Six years ago I came to Hollyhock for the first time, on an invitation from a friend. I had recently left my work in food cooperatives, and was feeling isolated as I tried to build a new career. I didn’t know much about this place, or the program in which I was enrolling, but I trusted my friend enough to say yes to her invitations.
What I encountered was unlike any other gathering, or any other place I had been. During my program I connected to people committed to making the improbable possible, and who earnestly wanted to support me in doing the same. I left with a deep sense of community, and a renewed energy for working toward positive social change that informs my work to this day.
All of this was made possible because I was offered a scholarship, without which I would not have been able to participate. And now, I invite you to join me in creating similar opportunities for others by participating in our upcoming silent auction, where you can bid on a variety of exciting items and experiences, and raise funds for Hollyhock’s scholarship fund.
The scholarship I received opened a door to a world of opportunity and possibility I would not have had the resources to open at this stage in my career. Walking through that door has forever changed my approach to solving problems and learning in community.
Scholarship recipient
We know our programs are enriched by welcoming a multitude of voices and experiences that reflect global plurality. Offering scholarships is one of our key strategies to expand program access to marginalized community members. Our goal for the silent auction is to raise $30,000 while offering our supporters experiences and opportunities that are unique to our talented community.
To make our scholarship program possible, we rely on the generosity of our community. By participating in our silent auction, you can help us raise the funds we need to support more participants than ever before.
Last year we granted over $158,000 to 231 people, and we are looking to grant more than $200,000 in 2023.
So what can you expect from our silent auction? We’ve curated experience-driven one-of-a-kind offerings, ranging from luxury vacation home stays to signed copies of books by authors from our extended community.
Some of the silent auction experience highlights include:
- A private mushroom walk with renowned mycologist Paul Stamets
- A bioluminescence Kayak trip for 2 with Cortes Kayaks
- VIP ticket to the Sisters in Psychedelics Summit July 14-16
- A private tour and coffee tasting experience with Becca’s Beans
These are just a few of the many items up for bid at our silent auction. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift for someone close to you, or simply want to treat yourself to something special while supporting a good cause, there’s something for everyone at our auction.
Keep an eye out for updates as we approach the auction launch. Thank you for giving generously to grow our community.
The momentum I built at Hollyhock rippled out into my life and created exciting new partnerships and opportunities. I can’t wait to come back.
Scholarship recipient
