The numbers aren't in yet, but it looks like the Mardi Gras Magic fundraiser held on the weekend may surpass all expected goals.
The latest fundraiser for a new Battlefords Trade and Education Centre day facility was sold out at 385 seats and even had a waiting list for any seats that might become available during the evening.
With a silent auction of 26 auction items, plus trips, furniture and other live auction items, party-goers had the opportunity to show their support for BTEC and they did so beyond the hopes of organizers.
The community support was amazing, said fundraising committee chair Tammy Heinemann. The help of volunteers in making decorations and preparing the Alex Dillabough Centre in Battleford for the event, along with the support from the corporate community in donating auction items was above and beyond what they could ever have hoped for, she said.
Program co-ordinator Mona Leece said BTEC clients and staff also spent time making decorations and were excited about the positive response they've received from the community with each fundraising event. A number of clients and their caregivers came to the event, dressed in costume and in high spirits.
North Battleford Comprehensive High School cooking instructor Janice Staff along with guest chefs from the Battlefords and Saskatoon put together an authentic Cajun meal that wowed the crowd and earned her crew a standing ovation.
"The food was phenomenal!" said Heinemann. "It was beautifully prepared and presented, a real highlight of the night."
The menu? Cajun Roast Pork; Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya; Baby Potatoes, Corn and Shrimp Boil; Rice; Muffaletta Salad; Tortellini Salad; New Orleans Tossed Salad; Biscuits; Corn Muffins; King Cake; and Pecan Bread Pudding with Bourban Sauce.
Staff said the work required was significant, but worth it. She has had many BTEC clients come through her cooking program and says they are "wonderful people."
"They deserve it," she said of the plan to build them a new facility.
Heinemann said the fundraising activities that have taken place since the decision to build a new facility have not only been well-supported by the community, they have resulted in the discovery of a new treasure in the artwork of BTEC clients. Among the many projects undertaken by clients, such as producing birthday cards and painted surveyors stakes, is the production of paintings, from realistic to abstract. These paintings have been sold in several fundraising events. The last art sale made over $8,000, said Heinemann. Now, selling reproductions of client artwork is helping bring up the tally.
In total, the fundraising efforts have probably put them over the $300,000 level. But, they will know for sure in near future as the expenses and returns come in from the Mardis Gras event Saturday evening.
BTEC provides support services to individuals with disabilities, trains them in new skills, and assists them in their pursuit of independence. In May 2011, the provincial government provided $2 million towards a new building for the organization. BTEC has to raise $1.3 million more.
BTEC currently operates out of the former Colonel Otter Armoury at 702 - 102nd St. The new building is to be located on Railway Avenue.
