Student-Run Auction Benefits Neighborhood

More than 30 students in a Westmont marketing class have organized an auction to raise funds for after-school programs for low-income Santa Barbara youngsters. Auction for Eastside Alternatives will feature vacation packages, golf outings, artwork, gift certificates and holiday gift ideas and much more on Friday, Nov. 16, from 7 p.m. at Chase Palm Park Center, 236 E. Cabrillo Boulevard. The silent auction ends promptly at 8:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The auction will generate awareness for efforts by Kids Club, All for One and Young Life to create positive alternatives for local children. All proceeds from the silent auction will support another key partner, the YMCA, which provides tutoring, sports and summer camps for Lower Eastside youth.

“Getting hands-on practical market experience is really valuable,” says Peter Kazarian, senior communication studies major. “You can only go so far in theory classes before you have to get involved. It’s great to be marketing for a cause, something that will really make a difference.”

Two previous classes have raised more than $24,000 for charities. Carter Crockett, assistant professor of economics and business, asks his students to choose a charity, solicit donations, promote the event and price the items for the silent auction.

“Recent gang activity and other issues have heightened our concern and underscore the need for Westmont to make more of a difference in the Lower Eastside,” Kazarian says.

Donations will be tax deductible. Credit cards and checks will be accepted at the auction. For more information, contact Professor Crockett at (805) 565-6182 or e-mail Peter at eastside.auction@gmail.com.