The WPA "Raise the Paddle" Auction Brings Purpose and Energy to Sunday Evening
Sunday evening at the WPA Annual Meeting is reserved for one of the most anticipated and meaningful events of the conference: the WPA "Raise the Paddle" Charity Auction.
The evening begins at 5:00 PM with a combined Reception, Buffet Dinner, and Exhibit Showcase, giving attendees time to reconnect after the day’s sessions, enjoy a relaxed meal, and browse exhibitor displays. At 6:00 PM, the focus shifts to the auction itself - an energetic, entertaining event that has become a highlight of the Annual Meeting.
The auction is led by Bill MacCauley, a retired pallet company owner and professional auctioneer whose experience and humor keep the pace lively. His ability to engage the room turns the auction into a fundraiser that blends good-natured competition with a strong sense of purpose.
Proceeds from the auction support Pallet Foundation initiatives in support of the industry. The Foundation counts WPA among its member organizations, and the auction has proven to be one of the most effective ways to generate support while bringing members together in a relaxed setting.
The range of auction items is part of what makes the event so appealing. Auction items span a wide variety of interests and budgets, from fishing trips and collectible wines to handcrafted and artisanal items. The diversity of items allows participants to engage at a level that feels comfortable, whether bidding on a single item or competing for a standout experience.
Veteran attendees often recommend arriving with a pre-arranged budget in mind. Doing so makes it easier to participate confidently and ensures you won’t hesitate when a particularly interesting item comes up. Many attendees find that planning ahead allows them to enjoy the auction more fully while still supporting a good cause.
While individual tax situations vary, contributions made through the auction are generally tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law, making participation both meaningful and practical.
Blending camaraderie, entertainment, and purpose, the WPA "Raise the Paddle" Charity Auction offers a fitting close to Sunday’s agenda.
AM5 Meeting Primer