Thank you for your reply, badpants. Our school tried to do a silent auction before I got there. From what I heard it was a silent auction (themed baskets) combined with a different event at the school. They didn't raise much (not even $4,000). Now they are doing lots of small fundraisers throughout the year that require kids to raise money (walk-a-thone, catalog sales, etc.). There is a bingo night with a $5 entry fee for a family. The PTA also asks for a specific amount of money from each family in the beginning of school year.

I keep hearing that PTA doesn't have budget for a lot of programs at school, but they are so important in the low-income community. I offered to organize an auction. Do you think it will be a waste of our time and efforts?

Have you held an auction before, or will this be a first? It's my experience that auctions to benefit schools do not attract outside interest. People need a connection. Parents will come and may even bring family members, friends, co-workers or neighbors. Have you considered a different type of event that has a wider draw, like a 5k or trivia night?

Our school is located in a low-income community. If we organize an auction with a goal to raise $20,000 or more, I am afraid, most of the parents won't be able to afford tickets and/or bid on items. Does anyone have an advice on how to attract the right bidders to come to the auction? Thank you for your advice!