(Posted May 2006)
The Benedictine School’s 2006 Spring Benefit Raises Over $360,000
 View of the Silent Auction action in the Crystal Ballroom |
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This spring, it is all about the kids. And with that focus, Benedictine Programs and Services of Ridgely, Maryland, had a very successful 28 th Annual Spring Benefit the weekend of May 5 - 7, 2006 raising more than $360,000. Held at the Clarion Fontainebleau Resort in Ocean City, the area’s premiere fund raising event drew 300 people from throughout the mid-Atlantic region who came together to raise funds that will improve the lives of these special kids.
The weekend featured beautiful weather, a deluxe setting and new and renewed friendships. Benedictine’s Director, Sister Jeannette Murray, O.S.B., described the event and its impact: “Our volunteers do a wonderful job of planning and supporting this event. It is through their efforts that this outstanding event accomplishes so much. Everyone here cares deeply about helping each special child succeed; this weekend puts that caring into action and produces tangible results.”
Highlights of the event included the famous live and silent auctions, with great deals on fabulous jewelry, tours, getaways, art, collectibles, and much more, all donated by businesses and individuals to help the kids. Saturday evening’s climax was a gala dinner and dance, which included the presentation of awards to honor those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to support Benedictine’s mission.
Sister Jeannette presented event co-chairs Mary Ruth and Eugene Higgs of Henderson, MD, with the Father Murray Award for their many years of service to Benedictine. Mary Ruth Higgs is also a past Caroline County Teacher of the Year. Peter Arntson of Arlington, VA, longtime member of the Board of Trustees and tireless worker-behind-the-scenes, received Benedictine’s Volunteer of the Year Award. Mr. Arntson was instrumental in the award of a $1,000,000 grant to the school from the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation of Fairfax, Virginia.