Auction Parent Information

OLL School Auction: Everything You Need to Know

Fun & Flair: Celebrating 75 Years, 1975 Style!
April 12, 2025 – Mark your calendars and get ready to boogie down!

Our annual auction is one of the biggest and most exciting events of the year at OLL, bringing together parents, parishioners, alumni, and friends to celebrate community and raise crucial funds for our school. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting event, from how you can get involved to where the funds go and what to expect on auction night.

Why Do We Have an Auction?

At OLL, we believe in providing the best possible education for our students while keeping tuition affordable. The auction is a vital part of how we achieve this. It allows us to enhance the curriculum and improve school facilities without significantly raising tuition rates. Plus, it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the OLL community and have a fun night out with fellow parents, parishioners, and friends!

What Are the Goals for the Auction?

Our main goal is simple: Community. We come together to raise as much money as possible, efficiently and with minimal costs, all while building camaraderie and enjoying the process. The auction is not just about fundraising—it’s about strengthening the bonds that make our OLL family so special.

Where Does the Money Go?

All the funds raised through the auction go directly into next year’s school operating budget. This helps us provide important resources like curriculum enhancements, classroom materials, teacher professional development, and tuition assistance for families in need. In short, every dollar raised benefits every student at OLL.

Who Attends the Auction?

The auction is open to all! Our OLL families, parishioners, alumni, and friends of the school come together for an evening of fun and fundraising. Whether you're a current parent or a long-time supporter, you’re invited to join the festivities!

What Can We Expect This Year?

This year’s auction promises to be bigger and better than ever. Here's what you can look forward to:

Pre-party: Start the evening early with cocktails (full bar!) and early bidding on exciting auction items.
Silent auction: Mingle with friends while bidding on silent auction items at a variety of price points
Dinner & Live Auction: Enjoy a multi-course sit-down dinner while bidding on live auction items (plus a fun and competitive dessert dash!)
Class Projects: Don’t miss out on the creative class projects and themed raffle baskets made by our students!
A Night of Fun and Community: The best part? This is a night to come together, build community, and celebrate OLL!
PLUS...Class Raffle Baskets & Assembly for the Kids: The week of the auction we’ll have a fun and memorable themed assembly for the students and the Class Baskets will be raffled!

How Do I Get Involved?

Getting involved is easy! You can sign up to volunteer through the Volunteer Interest Form, or reach out to Karen McGlynn [email protected] for more information. Keep an eye on the school newsletter for updates on volunteer opportunities and open positions.

Do I Have to Volunteer for the Auction?

Yes, every parent is expected to contribute to the auction by volunteering at least four hours toward fundraising. You can fulfill your volunteer hours before, during, or after the auction, depending on your schedule. It’s a great way to be involved, meet other parents, and support the school!

Is Being a Committee Chair a Lot of Work?

The amount of work involved depends on the committee you’re volunteering with. Some committees may require more time, while others are more manageable. The great news is, you’re not alone! Each committee is supported by subcommittees, and many volunteers return year after year to help out. Many hands make light work—and it’s a lot of fun!

What About the Auction Chairs?

Auction chairs do dedicate a significant amount of time, but they have plenty of support from the rest of the committees. Plus, it’s a rewarding and fun experience! We suggest starting small and gradually increasing your involvement over the years. Consider teaming up with a friend—volunteering is always more enjoyable when you’re doing it together!

If I’m Working During the Gala Dinner, Do I Still Need to Buy a Ticket?

No, volunteers who are volunteering during the Gala Dinner do not need to purchase a ticket. Volunteers are still assigned a bidder number, so you can bid while fulfilling your duties. Available volunteer roles include data control, item retrieval, and helping with runners and spotters.

What Are the Most Important Things I Need to Know About Procurement?

Procurement is a key part of making the auction successful, and we need your help! Here’s what you need to know:

Each family is required to procure or donate items with a minimum value of $250.

Items should have a minimum value of $100, unless they are bundled with other items (raffle baskets are an exception).
Please submit a completed procurement form for each item you donate.
Items should be new and in their original packaging.
No clothing will be accepted. Handmade items may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

What Are Some Popular Auction Items?

Here are some ideas to help you brainstorm:

Private boat cruises or experiences
Electronics (smartphones, tablets, etc.)
Sporting event tickets, suites, and memorabilia
Vacation properties, overnight getaways, or cabins
Themed parties or adult scavenger hunts
Wine tastings, gourmet food baskets, and more!

Check your Procurement Handbook for additional suggestions and guidelines.

Why Do I Have to Procure Items?

As part of your tuition contract, every OLL family is required to either procure or donate items to be sold at the auction. Without these items, we can’t have an auction. This is a vital part of how we support our school and ensure that we’re able to keep tuition affordable while providing excellent resources for our students.

What’s the Difference Between Procuring and Donating?

Procuring means asking a business or third party to donate an item for the auction (for example, a local restaurant donating a gift certificate).
Donating means you contribute an item or cash directly from your own resources (for example, a new item you purchase or cash to be used for procurement).

Let’s Make This Auction a Success!

Your participation in the auction—by donating, volunteering, or attending—makes a huge difference in the success of this event. Together, we can continue to enhance the OLL experience for all our students and ensure that our community remains strong and vibrant for years to come.

For any additional questions or to get involved, contact Karen McGlynn [email protected]