by Courtney Price

LINCOLNTON – Even in a down economy, leaders with the Lincoln County Rotary Student Loan Fund hope they can bring in a quarter-million dollars from the annual auction April 19-21.

The fund provides a low-interest loan option for people looking to further their education, and the auction is the primary means of fundraising.

“The purpose is to provide funds for eligible people who would like to further their education,” Jerry Park, of the Denver-Lake Norman Rotary Club, said. “We provide a lot for four-year college students, but also for community college and anyone who wants to further their education.”

The auction, which raised more than $124,000 last year, is in its 19th year. The fund has provided loans for more than 1,300 students, and Park said every bit of that has been paid back.

“It is a fun way to help raise money for students’ education, get great food, incredible deals and it is something the whole family can do together,” Gaye Howard, CEO and administrator for the Rotary Student Loan Fund, said.

The auction will feature hundreds of items including gift certificates to local restaurants and businesses, furniture, clothing and jewelry, home décor and health and wellness services.

“Many of the auction items are things you already plan to purchase, so why not help students in Lincoln County?” Howard said. “And remember, if you pay more than the value of the item, the additional amount paid is tax deductible.”

The auction takes place in the James W. Warren Citizens Center, 115 W. Main St., Lincolnton. The café will serve dinner from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Auctions run from 6 to 9 p.m. April 19 and from 6 to 11 p.m. April 20 and 21.

People can also bid from home by watching Charter Cable channels 10 or 26, or by streaming the auction online.