We are on our Fourth Annual Down Home Shindig Auctions. The last two have been located at the beautiful Country N Lace venue in Toledo, Washington.  

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Three of the most common remarks about this event are:

" What a great night to give to this organization and help our students."  
" How come you do not do this event every year?"
" What a great date night of fantastic food, laughs, fun and giving."

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The Down Home ShinDig is a great night for the community.  Leading up to the event, there is a buzz around town on it's big night.

For two months prior, members of the Toledo Community Foundation Board of Directors go out to begin the tasks of gathering silent and live auction items within themselves and members of the community. As the time of the event nears, more and more donors step forward with their auction gift items.

The tasks then turn to the construction and presentation of these items for the silent, dessert, and live auctions. At the same time, sponsors are sought out or come forward to be a part of this fundraising effort.

Ticket sales begin with a ceiling of about 250 people. Many people have regrettably missed the cut off point to get their event ticket and vow to be among the first the next time out.     

The heavy lifting begins about two days before the event as over a hundred auction items are delivered and set up for presentation. Decorations adorn Country N Lace's venue with care and quality, while at the same time, the sound system gets put in place for music and the auctioneers to perform their roles.

The ShinDig is famous for its evening meal.  Bonanza BBQ of Toledo has been the caterer of choice for this event since the beginning.  Nothing like a deeply prepared Bar-B-Q sets the tone for fun and gifting at this community event.

With Bluegrass music playing softly in the background, guests are welcome to eat, drink and be set for the evening's program.  Short testimonials are given as a lead into the auctions and the excitement, awe, and appreciation of the generosity fills the room.  The evening concludes with laughter and gratitude for the hosts and for all those that came to support this cause.  Word quickly turns to, " for next time, let's do...."

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There is something for everyone and there are all levels of giving offered to the guests; maybe that is why many of them would like to see this event every year.