The 2nd Annual Nicholas D. Sergi Foundation "Family, Farm & Faith Festival" was held on October 10th and we haven’t stopped smiling since! During these uncertain COVID times, we were unsure how to carry out a fundraiser, but we knew the need this year was going to be even greater than normal. We decided on a virtual event and a much smaller goal, but boy did you all step up! Thanks to the generosity of so many individuals we raised over $100,000! As Nick would say, “You crushed it!”
We hosted a small family gathering at Sergi Farms, and thanks to modern technology we were able to live stream the event and host the silent auction online, so everyone around the country could participate! We know there were a few watch parties, including one at the local watering hole, Lauderdale Landing, and many graciously participated in our online silent auction. We quickly surpassed our initial goal of $25,000, THEN, an anonymous donor offered to match every dollar over our goal! The silent auction raised nearly $27,000 and donations reached over $40,000 and by the time we tallied it all up with the match…we were in awe. If Giving Makes You Smile©, then our cheeks may never get a rest.
Pastor Ken from Southern Lakes Evangelical Free Church joined us to give the blessing for the day and remind us all of Nick’s deep faith and generosity. A big shout out to the Breakfast Club 80’s Cover Band for stepping in last minute to keep us rocking all afternoon. Also, it was wonderful to hear first-hand from Maryann Zimmerman, the Walworth County Food Pantry general manager, how they have been able to use donations from NDS Foundation to provide nearly 16,000 meals for folks in the area and host a full Thanksgiving Dinner in 2019.
What a great way to begin a season of sharing, gratitude and most of all giving. Nick, your legacy lives on in your farm, family, faith, and in all those who were lucky enough to call you friend. Smiles all around!
Please enjoy the photos from the Festival and we look forward to next year when we can all celebrate together!
