A volunteer reads to a group of engrossed children.
Children playing with toys and materials provided by the Children’s Center.
Have you ever participated in Lopez Children’s Center’s Annual Auction (formerly known as the Apron Auction)? If not, this auction is one not to miss. Known for its fun, entertainment and fast selling, the auction features items donated by Lopez Island artisans and businesses. Lopez Island’s own famous Robert Herrmann acts as the auctioneer for the short and sweet one hour live auction. The silent and live auctions feature a variety of lunch bags, market bags and a few aprons, along with other wonderful gift items and art. A beach trip will be donated, as well as gift certificates, food baskets, and others.
The 10th Annual Auction is Sunday, August 9 at Lopez Community Center. Preview for the Live Auction and the Silent Auction are 3-4 p.m. and the Live Auction is 4-5 p.m. Delicious savory and sweet foods are available as well.
The Children’s Center Auction first began 10 years ago when several community members were beginning to raise monies for the Children’s Center Building, which now is home to Lopez Children’s Center’s Play And Learn Program, Lopez Cooperative Preschool and Lopez Island Family Resource Center. “The partnership of the building works well for all young families. Childcare and preschool is downstairs and family services is upstairs. It’s almost like a one-stop shopping experience for young families who use these community non-profits,” Susie Teague, LCC Board Member, said.
Last year the Children’s Center celebrated its 5th Anniversary of this marvelous building being open and of the Play and Learn Childcare Program. The Annual Children’s Center Auction is the primary fundraiser for Lopez Island’s licensed early childhood education center. For that reason, this auction is a very important event for the Center.
“What makes this event so special is the fact that giving children an early start like we provide with this Center has been proven to assist children long term in their learning skills. We hope everyone in the community will be able to participate in this very enjoyable event,” Teague commented.
Early childhood education is one indicator of success for young children’s ability to develop social and emotional skills necessary for entering into kindergarten and elementary school. Research shows that high quality early learning experiences can increase children’s readiness for learning and long-term social benefits.
President Obama supports early childhood education as well. “I will not settle for an America where some kids don’t have that chance (for education). I’ll invest in early childhood education,” Obama said in one of his speeches during the 2008 Democratic National Convention.
All proceeds from the 10th Annual Lopez Children’s Center Auction will support all of the work at Lopez Children’s Center. For more information please contact Jane or Ellin at 468-3896 or Terri at 468-4901.
