The auction is the longest running fund raising event for the Foundation and its success each year is made possible by the hard work of volunteers. Volunteers from the community, in partnership with the foundation board of directors, call on area businesses, organizations, and individuals to secure items for the live and silent auction.
Each year the auction averages 150 silent auction items and 40 live auction items - the items range from merchandise, to gift certificates, services, hand-made items and special events such as dinners, hunting parties, trips etc. All attendees enjoy dinner and a social hour before the live auction. Check out pictures from the 2016 Big Benefit Auction!
2017 Big Benefit Auction
Join us Saturday, August 26 for the Barton Foundation's 39th Annual Big Benefit Auction, themed "Under the Sea." Tickets are on sale until August 14 and are $45 each or $360 per table of eight. Doors open at 6 p.m. at the Great Bend Columbus Club with bidding on the silent auction and complimentary beer available until 8 p.m. Dinner is served at 7 p.m. and the live auction will begin promptly at 8 p.m. Please note, no one under 21 admitted. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact that Foundation Office at (620) 792-9306 or check out the printable ticket form.
The Foundation Names Old Bill Honorarium
Each year prior to the annual benefit auction, the Foundation board selects a deserving, dedicated donor(s) to be honored in this special way - one year of academic scholarships given in their name. The Foundation feels it is important to recognize excellence in giving and we have been blessed with so many generous and faithful donors that we are proud to be able to offer the community the opportunity to honor them as well. This year the money generated from the sale of Old Bill will honor Rob and Trisha Dove in recognition of their years of support to the Foundation including the creation of their own endowment as well as continued support of other endowments.