What do the imminent closing of the Herberger’s stores and the 26th Annual Dunrovin Sunset Benefit Cruise have in common? Maybe not much. Recently a sign on the Herberger’s door announced, “13 days until closing!” Thus, I went inside to claim the greatest deals. Things I must have…cannot live without! There I overheard a conversation between mother and daughter: “These purses are a great price.”
“Yah! I don’t have any purses. Only three.”
Not judging! However, this comment endorses Jan Byer’s sales tactic during Dunrovin’s Sunset Benefit Cruise on July 30, 2018. Jan urged 190 cruise guests to consider what they could give up for a day or week and donate that amount to facilitate the youth programs at Dunrovin. Perhaps our cruise guests will stop drinking Starbucks for the next year because over $10,000 was given! After a few more numbers are tallied, the anticipated net income (including sponsorship and ticket purchases) equals almost $27,000.
Wow! Your contribution directly impacts the lives of kids who cannot afford to come on life-changing, faith-impacting, growth-inspiring retreats and camps. These youth are grateful for your gift. Dunrovin is grateful for your gift.
We also thank Matt Birk and his family. Matt’s spot-on message encouraged youth to take the next step toward leadership and growth. Thank you to Stella Lundquist, Brother I. Damian Award recipient, who reminded us that we stand upon the shoulders of the De La Salle Christian Brothers in our mission of serving youth in economic poverty.
Thank you to high school student Clare Howard who spoke about her Getaway Retreats: “Dunrovin gives me the opportunity to get away from the things that keep me from God. Everything we do on retreat helps me develop and understand my faith. Plus, we add a layer of fun to religion that is really valuable to young people.”
Thank you to seminarian Nick Vance who worked with DLITE (Dunrovin Leadership Intensive Training Experience). Nick advocated that donors would see a return from their financial gifts. Nick said, “True leadership happens when you are willing to get your hands dirty and serve those around you. You don’t need any qualifications to serve but only a heart full of love.”
These young people are our ambassadors. Their inspiration connects with youth who walk alongside them and with benefactors who receive hope from their young witness.
A frequent comment about the annual Dunrovin fundraiser is that it is an evening of enjoyment. Our intention in corralling cruise guests on the first deck of the Stillwater River Boats Avalon for a 30-minute program is to offer a glimpse of who we are and why we need the generous support of donors. Afterward, guests take a mini-retreat as they float away from the cares of life for the rest of the 2 ½ hour cruise on the mesmerizing St. Croix River. Some guests enjoy mingling around the boat, while others choose a seat and relax there for the rest of the evening. Some guests vie for the best deal in the Silent Auction and many take home a bottle of wine from the Fabulous Prizes.
It feels like a win-win: You have no long speeches to sit through and we have the pleasure of your company while dawdling down the river. We are thankful.
See you next year!