The Friends of V.I. National Park’s fourth annual Online Auction begins at 9 a.m. Nov. 16, but there is still time to donate items to be included. They will be accepted through Nov. 14.
While the Friends have Virgin Islands’ villas on the list, Friends Development Director Karen Vahling said stays at other locations are also popular.
“Last year someone donated a week at Smokey Mountains National Park,” she said.
She said people who want to donate villa stays can exclude certain dates. She said this is a good way to fill the villa during the off season and do good for the Friends.
The Friends would also like excursions like fishing, diving and sailing trips, car rentals, airfare including the donation of airline miles as well as “unique, quality” retail items.
The auction runs through 8 p.m. Dec. 9. Times are Eastern Standard Time.
This year’s goal is $30,000. Last year the event raised $28,350 for Friends programs that support the park. They included the youth Eco-Camps, maintenance on all six miles of park trails, the archeology program plus many other projects.
So far, the Friends have over 40 items listed to auction off. They include jewelry, dining, clothing, art, hotel and villa stays as well as excursions.
Highlights include a seven-night stay at the luxury villa Isla Vista, a diamond and silver limpet necklace and earring set from R&I Patton, gourmet catering, day trips, custom artwork, photography, weddings and more.
Retail values of the items range from $85 to $10,000.
Vahling said the auction is timed for holiday gift shopping and in advance of the winter season so visitors can plan their vacation stays and activities.
To donate, call Vahling at 779-4940 or email her at kvahling@friendsvinp.org. Shoppers can preview the list of items and register to bid by visiting www.biddingforgood.com/friendsofvinp.
