The Simpson Guild hosted the 34th annual Elves Auction to raise funds toward various scholarships for Simpson College students.

The auction took place on Nov. 16 in Kent Campus Center where Simpson Guild members were treated to refreshments and various Christmas treats while a variety of Christmas items were auctioned off.

Two tables, ‘Home Sweet Home’ and Santa’s Sweet Shoppe,’ had treats available for purchase at a low price.  

Auction services were provided by three gentlemen from the Putney Auction Service located in Indianola. They have been covered this event since the beginning, according to Leslie Held, member of the Guild.

“This event provides an opportunity for the Guild members to get a start on their Christmas shopping,” Held said. 

Elves were responsible for bringing items to the members that purchased during the auction. The elves vary from year to year with student organizations, but a group of men from the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity house and a group of cheerleaders took the rein of responsibility this year.

Last year, the Simpson Guild was responsible for collecting $45,000 worth of funds, according to Held. Half of these funds were generated by the Elves’ auction itself.

The Simpson Guild comprises of members from the metro-area. The members work to create different fundraising opportunities in which they attend and donate their money. The funds are then divided among various organizations and scholarships at Simpson, including:

• the concession stand, direct scholarships, EWG (Evening, Weekend, & Graduates) scholarships, discretionary need-based funds, artwork for the Kent Campus Center and student volunteer service project award.

During the year of 2012-13, the Guild was available for the generous donation of $28,050.

“We know that our budget doesn’t cover everything, but we want to be able to provide money for students to be able to stay in school,” Held said. “Students come from all kinds of situations and we want to help them.”

The Guild was created 69 years ago, with 2014 marking the 70th year, by a small group of women wanting to work and make a difference for Simpson students, according to Held.

The mission of the Simpson Guild is as follows:

• the purpose of Simpson Guild shall be to bring the intellectual and cultural resources of the college to the membership of the Guild, to coordinate the interest of all members working for the development and general welfare of Simpson College, to enlist friends for Simpson College and stimulate their interest in securing funds for scholarships and campus improvements.

Events planned for the future are the Holiday Tour of Homes on Dec. 13 and 14, when members will visit several Indianola homes that have been decorated for the holiday season. Also occurring will be a guest speaker on Feb. 8 and a spring style show and brunch on April 12.