On October 30, 2010, supporters of Medical Teams International raised a record $1.34 million at the fifth annual Great Adventure Auction at the organization's headquarters in Tigard, OR.
“God blessed us in so many ways at our Great Adventure Auction last Saturday,” said Bas Vanderzalm, president of Medical Teams International. “The generosity and compassion of those who attended was overwhelming. We could not have done this without the incredible efforts of an amazing team of volunteers and staff."
"The gifts we received will support our mobile dental program here in Oregon and help us save lives and end disease in some of the most difficult places in our world today," continued Vanderzalm. "That’s the greatest blessing. That on one special night, we joined together to change the world for hundreds of thousands of people whom Jesus called the ‘least of these’ among us.”
Auction Co-Chairs Scott and Dana Cress and Mark and Ruth Ann Dodson headed up the team of nearly 200 dedicated volunteers for the event. Matt Zaffino charmed the audience with his quick wit as our auction emcee. The BlazerDancers served as guest spotters. Julianne Johnson-Weiss received a standing ovation for her performance of an original song she wrote and composed to honor the suffering children in Haiti served by Medical Teams International. Julianne’s performance led to an inspiring Change-a-Life video and a remarkable Change-a-Life paddle raise response. More than $723,000 was raised!
A special thanks goes out to our partners -- businesses and individuals -- who contributed auction items and cash donations that made our auction event possible. Presenting sponsors, donating $25,000 or more this year, included Alaska Airlines / Horizon Air, Lexus of Portland, Mark and Ruth Ann Dodson, Silicon Forest, Standard TV & Appliance, Marquis & Consonus Foundation and Vital Life.