I believe I have the cure for your post-holiday blahs. It is Jan. 31.
With three standout nonprofit events — the Oly Funk Fest, the Stayla and Loc-Oly Auction, and Seas the Night gala — there’s no shortage of ways to give back, enjoy live entertainment, make a meaningful impact in the community and get those good feelings. These events blend fun, philanthropy and local culture, offering something for everyone.
First up on Jan. 31 is the Stayla and LOC-Oly Auction, a major fundraising gala hosted by United Way of Thurston County.
This event, which will be held virtually, brings together community leaders, philanthropists and supporters of United Way of Thurston County’s mission to address the sources of poverty in our area.
I may be a bit biased toward this event as I work there, but I know it will be amazing. It supports real and lasting change in our community.
The auction features a variety of items and experiences donated by local businesses, including art, gift certificates, private dinners and more.
All funds raised during the auction will go toward supporting United Way’s programs that focus on improving education, financial stability and health for Thurston County residents.
The organization’s efforts range from providing access to early childhood education to supporting affordable housing initiatives and health services for vulnerable populations.
This event is an excellent way for individuals and businesses alike to join the collective effort to tackle systemic challenges and foster a more equitable future for everyone in Thurston County.
You can bid on items even if you aren’t attending. Find more information at: https://www.unitedway-thurston.org/annual-stayla-and-loc-oly-auction
Second up, for people who want to celebrate while supporting youth education and engagement, the Seas the Night gala hosted by the Hands On Children’s Museum (HOCM) is the perfect event.
Also taking place on Jan. 31, this highly anticipated annual fundraiser is a celebration of the museum’s mission to inspire lifelong learning through interactive exhibits and programs designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children. I have been to the museum with my nieces and nephew and probably had more fun than they did.
The theme for this year’s gala, Seas the Night, invites guests to embark on an oceanic adventure, with decorations, entertainment and activities reflecting the wonders of the sea.
The event will feature live music, an exciting silent auction, delicious food and beverages, and an immersive atmosphere that transports guests into an underwater world.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the museum’s newest exhibits and learn more about the educational programming that continues to make a positive impact on the children of Thurston County.
All proceeds from the evening will benefit HOCM’s outreach initiatives, which aim to make hands-on learning accessible to all children, regardless of their socio-economic background. Hurry and get tickets before they sell out: https://www.hocm.org/event/seas-the-night-21/
And finally, The Oly Funk Fest, hosted at The Olympia Ballroom on Jan. 31, is a must-attend event for music lovers.
This funky celebration is designed to raise funds for local music and arts programs in Thurston County.
Featuring an incredible lineup of bands, the Oly Funk Fest promises to deliver a night of high-energy performances, new takes on old favorites and infectious grooves.
I don’t know much about funk, but I was told that the grooves are indeed infectious, but in a good way.
Proceeds from the event will benefit Oly Funk Fest, a registered charity with the state of Washington. Currently Oly Funk Fest is supported by the PARC Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting local musicians, music education and arts access in the Olympia area.
Beyond the live performances, the event will include opportunities for attendees to learn more about local arts programs, connect with like-minded individuals, and participate in silent auctions or raffles that feature locally donated items.
The Oly Funk Fest aims to bring the community together for a night of fun, music and impact, all while helping to fund initiatives that enrich the cultural landscape of Olympia. More information can be found at https://www.olyfunkfest.com/
That’s a whole lot of fun in one day. Mark your calendar for Jan. 31 and consider attending one or more of these incredible events.
Your participation, whether through attending, bidding or donating, will have a lasting impact on the people and programs that make Thurston County a better place for all.
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Snevets
Thank you for this terrific information. They all sound like a great way to beat the Winter blues!
Wednesday, January 8 Report this