Naples charity wine auction brings in $14 million
Published January 27th, 2008
The annual Naples Winter Wine Festival auction raised $14 million for local children’s charities today, the organizers reported.
The total was less than the record $16.4 million from last year’s auction, but still more than the $12.2 million raised in 2006.
“We try to do the best we can,” festival chairman Don Gunther said earlier this week. “With the slow economy, though, that might not happen.You never know.”
“Everyone involved in the festival — sponsors, donors, chefs and vintners, trustees, volunteers and guests — helps thousands of children in need through their contributions,” said Don Gunther, 2008 festival chair and Naples Children & Education Foundation trustee. “The festival is truly a labor of love, and its success pays tribute to our theme of Inspiring Tomorrow’s Heroes.”
A portion of the funds raised at the 2008 festival will be distributed by NCEF trustees to children’s charities in March, with the remainder held in reserve for longer-term strategic-giving initiatives. For a complete listing of auction lots and additional information about the 2008 Naples Winter Wine Festival, visit www.napleswinefestival.com.
