EVENT INFO & DETAILS
When is the Spring Fundraiser?
The Spring Fundraiser is one of two fundraising events (in addition to the Golf Classic held every fall) put on by the Hamlin Parents Association each year. It also happens to be one of the most fun, most talked about Hamlin events of the year! It is an adults-only (Hamlin parents and their guests), evening bash that includes a cocktail hour, seated dinner program, Raise the Paddle effort (more info below), and, of course, live music and dancing! Each year features a fun theme that guides the décor, fashion inspiration, and overall feel of the event. This year’s theme is school spirit, and together we will celebrate all things red, gold, and Hamlin in support of our beloved school! You can also look forward to fun games, live music by Con Brio, and a series of school spirit-inspired logos designed by Hamlin girls!
Your participation contributes much needed financial support to the Parents Association's annual gift to Hamlin. Last year, the Parents Association raised $810,000 thanks to the generosity of the Hamlin community. Fundraising dollars support the extraordinary education our daughters receive at Hamlin.
What’s the theme, and who’s chairing it?
The Spring Fundraiser will happen this year on March 23, 2018 at City View (at the Metreon) and is chaired by Ginger Braun P’23, Kasey Byrnes Wayne ’88 P’23, and Kelly Woodruff P’13 & P’21.
Sounds fun! But what do I wear?
This year’s Spring Fundraiser is an opportunity for Hamlin parents to take part in their very own version of Red & Gold Day. Think pep rallies, pom poms, and LOTS of red and gold! As always, the choice is up to you. Cheerleading outfit? Yes! Lion costume? Sure! Red and gold sequined gown? Why not?!
TICKETS
What does “more inclusive” mean? Which ticket price should I choose?
In recognizing that every family at Hamlin is unique, and in wanting to offer greater access to the event, we are again offering two ticket prices with the same level of inclusion and benefits: $75 and $250. When considering the two ticket prices, please choose which level is the best fit for your family. Ticket sales go live on Tuesday, February 13 - be on the lookout for your e-invite on the same day!
How will seating work during the seated program?
We will have assigned seating, but where you sit is up to you. Sit with your friends, sit with your class, or let us introduce you to other members of the Hamlin community – your choice!
UNDERWRITING
I received a letter about becoming an underwriter. What exactly is underwriting, and am I expected to contribute?
At Hamlin we love hosting community-building events throughout the year: not only do they bring the Hamlin community closer together, but they are also a critical part of our fundraising efforts that help support the school’s operating expenses. Underwriting supports the Parents Association in our efforts to raise crucial funds for financial aid, faculty enrichment, and innovative programs at Hamlin. While we encourage you to join the underwriting effort at whatever level is most meaningful to you and your family, there is no obligation or expectation to do so. If you decide not to underwrite, there are lots of other ways to get involved, from supporting Raise the Paddle or the online auction (more info below) to volunteering your time on the event committee (please reach out to Natalie Holland at holland@hamlin.org for details on how you can help). Please note: we are delighted to recognize underwriters at every level in all promotional materials and at the event.
Many employers will match any charitable contributions made by their employees - and it can be an easy way to double (or even triple or more) your gift to Hamlin! Those who utilize matching gifts will be recognized at the level of their total giving. In order to initiate a matching gift, check with your employer for a form. If you're unsure whether your employer matches gifts, click here to search. Hamlin's tax ID number is 94-1393894.
RAISE THE PADDLE & AUCTIONS (INCLUDING COUNT ME INS AND FACULTY ALL STARS)
What is Raise the Paddle?
In addition to underwriting and ticket sales for the event, the Spring Fundraiser features a Raise the Paddle effort during the evening dinner portion of the program. Raise the Paddle is a fun, fast-paced, auction-style round that raises funds for a specific, targeted need at Hamlin. Examples of past Raise the Paddle efforts include athletics and PE, outdoor education and experiential learning, and professional development. Event attendees are invited to “raise their paddle” at whatever amount is most meaningful to them.
Isn’t there usually an auction associated with this event?
Yes! There will be a live auction during the seated dinner program portion of the event. There will also be an online auction full of fun and unique items and experiences to bid on. The online auction is a great way to support our school – every gift supports Hamlin’s mission and you get something fun in return! Be on the lookout for more information on online auction items and bidding in the coming weeks via Hamlin emails and printed materials that will be sent home with your daughter.
Our online auction is made possible thanks to generous donations of goods and services from Hamlin families and the greater community. For example, a Hamlin family might own a salon and donate a haircut and/or massage. Another family might own a vacation home and donate a week-long stay. We’re very open to unusual or creative ideas as well! For more information and/or to donate a good or service, contact Natalie Holland at holland@hamlin.org.
I’ve heard about auction items called Count Me Ins and Faculty All Stars. What are they?
A "Count Me In" (CMI) is an event that draws on a family’s or group of families’ own interests and/or expertise. It can incorporate any strength, interest, or hobby that you bring to our special community. Parents design the event by choosing the activity, the date and location, the target audience (e.g., children, parents, just your class, all classes, etc.), the number of attendees, and the price. Examples might include a themed, home cooked dinner for fellow class parents, candy making lessons for a group of Lower School students, a day at the movies or bowling alley for families, etc. CMIs will go live on January 23; be on the lookout for more information in the coming weeks.
Faculty All Stars are similar to Count Me Ins, but are planned and hosted by Hamlin faculty and staff. Examples might include a spa day with Ms. Yeung and Ms. Frank, a pizza party with Grade 1 teachers, etc. They are fun ways for girls to bond with their teachers and Hamlin staff outside of the classroom.
Still have questions or want to get involved? Please contact Natalie Holland at holland@hamlin.org. We look forward to hearing from you!