Hays Area Children’s Center will host its annual holiday party and fundraiser, Bright Lights for Little Tykes holiday auction, at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21. The event will be at Rose Garden Banquet Hall, 2350 E. Eighth.
A silent auction and dinner will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a live auction at 7 p.m. There also will be raffle items.
The event has been HACC’s main fundraiser for the last 30 years. All proceeds raised at the event exclusively benefit Hays-area children and families. In addition to quality childcare and early education, HACC offers free early intervention support services.
These services, provided by a registered nurse, early childhood special education teacher, speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist and physical therapist, are for children between the ages of birth and 3 who have been diagnosed with a developmental delay or disability.
“Our early intervention team of specialists helps children with a wide range of diagnoses, including autism, physical disabilities and communication difficulties,” said Susan Bowles, executive director. “In addition, our team works with parents and caregivers to educate them about ways to help their child. This is a valuable service provided at no cost to local families who find themselves in a challenging and unexpected situation.”
Early detection and treatment of childhood disorders is critical, as 80 percent of brain development is complete by age three. HACC also offers free developmental screenings to help detect potential concerns as soon as possible.
“Multiple studies have shown a child’s outcomes improve significantly with early detection and proper early intervention services,” Bowles said. “The progress we help children make today can affect them for the rest of their lives as they enter school and society.”
A $50 ticket for the event includes a bidding number for silent and live auctions, an all-you-can-eat heavy hors d’ oeuvres buffet and complimentary wine. Tables can be reserved for parties of six or eight.
There will be more than 100 items sold at the event, including vacation packages, gift certificates, holiday gift baskets, electronics, jewelry and much more. The event, formerly known as Christmas Tree Auction, also will feature beautifully decorated Christmas trees for purchase.
To reserve your tickets today, contact Kaley Conner at Hays Area Children’s Center, (785) 625-3257 or [email protected]. Tickets also can be purchased at the center, located at 94 Lewis Drive in Hays. A limited amount of tickets will be available at the door the night of the event.