Step-by-Step Directions for Gathering Auction Items for the Gala

 

1. Choose a Theme for Your Grade-Level or Business Auction Package

Decide on one of the following general themes—or create your own:

• Date Night (e.g., dinner + a movie)

• Family Fun Time (e.g., bowling + ice cream)

• Group Outing (e.g., escape room + pizza)

• Special Experience or Unique Item (e.g., sports tickets, lake house stay, spa services, autographed items)

 

Keep it simple and fun! Aim for 2–3 items total per package—or one great stand-alone item. Feel free to think outside the box!

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2. Reach Out to a Business You Know

Use your personal connections—businesses you already use or frequent.
Options include:

• Asking for a donated item or experience

• Gathering funds from your grade level to purchase gift cards or item

• Or doing a combination of both

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3. Use the Letter of Request

• Download the official Letter of Request provided by the school.

• Give it directly to the owner or manager of the business you are approaching.

• Important: Follow up! A quick reminder or check-in greatly increases the chance of a donation.

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4. Collect and Submit the Items

Businesses or families may provide:

• Physical items or gift cards – drop these off at any CDA campus or the District Office
  417 Oakbend Dr., Suite #250, Lewisville, TX 75067

• Digital certificates may be emailed directly or forwarded to:
  development@cdalions.org

• Please clearly label items for “Gala” and add who donated or procured the items.

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5. Keep Your Package Simple

To make auction displays clean and easy:

• Avoid complicated baskets with many small items

• Stick to 2–3 items or one standout item (designer handbag, air fryer, etc.)

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Ask Questions Anytime

Your campus Gala Liaisons are available to help! Scroll down for their contact info.
You can also CONTACT: development@cdalions.org​ OR 972-441-4388

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All Auction Items need to be at CDA’s District Office by March 1, 2026

All donations must be collected and turned in now through March 1, 2026. Please help us by filling out the Auction Item Donation Form as soon as possible so we can upload the information to the auction software.