Soroptimist International of Auburn recently raised more than $31,000 to fund projects that battle human trafficking, along with many other worthy service projects in the Auburn area.

The funds were raised at the organization’s annual Cupid’s Caper fundraiser in February at the Landmark Event Center in Des Moines. The “Clue”-themed event included actors from the Mystery Makers troupe who encouraged guests to purchase silent auction items and play raffles and games while acting out scenes of a Clue game murder mystery.

As part of the fundraising event, Soroptimist selected an Auburn Youth Resources (AYR) Youth Outreach Program that works with youth living on the streets as the recipient of the Caper’s “Fund a Need.” During this portion of the event, guests are asked to “Fund a Need” by making contributions specifically to the selected charity. This year’s total donation amount was more than $7,000.

Primary sponsors of this year’s event were the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, Waste Management, Segale Properties, MultiCare Auburn Medical Center, GRCC Foundation and Casne Engineering.

Soroptimist International of Auburn has raised more than $580,000 through this event over the past 19 years to support women and children in need.

Some of the projects supported include:

· Washington Women’s Education and Employment, helping women become self-sufficient.

· Shelter for Sisters, a program to assist the newly homeless in our community.

· Domestic Abuse Network’s Kids’ Club Program (DAWN) – Providing education and support to children who have witnessed domestic violence.

· Scholarships to women who are heads of their households and must overcome difficult circumstances – homelessness, serious illness or domestic violence.

· Three safe houses for battered women and their children in Auburn.

· Establishment and Co-chairing of Auburn Fire Medic Fund, supplying Firefighter/EMT’s with fully equipped aid cars, cardiac defibrillation units, special rescue equipment, educational grants and a thermal imaging camera.

About Soroptimist International of Auburn

Soroptimist is an international volunteer organization for business and professional women who work to improve the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world.  Soroptimist International of Auburn was chartered in October, 1947. The majority of the club’s funds are raised each year through its annual fundraiser, Cupid’s Caper.