Mid-Willamette Community Action Agency Harvest Festival Fundraiser – FAQ
What is the Mid-Willamette Community Action Agency? The Mid-Willamette Community Action Agency is committed to supporting individuals and families facing homelessness and poverty in our community. Key programs include:
- ARCHES Homeless Project: Providing shelter, resources, and services for the homeless.
- Taylor’s House for Youth: A safe shelter for youth experiencing homelessness, offering support and services to help them get back on their feet.
Event Details:
What is the Harvest Festival Fundraiser? The Harvest Festival is a fun, community-focused fundraising event to support our homeless services, including the refurbishment of Taylor’s House for youth.
- Date: October 30th
- Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Willamette Heritage Center with tons of great parking (1313 Mill St. SE, Salem, 97301)
Why should I attend? We know traditional fundraisers can be stuffy and uncomfortable, so we’re throwing out the overbaked chicken and awkward auctions! This event is designed to be relaxed, fun, and inclusive, with live music, great food, and exciting activities. The event reflects the values of our organization. We promise a good time regardless of your capacity to give.
What’s included with my $40 general admission ticket?
- Access to the event, which includes NA beverages, a charcuterie spread, and dancing to live music.
- A photo booth by Fitzpatrick Painting.
What activities can I enjoy for an additional cost?
- Cake Walk: $20
- Tarot Reading: $20
- Face-painting: Multi-tiered pricing based on the design
- Human Slot Machine: By donation
- Professional Portraits: $40
- Sweet Treats: $5
- Masks (made by youth in shelter): $5
- Silent Auction: Bid on art-carved pumpkins and other spooky items!
What is the “Showcase of Cakes”?
Local bakers are donating cakes that will be displayed at the event, and each one will go home with a lucky winner during the Cake Walk. It’s a fun way for bakers to showcase their talents and for guests to enjoy amazing creations while supporting our cause.
I’m a baker. How can I get involved?
Simply donate one cake to be featured in the showcase. Your cake will be viewed by over 200 guests, and business cards will be displayed alongside your cake to promote your baking business.
What’s the focus of the fundraiser?
This year, we’re focusing on raising funds to refurbish Taylor’s House for youth. To make it fun, we’re offering guests the chance to donate to fund improvements. These gifts will be represented by items in a Goth Doll House!
- Examples of donations:
- Pillow: $50
- Lamp: $75
- Chair: $100
- Sofa: $250
- Bed: $500
- Big Screen TV: $1,000
Guests can “purchase” doll furniture that represents their giving level and place it in the dollhouse as a tribute of their contribution.
What is the Art-Carved Pumpkin Silent Auction?
Our silent auction features artistically carved pumpkins and other spooky items. Local tattoo artists and other creatives will showcase their best designs on pumpkins, which guests can bid on and take home just in time for Halloween. Like the cakes, business cards will be displayed for artists, offering great exposure for their work.
Are you an artist looking for a new creative endeavor? A business owner wanting to donate to our silent auction?
Contact Director of Development Marie Jennings at marie.jennings@mwvcaa.org or 503-428-3877.
Are there VIP tickets?
Yes! For $100, VIP guests will enjoy exclusive access to a private area with perks including:
- Free tarot readings
- Drink tickets to our exclusive VIP our wine bar
- A VIP-only space to relax and enjoy the evening
Tickets are limited, so act fast!
Can I bring my children?
Due to the adult atmosphere and the serving of alcohol we kindly ask that children not attend.
Is this event 21+?
No, this event is for adults only, but it is not restricted to those 21 and over. Please note that while the event is not 21+, alcohol will be served, and proper ID will be required for those wishing to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages.
What about costumes?
Yes! Costumes are encouraged, but not required. In fact you can purchase a mask made by one of our clients in our youth program.
Costume Disclaimer:
While we encourage everyone to embrace the spooky spirit, we ask that costumes be culturally appropriate, and respectful of all attendees. Costumes should be spooky, fun, or festive, but please avoid anything overly gory, offensive, culturally insensitive, or inappropriate.
Our goal is to create a fun, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone, so we kindly request your help in making sure all costumes reflect these values. We reserve the right to ask anyone in an inappropriate costume to modify their outfit. Thank you for your cooperation!
Who’s providing the music?
We’re thrilled to have Sarah Mutinelli and the WonderBand as our live entertainment for the evening! Known for their energetic performances and eclectic mix of tunes, they’ll keep the dance floor lively all night long. Whether you’re a fan of classic hits, modern jams, or everything in between, the WonderBand promises to deliver a fun and unforgettable musical experience.
Get ready to dance, sing along, and enjoy the great vibes!
Come join us for a spooky night of fun, all for a great cause!