Birchtree Benefit for Learning Features 200+ Prizes to Win on Nov. 14 at Black Rock Sports Club

Local holiday shoppers will have a chance to bid on more than 200 prizes while supporting Birchtree’s autism programs during the nonprofit’s 15th annual Benefit for Learning Auction on Saturday, Nov. 14 in Portsmouth.

Presented by Black Rock Sports Club, the event begins at 7 p.m. at the club’s venue at 140 West Road. The evening includes live and silent auctions, raffles, games, live music, appetizers, drinks and desserts.

Auction items donated by local businesses range from coastal getaways and restaurant gift cards to golf outings, ski passes, home furnishings and family entertainment packages. Bidding proceeds will help fund Birchtree’s autism programs at its day school in Portsmouth, in Seacoast public schools and in local communities.

New to this year’s auction is music by Matt Gelinas of Matty and The Penders. Presenting sponsor Black Rock Sports Club, also a new partner this year, offers a restaurant, live events, virtual sports simulators, games and free on-site parking.

"We’re thrilled to work with the Black Rock team to host our auction at a venue that specializes in entertainment and fun," said Sandra Pierce-Jordan, Birchtree’s executive director.

Returning sponsors include Service Credit Union, Kennebunk Savings Bank, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, Partners Bank, the Pak Eagle Pines Trust, and John and Nicole Sharpe, along with 15 VIP table hosts.

While VIP tables are sold out, individual tickets are available for $35 in advance at https://www.birchtreenh.org/auction or by calling 603-433-4192. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $40.

For those who cannot attend or who prefer to begin their shopping early, online bidding for select prizes opens Monday, Nov. 2 and includes "buy it now" options for many items. Pre-bidding runs through Nov. 12, after which top online bids will transfer to bid sheets for the live event on Nov. 14. Free registration for online bidding is available at https://www.birchtreenh.org/auction.
 

About Birchtree

The nonprofit Birchtree supports individuals with autism and other diverse abilities by providing personalized education and outreach programs that promote inclusion, independence and holistic growth. Thirty-two public school districts rely on Birchtree’s expertise, sending students to Birchtree’s day school in Portsmouth and/or bringing Birchtree experts into their public schools. Birchtree serves over 700 individuals per year, including children, adults, family members and school staff.