It is a masquerade ball full of glitz and glamour, but for the students of STEPS Pathways College it is the meaning behind the mask that makes all the difference.
The 2022 STEPS Grand Winter Masquerade Ball will mark the return of one of the Sunshine Coast’s most anticipated social events.
And while the July 23 event is sold out, Sunshine Coast residents can still do their part to contribute to this important fundraising event.
The organisation has launched the STEPS Grand Winter Masquerade Ball silent auction, with more than 65 prizes available for bidding.
Prizes include a holiday package – including to K’gari or Tasmania – dining and adventure experiences, jewellery, art and more.
There is also an online raffle to win a diamond ring valued at $30,000. The hand-crafted 18 carat gold ring has been donated by Isabella’s Fine and Antique Jewellery.
STEPS Pathways Charity CEO, Anne Nioa, said since its inception in 2017, the ball had raised vital funds for students living at STEPS Pathways College.
“We are the only boarding college in the southern hemisphere dedicated towards creating a brighter future for young adults living with a disability and autism,” she said.
“From learning how to cook and clean, to learning how to write resumes and create a weekly budget, students are taught essential life skills that help put them on a pathway towards independent living.
“But to continue providing these valuable opportunities for its students, STEPS Pathways Charity must raise $25,000 per student per year to cover the shortfall left by NDIS funding.
“For the two-year course this equates to $50,000 per student, proving just how important fundraising events like the Grand Winter Masquerade Ball are.”
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All prizes have been donated to STEPS from businesses on the Sunshine Coast and beyond, with the funds raised from the auction to go directly back to supporting the students at STEPS Pathways College.
“By supporting this year’s silent auction you’ll be directly supporting STEPS Pathways College and helping to create valuable opportunities for young adults living with a disability and autism right here on the Sunshine Coast,” Ms Nioa said.
Bidding is now live and will close at 10.45pm on July 23. Enter the silent auction here. For more information on the organisation, visit STEPS Pathways College.
