Articles

Nelson early learning centre Active Explorers Richmond is holding a unique fundraising event to support those who helped battle the Pigeon Valley Fires.

On April 27 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm the centre will open its doors to the public to host a giant garage sale and silent auction. A swag of high-end treats will be up for grabs, such as vouchers for Vivo Hair, My Food Bag and Rack Boutique, not to mention an array of quality preloved items including clothing, toys and furniture. There will also be a coffee cart and sausage sizzle.

“This is our way of acknowledging the hard work that was carried out during the fires by many community services such as the local fire volunteers, HUHA, SPCA and the Salvation Army. One hundred percent of all proceeds will go towards these agencies and charitable trusts,” says Active Explorers Richmond Centre Manager Karmin Marchbanks.

Children from the centre – some of whose families were directly affected by the fires - have already showed their appreciation for these vital community services by making cards and cupcakes.

“This event will inspire another round of conversations with the children about the different services that helped to put the fires out and how people helped evacuees.”

Centre children are now working hard to create colourful labels for all the items to be sold. Staff too have been working round the clock, particularly ECE teacher Karissa Roberts.

“Karissa was involved in the larger community support for the people evacuated during the fires.  They collected donated items to give to the evacuees but had such an overwhelming response that many items were left over after the event. Karissa felt they could be put to good use by holding a garage sale and combining this with a silent auction featuring items donated from local business. It is a nice way for the community to give back to the services that helped so tirelessly during this difficult time.”

While Active Explorers Richmond has previously contributed to causes such as the Cancer Society and the Heart Foundation, this is the first time they have put on such a large fundraising event.

“It’s going to be a great event and we really hope lots of locals come along to support this worthy cause.”

Any businesses wanting to donate items for the silent auction please contact Karmin:
Phone - 03 5447611
Email - cm.richmond@activeexplorers.co.nz