Campbell and Craig Wessel invested time and talents to make the auction a memorable evening. Recognition is also due to all the sponsors, including presenting sponsors Bank of America and US Trust.

“We are so grateful to everyone in the community who supported us through Classic Wines and just thrilled to be a beneficiary for the fourth year in a row,” said Sherri Bennett, Executive Director of ywca clark county. “This income ensures that we can continue providing opportunities for change in the lives of our neighbors, family and friends in Clark County.”

A number of auction packages are still open to the public for bidding on the website at www.classicwinesauction.com. Final revenue shares are expected to be revealed in May.

About Classic Wines Auction

Recognized as one of the top ten charity wine auctions in the country by Wine Spectator Magazine since 2001, the Classic Wines Auction has raised nearly $30 million for Portland-area charities since its inception in 1982. Based in Portland, Ore., Classic Wines Auction, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing the Classic Wines Auction and related food and wine events to raise funds for local charities benefiting children and families, including: Metropolitan Family Service, New Avenues for Youth, Friends of the Children-Portland and ywca clark county. See more at www.classicwinesauction.com.