Samaritan Center to hold annual fundraiser Thursday

Some day the Samaritan Center Foundation will have $1 million in the bank for a rainy day fund.

At least, that's the long-term goal of volunteer executive director Marylyn DeFeo.

The fourth annual dinner and auction fundraiser will be Thursday at Capitol Plaza Hotel.

The 2005 event, which is the lone fundraiser for the foundation, raised $167,000. DeFeo said she'd like to at least match that, but ultimately would like to see $200,000 come from the donations.

In addition to fundraising, the event is an opportunity for leadership to say thank-you to volunteer efforts, DeFeo said.

The auction will feature an array of sporting event packages and paraphernalia, artwork and handmade items, and unique dining and social experiences.

Gift baskets full of goodies, including chocolate, beach fun, movie nights and St. Louis Cardinals tickets, were created by 18 of the Samaritan Center's contributing churches for the silent auction.

Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with a cash bar and the silent auction will be open.

Dinner will be served a 7 p.m., with the silent auction closing at 7:30 p.m.

The live auction will begin at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $50 per plate or $500 for a table of 10.

“Jefferson City is a very giving town,” DeFeo said. “I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.”

Call (573) 634-7776 for more information.