Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 1, 2024 CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, [email protected] Pam Posthumus Signature Auction to raise LANSING, Mich. – Every Michigan child deserves to live in a safe and nurturing environment. To help make that vision a reality, Children Trust Michigan (CTM) today announced its 22nd Annual Pam Posthumus Signature Auction, Tuesday, May 14, to raise critical funds for child abuse awareness and prevention initiatives across the state. “Child abuse remains a pressing issue affecting countless families in Michigan,” said Suzanne Greenberg, CTM executive director. “The auction serves as a beacon of hope, channeling resources toward vital initiatives that protect our children and create safer communities.” Supporters, advocates and community members will gather at the Breslin Center on the campus of Michigan State University to participate in this impactful event. With the theme “The Heart of the Matter,” the annual event kicks off at 5 p.m., showcasing a dynamic live auction as well as hundreds of silent auction items. Supporters can bid on once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunities, Michigan-made products and other distinctive experiences. The silent auction opens Tuesday, May 7, for early bidding. The auction is in memory of Pam Posthumus, a tireless advocate for preventing child abuse who served as a past board chairperson of Children Trust Michigan and started the first signature auction event. She died Aug. 18, 2010, and the annual auction was renamed the Pam Posthumus Signature Auction Event in 2011. This year, CTM looks to generate funds for life-enhancing initiatives including family resource centers across Michigan, parent support and education. A nonprofit housed within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), CTM serves as an unwavering voice for Michigan’s children and families. “Children Trust Michigan exists solely to protect and enhance the health, safety and welfare of Michigan’s children and families. The Signature Auction is at the heart of our annual fundraising efforts, raising essential funds for community-based resources,” said Greenberg. In addition to the renowned auction, the event honors CTM’s 2024 Champion for Children. This year, Dr. N. Debra Simms will receive recognition for her notable career as a child abuse pediatrician. Her contributions extend beyond medical practice as she actively seeks innovative solutions to protect children from abuse, making her a true champion for children. The honorary co-chairs for the 2024 auction are Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director, and Jason Griffin, vice president of state government relations, Hemlock Semiconductor, LLC. Joining them are Legislative Co-Chairs Senator Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, House Speaker Joe Tate, Senate Republic Leader Aric Nesbitt, House Republican Leader Matt Hall and House Republican Floor Leader Bryan Posthumus, son of the auction’s namesake. For sponsor and ticket information, visit childrentrustmichigan.org/ Find out more about CTM’s child abuse awareness and prevention program as well as local resources at ChildrenTrustMichigan.org. |
Auction to raise funds for child abuse prevention
