MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Mennonite Friendship Communities is preparing for its annual fundraising gala, An Evening at the Burt, set for Tuesday, Oct. 28 at the Crystal Ballroom in the historic Burt Building, located at B and Main in downtown Hutchinson.
Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., with live lobby music from “Hand Pan Dan” and a silent auction preview. Dinner and the evening program begin at 6:30 p.m., highlighted by guest speaker Larry Hatteberg — the beloved Kansas journalist known for his long-running “Hatteberg’s People” series spotlighting inspiring Kansans.
Last year’s Evening at the Burt raised funds for exterior upgrades and renovations to Mennonite Friendship’s south entry along Blanchard. This year’s proceeds will focus on revitalizing one of the facility’s South Hall neighborhoods, including new flooring, lighting, and interior improvements. The South Hutchinson senior living community, founded in 1973, is now more than 50 years old.
“It’s time to bring fresh life inside,” said Executive Director Dawn Vay. “Now that we’ve created a welcoming entrance, we want residents and guests to feel that same warmth and comfort throughout the interior.”
The evening also includes an extensive silent auction, featuring vacation packages, unique experiences, and local treasures. Among the top items are a stay in Sedona, Arizona, a Branson getaway package, a 20x20 stamped concrete patio, and an Amish meal in Yoder. Specialty baskets include themes such as K-State in Ireland, Travel Kansas, and Yoder Country Living.
“It’s one of those ‘something for everyone’ auctions,” said Director of Admissions Suz McIver. “Our community is so generous — many of the items are donated by local businesses, supporters, and even friends of our board.”
This year’s auction is fully electronic, allowing participants to bid online before and during the event. Some items are already live for bidding through the Mennonite Friendship website and Facebook page, while a few select packages will be revealed exclusively at the event.
Click here for a link to the silent auction website.
Only 20 tickets remain for the gala, priced at $200 per person or $1,500 for a table of eight. Tickets must be purchased by Thursday, October 23. Reservations can be made by calling 620-663-7175 and asking for Susan Nisly, or online at www.mennofriend.com.
“It’s an evening of good food, good music, and good fellowship — all for a wonderful cause,” Vay added. “We’re proud to continue serving seniors in South Hutchinson and Reno County, and events like this make our mission possible.”
For more information or to start bidding on auction items, visit the Mennonite Friendship Communities Facebook page and look for the green logo to access links for tickets, sponsors, and auction listings.