Staff and volunteers at the Lacombe-based Broom Tree Foundation are counting on the community's continued generous support with the launch of the annual 'Bless the Broom Tree' online auction campaign.
Dedicated to helping women and their families build better, safer, and stronger lives, the Broom Tree Foundation was launched in early 2020 to support women and their families within the community.
"This is our third year of holding the online auction," said Sandra Mulder, a volunteer with the organization. Mulder also provides all of the signage in the Broom Tree's cafe as well via her company Little Bit of Everything.
Meanwhile, she's excited to see Bless the Broom Tree grow as the campaign's launch date approaches.
"Last year, we raised $6,000 so this year, we would like to exceed that," she added.
Currently, staff and volunteers are looking mainly for businesses to donate things like specialty items, services, or gift cards for the auction.
Of course, local residents are also more than welcome to drop off new items, she said.
"We have until Dec. 5 to collect, and then the auction will be launched on Dec. 9."
Those interested in finding out more about the campaign and how to bid can head to 'Bless the Broom Tree Auction' on Facebook, or https://m.elevateauctions.com/Blessthebroomtree.
Tamara Noordhof, co-founder of the Broom Tree, said that the whole concept for the auction was actually spearheaded by Mulder.
"As a community member, she stepped up and said, 'Hey, we really appreciate what the Broom Tree does in the community, and we want to do something to show our support'. It's pretty incredible! And each year, more and more people want to contribute to the auction," she said, adding how the community's support has been so vital to the mission of the Broom Tree.
She added that besides the auction, another seasonal fundraiser they have on the go are Christmas baking boxes. "There are seven different items in each box. We have small ones for $30 which have two of each item, and then we have large ones for $60 which have four of each item," she explained.
"The boxes can be ordered until Dec. 7, and will be ready for pick-up between Dec. 9-14."
For Mulder, it's been a joy seeing how the ministry has grown so much from day one.
"For me, it's the stories. I get to have coffee with Donna (Abma - Broom Tree's co-founder), hear about some of the work they are doing and the passion that is there to help women and families is amazing."
Earlier this fall, the foundation was able to secure funding for the transitional project for another year.
And beyond that, the dream is to complete a capital project one day where there could perhaps be up to 12 transitional housing units available.
In other foundation news, there is a training opportunity for more Broom Tree Sisters to join the organization. This program provides a connection for women who are in need of support.
"A volunteer will come along side, confidentially, to offer support. They provide one hour of direct support each week, and the requirement is that people (serve in the program) for no less than one year.
Last year, The Broom Tree Foundation landed the Non-Profit of the Year award at the Lacombe and District Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala.
The Foundation’s name comes from the Bible story of Elijah, a prophet on the run for his life in the desert who found refuge and rest under a Broom Tree (1 Kings 19). He was exhausted on every level but God saw to his needs, and ultimately strengthened him to continue on in his mission and journey.
For more about the foundation in general, visit www.thebroomtreefoundation.com.
