USD 489
The USD 489 Foundation, Hays, is gearing up for one of the community’s favorite events of the year — the annual USD 489 Foundation Auction, happening Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Ellis County Fairgrounds.
The evening offers a fun, casual atmosphere where guests can enjoy great food, drinks, games and plenty of opportunities to support students throughout USD 489. Guests will be welcomed with charcuterie board appetizers, followed by dinner catered by Pfonz Smokehaus & Catering and desserts prepared by the Hays High Culinary Arts Department. An open bar will be available throughout the evening.
In addition to the silent and live auctions, guests can participate in a wine pull, bingo, and a cash raffle. With more than 100 items up for bid, there is something for nearly everyone — from school merchandise, local gift baskets and gift cards to unique experiences and trips across the country.
Auction packages include opportunities to enjoy local restaurants and businesses, day trips to Salina, tickets to local concerts and much more. One of the evening’s special offerings is a private dinner catered by the Hays High Culinary Arts Department, complete with entertainment provided by the Hays High Music Department.
Whether guests are looking to spend a little or go home with a carload of auction finds, the event offers plenty of ways to participate. The auction has become a popular annual tradition, selling out each year and welcoming nearly 300 guests, including USD 489 staff and administrators, parents, community members, and local business sponsors. Many attendees return year after year to enjoy the evening while supporting students and schools.
Most importantly, proceeds from the Foundation Auction go directly back into the USD 489 school district.
Throughout the year, the USD 489 Foundation provides funding for teacher and staff requests that fall outside of regular building budgets — helping bring innovative, hands-on, and engaging learning opportunities into classrooms.
Foundation funding has also helped improve school security, enhance playground equipment, purchase new display panels for Hays Middle School, and provide new science kits for Hays High School. The 489 Foundation also supports students and families facing difficult circumstances by providing Thanksgiving and Christmas food boxes when school is not in session, as well as coats, socks, glasses, and other essential items when needed.
“The auction is about much more than one night of food, fun and fundraising,” said Chrisy Crough, president, 489 Foundation. “It’s an opportunity for our community to come together and make a direct impact on students, teachers and classrooms throughout USD 489.”
Tickets are $65 per person or $500 for a table of eight. Because the event typically sells out, guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early.
For tickets, auction information and more about the work of the USD 489 Foundation, visit https://www.usd489.com/page/foundation.