Volunteer Events: March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction

Illinois State University PRSSA members volunteer their time and energy to several different philanthropies throughout the year.  On Sept. 19, ISU’s PRSSA chapter had the pleasure of volunteering at the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction.  Volunteers helped the event run smoothly by greeting attendees, taking photos and assisting with the auctions.  

March of Dimes impacts the Bloomington-Normal community by helping mothers have full-term births at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center and OSF St. Joseph Medical Center.  They also do work on a global scale to help decrease premature births and life-threatening problems for infants.  All of the money raised during the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction went towards research and helping families affected by premature births.

The night consisted of unbelievable food, great auction items and even a photo booth.  Large round tables were decorated with giant floral centerpieces and mini cupcakes from Sugar Mama Bakery, a local favorite.  Volunteers began the night by testing the photo booth and sampling some of the food.  Some members played paparazzi for the night and photographed the guests at the entrance. When the auction began, it was PRSSA members’ job to make sure the guests enjoyed themselves while helping out behind-the-scenes. 

Many ISU PRSSA members aspire to have a career in event planning.  Volunteering at this event gave members a deeper understanding of what makes an event run smoothly.  One lesson learned is something is bound to go wrong. However, it is not the problems, but how they are handled that matters. As volunteers, members were able to lend a helping hand wherever needed.  Many nonprofit organizations like March of Dimes rely heavily on volunteers to accomplish their goals. 

It was a great feeling to have been a part of a fundraising event for such an amazing organization.  For anyone who is new to ISU PRSSA, volunteer opportunities like this event are a great way to get involved and meet other members!  


By Ashley Bushala

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