Marco AAUW Fundraiser at Island Country Club

Seventeen years ago, Lynn Tuttle organized the First Time, Talent, & Treasures Luncheon and Auction as a fundraiser for the Marco Island Branch of AAUW (American Association of University Women). The tradition has continued with each year surpassing the last in monies collected. The annual fundraiser enables the Branch to do the following:

• Provide grant money to help fund the Big Cypress Educational Program for every 6th grader in Collier County. 
• Sponsor girls entering the 8th grade to attend a week-long camp (Tech Trek) at an east coast university.
• Support the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders NCCWSL, which is a 3-day conference.
• Provide a scholarship to one female H.S. Senior 
• Provide Martha Yates scholarships to women 21 or older (working or living on Marco Island, Isles of Capri, or Goodland).

These Scholarships and Grants support AAUW’s Mission to promote gender equality and economic security.

This year’s event was held in February at the beautiful Marco Island Country Club. Members and their guests gathered to support AAUW’s mission. When lunch was served, the Silent Auction ended. The items won were delivered to the winners as they enjoyed a delicious salad with either Chicken or Salmon. Following a decadent chocolate dessert, the Live Auction began. 

The items bid on are meals (for 8-10) prepared and delivered by branch members. This year’s meals were an Italian Dinner, a Greek Dinner, a French Dinner, a Brunch Feast, and the most popular American Dream Dinner, which was the most spirited bidding to date. 

Tracy Frazzano, Marco Island Chief of Police was the guest Auctioneer. While Tracy claimed to have no experience as an auctioneer, she was a natural. Tracy kept the bidders (and audience) in stitches. Job well done, Chief!