This year’s Mardi Gras event for the Powell Medical Foundation pulled in an estimated $11,400, including nearly $1,000 in cash donations, after about $3,400 in expenses.

The event, which is the foundation’s biggest annual fundraiser, had to go to a virtual auction this year due to COVID-19 concerns. The organization was unable to hold its regular sit-down dinner and party, which cut into the fundraising amount. 

In 2019 and 2020, the event pulled in nearly $20,000 in total, including the regular auction. Considering the unusualness of this year’s event, Powell Medical Foundation Executive Director Megan Pfefferle said it went well. Pfefferle said she was hoping to hit $10,000, and some thought that was optimistic.

“There was some hesitation, because it was a whole new concept,” Pfefferle said. 

Most of the bidding for the auction was done through a phone app. Even though PMF lost out on sales of tickets, beads and alcohol from the dinner event, this year’s auction did better than last year’s auction.

Pfefferle attributes it partly to the prizes they offered, which included a range of price points for a diverse group of bidders.

“The committee worked very hard on getting some out-of-the box items,” Pfefferle said. 

She also said that having the auction online expanded its reach. Some people don’t necessarily want to attend a sit-down dinner, Pfefferle explained, and people from outside the area could also participate.  

“There were names on the bidders’ list that I didn’t recognize from last year’s ticket sales, including some from out of state,” Pfefferle said. “It’s really kind of cool.” 

She said the auction’s results show there’s an opportunity for PMF to broaden its reach: People will support a cause if it’s communicated well. 

As an example, Pfefferle points out that some kids born at Powell Valley Healthcare move away. They still have family here, as well as memories, so they maintain a connection to the community. 

“That doesn’t mean they won’t support us. That means we need to reach them,” Pfefferle said. 

She said the online format also facilitates electronic payments, which is more convenient than mailing in checks.