Live auction items announced for Restoring Hope Gala

Trips, handmade bench, other items availble for bidding

The excitement surrounding the 8th annual Restoring Hope Gala on November 5th is building. One of the areas the St. John’s Ministries Gala committee worked hard at was having robust live auction offerings. This year’s menu of live auction items features three destination trips, a handmade bench by a donor & guest, professional cooking by Chef Champion, a staycation with lodging at the Astor House Bed & Breakfast, and St. John’s Holy Smokes BBQ smoker trailer.

“When the committee and I met months ago to start the planning process for the Restoring Hope Gala, the live auction was one area we were looking to improve,” said Steve Schauer, director of community engagement. “The live auction portion of the night is the time to create excitement. It gives those in attendance a chance to support St. John’s Ministries, while also walking away with a memorable item or experience.”


Below is a list of live auction items that will be up for bidding at the Restoring Hope Gala on November 5th.

Enjoy one of three trips (Italy, Maine or Mexico) at the annual signature fundraising event, the Restoring Hope Gala.

Three trips are available during the live auction at the Restoring Hope Gala, hosted by St. John's Ministries on November 5, 2022.

This trip to Cortona, Italy is among the most beautiful and romantic places in Tuscany. The amazing, never-ending views are enough in itself to create romantic moments. Add classic architecture, genuine hospitality, and farm-fresh foods and Cortona will capture your heart.

This trip for 2 people is for 3 nights (weekend) or 4 nights (weekday). You’ll also receive a welcome bottle of champagne, visit an artisanal jewelry boutique, enjoy a romantic dinner for 2 and experience a chocolate and wine tasting. Booking and concierge service is included.


Three trips are available during the live auction at the Restoring Hope Gala, hosted by St. John's Ministries on November 5, 2022.

Bar Harbor, Maine is known as the gateway to Acadia National Park, one of America’s favorite parks, right on the gorgeous Frenchman’s Bay. Bar Harbor is beloved by visitors for so many reasons – from the endless outdoor activities to the award-winning dining and accommodations – and it is routinely found on national “best of” lists, including the list of “America’s Favorite Towns”.

This trip for 2 people is for 3 nights in a standard room at The Inn on Mount Desert. You’ll receive daily breakfast, a memorable 2-hour Windjammer sailing trip, and booking and concierge service.


Three trips are available during the live auction at the Restoring Hope Gala, hosted by St. John's Ministries on November 5, 2022.

Enjoy the warm, sunny weather and your choice between three beach-front 4-Diamond restort destinations along the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, where everything has been created for happiness! Enjoy luxurious accommodations, endless pools and world-class restaurants.

This trip is for 2 adults and 2 children for 7 nights at your choice of Nuevo Vallarta, Cancun-Riviera Maya, or Acapulco.


Handmade bench available during the live auction at the Restoring Hope Gala, hosted by St. John's Ministries on November 5, 2022.

Wouldn’t you love to sit and relax with your new Adirondack bench and matching table? This set of hand-crafted furniture was skillfully created by David and Lenny (guests at St. John’s Ministries) and Myron (a dedicated supporter).

In late June David and Lenny, along with two staff members, drove to Myron’s home in Door County to build the Adirondack bench and table. Many memories were made throughout the day before the finished product was completed.


Professional cooking by award-winning Chef Champion available during the live auction at the Restoring Hope Gala, hosted by St. John's Ministries on November 5, 2022.

Enjoy a professionally cooked meal in your home by award-winning Chef Ace Champion. The 19-time award-winning chef will prepare and cook a 3-course meal of your choice from his menu for 8 people.

Chef Champion specializes in Cajun/Creole – the taste of New Orleans! He has 20 years of culinary experience including titles of Cook Like A. Champion TV series Host, Executive Chef, Personal Chef, Certified Meat Cutter, Event Coordinator as well as Cooking Class Instructor. He is also an honors Culinary Arts graduate of Fox Valley Technical College, one of the nation’s premiere culinary schools.


Staycation package featuring the Astor House Bed & Breakfast available during the live auction at the Restoring Hope Gala, hosted by St. John's Ministries on November 5, 2022.

Sometimes it’s easy to visit faraway places without traveling too far from home. That’s the beauty of imagination. And in Green Bay, travel fantasies can be further fueled by a relaxing visit to Astor House Bed & Breakfast. You’ll receive two rooms for two nights and receive outstanding friendship by owners Tom and Linda Steber.

You’ll also receive gift cards to enjoy the fine dining of area restaurants. This package must be used prior to April 31, 2023.


Enjoy smoked BBQ package for 50 people available during the live auction at the Restoring Hope Gala, hosted by St. John's Ministries on November 5, 2022.

Think of the endless possibilities with this package that features St. John’s Holy Smokes, a BBQ smoker trailer. Maybe you could invite your friends over for a night, or host a family reunion or small party.

This package includes smoked BBQ (you choose 2 of 3 meat options) and sides for up to 50 people. It must be used between May and September in 2023.

Subscribe to Our Email List