Everything You Wanted to Know About the Auction
How can I support the auction?
All St. Joseph School families have agreed to support the auction in one of three ways:
- Donate/Procure an auction item valued at $325 or more. Peek at our wish list for inspiration.
- Underwrite an auction package with a donation of $325 or more.
- Support Fund-a-Need with a gift of $325 or more.
How are the funds raised at the auction used?
The St. Joseph School Auction is the year’s largest fundraiser, benefiting the entire school community. Your generous support enables the school to provide a high-quality Catholic Jesuit education to students, regardless of their social, economic, or religious background. The proceeds not only help cover the cost of our generous financial aid program but also support many vital programs, including curriculum and staff development, technology, maintenance, and facility improvements. Much of the proceeds raised from the auction are dedicated to a specific Fund-A-Need.
What is procurement?
Procurement is all about acquiring items or services for the auction, which can come from local businesses, personal networks, or even your own contributions. These could include unique experiences, gift certificates, merchandise, or any other items you think would spark interest and attract high bids. Every procurement helps make the auction more exciting while contributing to its success. Additionally, it helps fulfill your $325 commitment.
What is underwriting?
Underwriting means donating cash to cover the cost of a specific auction item. The underwriter then becomes the official donor of that item and will be listed in the catalog as such. Donating to underwriting fulfills the $325 auction commitment.
What is Fund-A-Need?
Fund-A-Need is a request for monetary donations that directly support a specific school need. 100% of the money raised is dedicated to that specific need. This year’s Fund-A-Need supports Opening Doors to a Safer, Stronger Future. Donating to Fund-A-Need fulfills the $325 auction commitment.
What is a Buy-In?
“Buy-ins” are group outings or themed parties available for individual auction purchases. These events are fun ways to connect with other parents, families, and students. Here at St. Joe’s, we love buy-in parties! They bring people together and build community, making it easy for everyone to participate in the auction.
Some successful buy-in parties have included the Pickleball Tournament, Mom Prom, Cookies & Cocktails, Tacos and Tequila, the School’s Out Pool Party, and My Oh My! It's the Last Day of School with the Mariners, among many others. Often, several families join together to donate to a buy-in party. Donating a buy-in party can fulfill your $325 auction commitment. Everyone wins!
What is the Dessert Dash?
The Dessert Dash is a dazzling and delicious way to support the auction during A Golden Era. We are looking for spectacular desserts that will shine and inspire our guests to bid generously for their chance to "dash" for a golden treat. Bake, procure, or purchase a mouthwatering dessert for A Golden Era, and it will count toward your $325 auction commitment.
What should I wear to the auction?
Each year, guests arrive in everything from casual cool to black-tie glam, and many enjoy dressing to match the auction theme. This year’s Golden Era invites a nod to timeless style—whether that’s a vintage touch, a classic silhouette, or simply something that makes you feel fabulous.
Ultimately, wear what makes you feel confident, festive, and ready to support a great cause. And for those looking for inspiration, keep an eye out for Golden Era Style picks coming soon from our sponsor, Armoire.
Why is the auction not at St. Joseph School?
We want to include as many people as possible, and the capacity at Fremont Studios allows us to accommodate 100+ more guests than we can on campus.
