Empower, the not-for-profit organization formerly known as Niagara Cerebral Palsy, will hold its Snowflake Basket Auction from 4-8 p.m. Friday, March 9, and from noon until 5 p.m. Saturday, March 10, at the Volare Lodge located on 56th and Kies streets in the City of Niagara Falls.
Attendance is free. Proceeds will benefit individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
In the past, funds from the Snowflake Basket Auction were used for summer camp registration fees, basic supplies for families in need, and teaching materials.
Josh, an individual who receives Empower services, said, "I love going to the basket auction every year with my friends. I also am able to go to camp in the summer because of this event."
This year's auction features themed basket and silent auction items, as well as a big-ticket raffle promoted with pre-event ticket sales. The big-ticket raffle items are a $300 Pellicanos gift certificate and gas grill, and $250 cash.
Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the event, or by contacting Cheryl Seelbinder at 716-297-0798, ext. 134, or
[email protected]. Ticket drawings begin at 5 p.m. Saturday, March 25.
Attendees can also try their hand at winning gift certificates, merchandise and baskets from the Bills, Maid of the Mist, Oogie Games and more. In addition, four Disney Hopper passes will be auctioned on eBay, with information and a link to the auction on Empower's Facebook page and website. Winners need not be present to win, except for the silent auction.
Food will be available for purchase, including a spaghetti dinner on Friday night, and pizza, submarine sandwiches and Russ' famous snowflake cookies on Saturday.
Event sponsors include Smokin' Joe's and Wegmans.
With 300 employees and a $14 million budget, Empower is one of Western New York's 50 largest nonprofit organizations. The administrative offices, preschool, community clinic and service coordination program are located on Lockport Road in the Town of Niagara. The job training and day programs division is based in Niagara Falls, while residential facilities are located throughout Niagara County. Licensed by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and the New York State Education Department, Empower is an affiliate of the Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York State.
