Ballard Senior Center 26th Annual Gala Auction is coming up

Every year, the Ballard NW Senior Center hosts a big gala and auction to raise money for the organization.

The Spring 4 Seniors gala is in its 26th year, and will be held on Sunday, March 24 from 5pm to 9pm at the Leif Erikson Hall (2245 NW 57th St).

Auction items will include an autographed football by Coach Pete Carroll, a Holland America Cruise, Seahawks tickets, gift certificates for local restaurants, gift baskets and more.

This year, preparations for the event were held back by February’s weather and computer problems.

“This event, our $pring for $eniors Dinner and Auction Gala sets our fundraising tone for the year,” Senior Center Director Carlye Teel wrote in the center’s monthly newsletter. “Frankly, with the snow and preparation time lost, I’m concerned. There is so much to do and losing time sets us back. We really need your help and support to make this the success it must be.”

Their goal for the gala is to raise $80,000 and have 200 guests. Teel says that if you can’t attend the event, you can help them reach their goal by donating an item, asking your favorite merchant for a donation, providing a service, volunteering.

The gala and auction includes a dinner — regular tickets are $60, and benefactor tickets are $80. To purchase tickets, go online, call 206-297-0403, or buy them in person at the center, 5429 32nd Ave NW.

Photo from a previous year’s gala, from the Senior Center’s Facebook page