WIWC fundraiser Friday: 12th annual silent auction

BY ELYSE AMEND

elyse.amend@transcontinental.ca

The West Island Women’s Centre (WIWC)’s biggest fundraiser is coming up, and its executive director Karen Henchey says there will be something for everyone.

The WIWC’s 12th annual silent auction will take place on Friday, and people will be able to bid on everything from gift baskets from local businesses and snow removal contract to Montreal Canadiens tickets and a five-day cruise.

“We have quite a variety,” Henchey said. “We feel that, whoever comes, there will be something they’re interested in.”

The event will take place at the Church of the Resurrection in Pointe Claire between 7:30 and 10 p.m., and will feature a wine and cheese reception. For the fourth year in a row, the hosts of the evening will be CTV’s Christine Long and Beaconsfield Mayor Bob Benedetti. “Our goal is to make it both a social event and a fundraiser,”

Henchey said.

For about 30 years, the WIWC has been providing events, courses, seminars, and support groups for women of all ages, with the overall goal of improving quality of life and breaking isolation.

“When I moved here, I didn’t know anybody, and I had two small children,” said WIWC volunteer Jan Scarpaleggia, adding she used to take courses at the centre and was able to meet many people. “It’s to increase connectedness and break down barriers, and reduce isolation.”

Henchey said she also became a member when her children were young, and was able to connect with other women in the community.

“Today, it’s not like when I was a kid and there were always women around, doing things together,” she said. “Now, sometimes you have to go out and get them […] Our goal is to be here for women.”

The WIWC Silent Auction will take place on Friday at the Church of the Resurrection, 99 Mount Pleasant in Pointe Claire, from 7;30 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For more information, call WIWC at 514-695-8529, or visit www.wiwc.ca.