Christmas time is already here, and the season of giving is upon us. Toy drop-offs, food drives, and donation boxes sit at entrances to shops and stores, waiting on the generosity of patrons to help during the holidays. This month, the Berrien County Historical Association is introducing their first-ever Secret Santa Online Auction, where you can shop for loved ones without leaving the house, and support a non-profit organization at the same time.
The ‘Signature Event’, hosted every year for the BCHA, is their annual major fundraiser, bringing in donations and funds necessary for this organization to continue. This Fall, it was unfortunately canceled, as was its replacement event, ‘Farmapalooza’. Patrons and community members look forward to gathering each year in support of the educational entertainment the BCHA provides, so the new Secret Santa Online Auction is live now!
“We had wonderful items donated for the silent auction (for the fall event) that just couldn’t go to waste!” says Executive Director Rhiannon Cizon. “All funds from the auction help to support our non-programming needs, such as building maintenance and staff development opportunities. Museums like ours have many “cogs and gears” to maintain to ensure we can remain open and engaging for our visitors. Every dollar helps to support our mission and the staff who work diligently to make it happen every day.”
The auction opened privately to BCHA members last week, and went live to the public on December 1st. Bidding ends on December 15th, and there are so many gifts from which to choose! With generous donations from area businesses and organizations, you will find auction items like cozy book packages, jewelry, sports memorabilia, a House of David tour + lunch, weekend getaways, gift baskets, beautiful art, and more. “We also have Christmas mystery boxes for brave souls who want to bid on them!” says Rhiannon.
A few of the auction items will be on display during Berrien Spring’s Kindle Your Christmas Spirit Celebration, which takes place this Thursday, December 8th, from 6 p.m – 9 p.m.
After the bidding ends, the Berrien County Historical Assoc. welcomes you to their Pick-Up Party, on December 16th, at 7 p.m. This holiday celebration will offer refreshments, music, and joy, as you help make the BCHA’s days merry and bright. While on the grounds, (at 313 N. Cass Street in Berrien Springs), take a tour of their current exhibit, Sew Gorgeous: The BCHA’s Quilt Collection, which can be found on display in the Sheriff’s House until December 23rd.
Tell your family and friends from out-of-state, as they can shop too: the BCHA will gladly ship items for a $15 fee. If you are unable to attend the Pick-Up Party (to pick up your items), the BCHA is offering additional dates and times, by appointment. Shop online now, and get your bids in quickly! For more information about the Berrien County Historical Association, to make a donation, and to learn about their programs offered throughout the year, please visit berrienhistory.org, or their Facebook page.
By Jocelyne Tuszynski, MOTM Contributor
