Author Archive Suzanne Hull

The Pet Project Midwest has returned for their second year decorating a tree. The organization began in 2009 with the goal of keeping pets in their loving homes and out of shelters.

“The Pet Project Midwest’s mission is to make the world a better place through kindness to animals. Our primary goal is to keep animals in their homes and out of shelters,” explains representative, Kim Hanlon. “Participating in the [Silent Auction] allows us to spread our mission in a unique and festive way.”

“The funds [from the auction] will help us expand our services to our most vulnerable clients currently receiving assistance through our Paws For Life Program,” shares Hanlon. “The program helps the disabled and elderly keep their pets fed and healthy. Many times these folks will use their limited resources to feed their beloved pets instead of the medication and supplies they need. By helping with pet food and supplies, we can remove that burden.”

The Pet Project Midwest will be creating “A gift to the birds” tree for market goers to bid on. The winning bidder will be able to place this tree in their yard, unwrap the “ornaments” and watch the birds feast on a cold winter day.

For more information on The Pet Project Midwest, please visit their website..thepetprojectmidwest.org

We are excited to welcome back Veterans in Agriculture (VIA) to our Silent Auction. They have helped beautify Christkindlmarket Des Moines every year representing their organization with gorgeous trees. This years’ theme is “Red, White, and Blue.”

“After serving throughout the world, our nation’s military is always happy to return to the Red, White, and Blue.  This year’s tree will be all decked out in those colors and not only are these decorations for Christmas, but many can be used to celebrate other national holidays, like the Fourth of July, Veterans Day, Memorial Day and others,” explains Beth Grabau, VIA Executive Director.

Veterans in Agriculture are farmers, veterans, agri-business professional, educators, and other service providers dedicated to empowering veterans to thrive in Iowa agriculture. They provide three main programs/resources to help fulfill their mission statement: The Veterans in Agriculture Network, VIA Resource Guide, Rural America Hiring Heroes, and Find a Farmer Veteran.

“The Silent Auction is a great and unique opportunity for people to learn about our organization. We are able to be in front of an audience that may not otherwise hear about. It is also great fun!” shares Grabau about why VIA continues to participate in the CDM Silent Auction. “Where else can you decorate a tree that represents an aspect of the organization. And what a great way to get in the holiday spirit than to start it by decorating a tree.”

Funds earned with the purchase of this tree will be used to support the services that are provided to veterans as well as active and retired military members. 

For more information on Veterans in Agriculture, please visit their website.www.veteransinagriculture.org

The Des Moines European Heritage Association (DMEHA) Samstagsschule – German for Kinder will be making their second appearance at the Christkindlmarket Des Moines Silent Auction.

Offering immersive German classes to preschool age through 9th grade, from beginners to heritage speakers, DMEHA Samstagsschule strives to provide opportunities for kids to have fun while learning German language and culture.

“As part of our training, we like to introduce our students to German traditions. With our contribution to the CDM Silent Auction, we are excited to be part of Christkindlmarket Des Moines,” explains representative Katrin Nayak. “We would like to purchase additional interactive German language classroom materials, especially for our older students, 5th through 9th grade with the Silent Auction proceeds. Ensuring our students have access to a variety of interesting and age appropriate materials.”

Please visit the DMEHA Samstagsschule- German for Kinder for more information on classes, times, and location.

The Sons of Norway Marsteinen Lodge are back again to add a little Norwegian flare to this years’ Christkindlmarket Des Moines Silent Auction.

“We at Sons of Norway are looking forward again to being a part of the Silent Auction. It gives us a fun activity to do and a chance to get together and team build with each other aside from our regular monthly meeting,” explains Wayne Almlie, Sons of Norway President. “It gives us an opportunity to promote our Lodge name and be involved in an activity outside of our little group.”

The mission of Sons of Norway is to promote and to preserve the heritage and culture of Norway, to celebrate relationships with other Nordic Countries, and provide quality insurance and financial products to members.

Along with supporting their mission, the Sons of Norway will use the silent auction funds to pay monthly bills and treat their lodge to special events, such as a speaker to come and present a program.

To find out more information on the Sons of Norway Marsteinen Lodge, please visit their website.