The 62nd annual Civitan Auction raised a total of $9,000 this year.
For the first time in its history, the auction was hosted online instead of on TV, and Mike Dumas, co-chair of the event, said he thinks it impacted this year’s bids, which generated $7,000 less than last year.
However, Dumas said the auction being online will provide a greater opportunity for people outside of El Dorado to place bids and that next year will be bigger and better.
“Some of our merchants were a little wary about online,” Dumas said. “After they saw how it worked, I think everyone was satisfied and pleased with it and we’ll see greater participation next year.”
The auction was also held later in the year than normal — Dumas said it’s usually in April or May, which is when the next auction will be.
Dumas said all 102 items that went up for auction were bid on and won. He said two-thirds of the proceeds, about $6,000, will benefit the South Arkansas Developmental Center for Children and Families. The other third will go to other organizations like the Boys & Girls Club, Boy Scouts and Camp Fire.
“It all goes back into the community,” Dumas said. “Every dime raised supports our various agencies.”