Snow! The first planning meeting of the 2020 Home Sweet Home committee had to be virtual because of a snowstorm in February. One of the committee members even said, “This will be our biggest challenge of the year.” If only. Let’s take a look at how Family Promise’s main fundraiser did a major pivot during the pandemic to continue funding hope, help and home for families without shelter.
First, a bit of background on this fundraising event:
- For more than 20 years, Home Sweet Home has taken place to celebrate Family Promise volunteers and raise funds to help every child have a home.
- The 2019 event sent records with more than $100,000 in donations and 400 people in attendance.
- A dedicated committee of volunteers from half a dozen congregations puts together this event that includes a silent auction, wine pull, dessert auction and volunteer recognition, with numerous event sponsors.
- We honor the IHN Coordinator of the Year, Family Promise Volunteer of the Year, and the highest honor of the Dean Lindsey Lifetime Achievement Award.
So 2020……
When the world shut down, the committee continued meeting via Zoom to come up with Plan B, C and D. We settled on a “hybrid” approach of three, socially distanced sessions in person, as well as livestream for those at home. Would it work?
YES!
God is good and so many were faithful donors to make the night a success! We raised $98,500 which far surpassed our modified goal of $50,000. The testimony of three former guests reinforced how Family Promise makes a difference in helping families find homes. You can read success stories by linking here.
Take a look at photos from the night here as well as read more information on how supporters safely and creatively supported the cause.
Thanks to so many from First Mennonite and Shalom who support Family Promise!
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About the author
Kenda Resler Friend
Kenda is passionate about the Family Promise Mission of helping every child have a home, and will be president of the board starting in January 2021. She’ll add this to her 2021 list that includes being president of the PTO at North Central, running her business (KRF Public Relations) and wrangling Chewy, the Friend family pandemic puppy.