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Prove Very Successful
Kathy Aubruner, Give Kids The World
Reporting the many generous contributions that GKTW Village received during previous conventions has always been a tight fit for this Village News column. This year, an entire special edition of Funworld wouldn’t be enough to communicate the tremendous energy and kindness the IAAPA community shared with Give Kids The World. In addition to the long-established support of the Village, IAAPA members organized and participated in many new convention activities, including a golf tournament, fashion presentation, and silent auction that raised $54,000.
Golf tournament co-chairs Ed Carroll Jr. and John Graff kicked off the successful events with a best ball scramble for 117 players at the Celebration Golf Club. “To all of you who so quickly and generously responded to our request for sponsorships, in-kind donations, and tournament players, we are especially indebted and grateful,” they said. “We surpassed our expectations, and the Village will benefit from the fun everyone enjoyed at the tournament.”
The spouses of the IAAPA Board of Directors also were successful with the charity events they led, including a luncheon at the Peabody Orlando, followed by a fashion presentation at Neiman Marcus at the Mall at Millenia.
Throughout the week, a silent auction located near the Exhibitor Pavilion on the trade show floor added to the fun. There was an exciting range of treasures to consider, and the bidding became quite competitive. The collection featured more than 70 auction prizes, including artwork, trips, industry collectibles, and even an invitation to have afternoon tea with a lord at the House of Lords in London. Board spouses gathered these items from IAAPA members around the world.
“The donors truly understood the very special function of the GKTW Village and the part it plays in fulfilling wishes and offering a few days’ respite, for the loving families which it serves so well,” said IAAPA Chairman of the Board John Collins and his wife, Cherie. “Our very sincere thanks to each and every one of those companies and individuals for their valued support and generous hearts.”
Other highlights for the week included a delivery of NASCAR toys from Miracle Strip and Shipwreck Island, a $5,000 check presentation from the New Jersey Amusement Association, and an evening of clown performances at the Village by Michael Getlan and his troop of volunteers with International Mixed Nuts without Salt. Even after the close of the convention, donations continued. Spurred on by the offer of show contractor Shepard Exposition Services to transport any of the exhibitors’ excess items to GKTW, manufacturers and suppliers responded enthusiastically. Sharing gifts from their booths were Skee-Ball, Great American Toy Co., Mason Corp., Italian Ice, Ruiz Foods, American Coaster Enthusiasts, Clean Team Co., Lindstrand Technology, Mahoning Valley Mfg., Inc., Bouncing Bins, and NANCO.
Many thanks to all for their continued friendship with Give Kids The World Village. We look forward to seeing you again in Orlando next year!
