Sweepstakes Social raised funds for the Children's Auction

LACONIA — The 42 Teams who make up the 2021 Challenge kicked off their very first Sweepstakes Social this past Friday to raise funds for the Children’s Auction. Presented by Daniels Electric Corporation and held on board the M/S Mount Washington dockside at the Weirs, the event featured entertainment, dancing, delicious appetizers, and $15,000 in cash prizes to 10 lucky winners.

Over $20,000 was raised at the event, which passes thru to the 2021 Challenge Teams in support of their fundraising efforts thru the year. Teams will tally their funds and present to the Children’s Auction on December 9th at a Closing Ceremonies celebration. Last year, the Challenge Teams raised $249,640 bringing the total of the 2020 Children’s Auction to $435,809 which was distributed to 63 organizations that provide food, clothing and shelter; child and family resources; education, afterschool and recreation programs; and healthcare, substance abuse prevention and victim outreach.

In the spirit of Patrick’s Pub Mania, which transformed into The Challenge in 2020, the Sweepstakes Social was about having fun while making a difference for children and families in need in the greater Lakes Region. “People really enjoyed themselves. The cruise ship was the perfect venue, providing a spectacular setting, delicious food and beverage, along with some great entertainment” said Tom Milligan, president of Daniels Electric Corporation, who picked the 10 cash prize winners. “We are delighted to be associated with this event and proud to support the 2021 Challenge Teams on behalf of the Children’s Auction.”

Each of the 300 tickets purchased selected one of the 2021 Challenge teams of their choice to receive a matching amount of money in the event their number was chosen. Grand Prize Winner Kate Flaherty of Gilford won $5,000, and her team, Patrick’s King’s Corner, received a matching amount. “I’m so happy to be a winner, and even happier that $5,000 will go to bolster our team’s fundraising efforts,” said Ms. Flaherty.

Challenge teams have a fun and spirited competition for the three awards: Top Dollar Team, Outstanding Participation and the Feeding Families Award. 2020 team winners were presented with their awards prior to the grand prize drawing: Juggernaut Fitness - Feeding Families Award; Ladies of the Lake - Outstanding Participation; Belknap Landscape Corporation / Merry Misfits - Top Dollar Team.

Mount Washington Cruises and Shaw’s were major sponsors of the event, along with Lakes Region HVAC, Gilford Home Center, Meredith Village Savings Bank, US Foods and Patrick’s Pub & Eatery.

For more information, visit www.childrensauction.com/challenge.