The Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County (BGCCC) is proud to uphold the traditions that have been a part of our community since the dedication of the Clubhouse in 1971. This year marks the fifty-third anniversary of the BGCCC Benefit Reverse Drawing and Auction, a testament to our enduring commitment to the children of our community.

The event, to be held on Friday, June 14, at the LeGrand Center, features a meal at 5:30 pm and the reverse drawing at 6:00 pm. The Grand Prize is a substantial $15,000 in cash, less applicable taxes. The evening also includes a silent auction and a live auction midway through the event. Prizes will be awarded to the holder of every fiftieth number drawn throughout the night, and the last five numbers drawn before the final prize will win a prize. It's important to note that you do not have to be present to win the prize.

Phillip Philbeck, a nationally recognized artist, and Tracy Stilwell, Victorian Rose Photography Studio, continue a tradition started by Tracy's Dad, Elwin Stilwell, and Phillip, in 2008. A framed print of Philbeck's artwork was auctioned off as part of the live auction. Elwin's vision was for the picture to raise about $600, the cost of a child attending the Club during the school year. Although Elwin passed away in 2009, his daughter Tracy and Philbeck have continued to donate a framed print each year. This year marks the fifteenth year of this tradition, and it's estimated that over $11,000 has been raised to support the Club Kids through this initiative. Visit Phillip's website,
phillipphilbeck.com, to view this year's print Summer at Chetola.

Dr. Kim Greene, Angie Ledford, and Dr. Faye Burton, Board members, are coordinating the Benefit Raffle and Silent and Live Auctions. "People have supported us for many years, and one of the things that is unique to our Benefit Raffle is they want the same number every year, making it a little more complicated," explained Dr. Greene. We are fortunate to have businesses that work with us to offer prizes and provide Silent and Live Auction items each year. This year's live auction promises an exciting array of items. Don't miss your chance to bid on the fantastic items!

The event is held the Friday before Father's Day. Cakes baked by Board members are offered and auctioned off that night. Many fond memories of the competition between three or four bidders wanting to buy the cakes to offer it for dessert on Father's Day.

Josh Propst, executive director of BGCCC, underscores the direct impact of your participation in the event. "Your generous contribution will provide the much-needed funds to staff the after-school sites at all eight locations, ensuring that Club Kids at the Main Club and Teen Center, as well as in elementary schools: Fallston, Casar, Springmore, Bethware, and North
Elementary. Students at Elizabeth Elementary, in Shelby are served at the Main Club.
BBGCC now serves over 350 children attending the After School Program daily. The Board's challenge is increasing revenue to cover the site expenses. Your support is crucial in meeting this challenge and making a difference in the lives of these children."

We invite you to join us on the Friday before Father's Day for an unforgettable evening filled evening with friendly competition, delightful cakes, and a heartwarming moment. Your presence is not just a ticket purchase but a step towards a brighter future for the children served. Secure your ticket by visiting bgccleveco.org and purchasing online, or contact a board member for assistance. This event is one of three fundraising events the club sponsors each year.

Let's come together to celebrate our legacy of empowering you, supporting families, and building a stronger community. Your involvement makes a difference - don't miss this opportunity to be part of something special at the Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland County.