On Tuesday, November 14, 2013, Rumi Forum brought over one hundred people together to discuss the “Ending Poverty” at its Annual Peace and Dialogue Dinner. Participants helped raise money for Habitat for Humanity with a silent auction at Omni Charlottesville Hotel.
Local middle and high school students contributed to the auction by participating Peace and Dialog Art Contest organized by the Rumi Forum. Award winning artworks were included in the auction. Rumi Forum also reached out to individuals and local businesses/organizations to support the auction. American Turkish Friendship Association, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello Museum, Coach Mike London of University of Virginia Football Team, Coach Joanne Boyle of University of Virginia Women Basketball Team, Coach Tony Bennet of University of Virginia Men Basketball Team supported the auction by donating auction items.
All the proceeds collected from the silent auction were presented to Ms. Katie Geisshuesler, Development Manager at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville by the end of the night. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville works to create simple, decent, affordable housing in partnership with low-income families, volunteers and the communities of greater Charlottesville. The organization aims to build at least 20 homes annually in partnership with hard-working local families.
