Last Thursday night was a very special night for the Simmons Employee Foundation. We were able to help two local charities whose work improves the quality of life for so many children and families in the Madison County area.
I am writing to you, not as a partner, but as a board member of SEF. I am humbled and thrilled to announce that the fourth annual SEF dinner auction raised over $200,000 for the Catholic Children’s Home and The William M. BeDell Achievement and Resource Center. The money could not be going to a better cause.
These two organizations provide a safe environment where individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities can learn and grow, and hopefully lead relatively normal lives. The Catholic Children’s Home also provides homes for troubled, abandoned, or neglected youth. Both charities will equally split the proceeds.
Of course, such a huge undertaking could not be done without help from our dedicated and generous employees. To quote John Simmons from the firm’s official announcement, “It is inspiring that so many of our employees and friends, their families and other local businesses have given so generously.”
Thank you to everyone who made the dinner auction, which was attended by about 500 people, such a spectacular and elegant event.
One of the more special moments of the night was when a video was played by ARC. It’s inserted below. Watch it, and you’ll understand why SEF members have done all they can to support organizations like these.
