Shamrock

Join us for an exciting evening with St. Joseph parents, staff and supporters at the school’s largest fundraiser. The 2020 Shamrock Gala will take place Saturday evening, March 28 at the Best Western Longbranch. This annual gala includes gourmet food stations, silent and live auctions, games, drinks, live musical entertainment and more.

In recent years, Shamrock proceeds have provided funding for gym renovations, technology upgrades, new windows, bathroom renovations, as well as supported field trips and school activities. It is truly because of the generosity of our parishioners, neighbors, school associates and families and the business community that Shamrock is such a success.  And that success translates directly into success for the children at our school!

Connect with us on Facebook. Enjoy a sneak peek of the auction items that you’ll have the opportunity to bid on and see photos from previous years.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter of Shamrock or taking part for the first time, we hope the following FAQs will give you an idea of what to expect.

What is Shamrock & why should I attend?
Shamrock began in 2000 around St. Patrick’s Day as a fundraiser for St. Joseph Catholic School. The Denim & Diamonds theme of the event emphasizes that you can come dressed down or dolled up—your presence is most important.

Back by popular demand, we are offering gourmet food stations in lieu of a plated dinner to allow guests the ability to eat when they wish and provide more time to mingle, socialize and make new friends. It is our hope that these changes will result in a more enjoyable evening of fellowship for our St Joseph community.

How can I make a donation for the Shamrock auction?
We are fortunate to be part of a generous parish and community. It is this reason that Shamrock is such a success.  If you have an item or service that you want to donate to the Shamrock auction to help in its success, please contact Kathleen or Joni at shamrock@sjcsmarion.org or call the school office at 377-6348. Donors will be recognized in the program and your donation is tax-deductible to the greatest extent allowed by the law.

How do I get tickets to Shamrock?
Invitations and accompanying reply cards will soon go home with St. Joseph Catholic School families and participants in the parish’s Youth Faith Formation program. They will also be mailed to past Shamrock attendees.

Tickets are $40 per person and include substantial hors de`oeuvres, plus evening entertainment. Commemorative wine and beer glasses with beverages included cost $25 in advance and $30 at the door. You may also purchase extra tickets should you wish to cover the cost for a St. Joseph staff person to attend the event.

What does one wear to Shamrock?
We continue the Shamrock theme of Denim & Diamonds. We want to emphasize to everyone that you can come dressed down or dolled up—what’s important is that you’re there to support faith-filled education! You will see the gamut of dress there: people who want a relaxing evening wearing nice jeans and shirts to people who enjoy getting dressed up in cocktail dresses and suits for a night on the town.

Will there be assigned seating?
In lieu of a plated dinner we’re offering gourmet food stations, so there will not be assigned seating. This will allow you to eat when you wish and provide more time to mingle, socialize and make new friends.

How can I encourage and get information to others so they too can attend Shamrock?
Help spread the word and invite your friends and family to attend this fun event! We encourage those beyond the St. Joseph community to attend. Call the school office at 319-377-6348 to request to be added to the mailing list. “Like” us on Facebook and recommend others “like” us, too!

What do the proceeds from Shamrock go to support?
Each year, the funds raised from the event are used to support special projects at the school like gymnasium renovations, Promethean boards and special arts programs. The funds from last year were used to install new carpet throughout the school. This year we hope to raise funds to help replace the HVAC system which is original to the building.

How do I get a sneak peek at the Shamrock auction items?
The committee is hard at work securing travel packages, sports packages, jewelry, art and more! Visit our Facebook page in the coming months for some photos of the priceless items St. Joseph students and staff have been creating for the occasion.

What is the entertainment for the evening?
Expect a wonderful evening of auctions, games, socializing, eating and live acoustic music.

What time should I arrive at Shamrock?
Doors open and bidding on the silent auction items begin at 5:30 p.m. The earlier you get to the main ballroom at the Longbranch, the earlier you can stake out your desired items and socialize! The food stations will be available from 6-8 p.m. and the live auction will start around 8 p.m. Auction items may be purchased with cash, check or Smart Tuition.

Here are 10 things you can do to support Shamrock 2020

1. Like and share our Facebook page {Charger’s Shamrock, Marion IA}
2. Consider joining the planning committee – we love new ideas and like to have fun.
3. Donate an item to the silent auction – we’d love to showcase your talents or feature your business. Donations are requested by early February in order to be included in the event brochure.
4. Ask your employer to donate or sponsor – remember it’s for the kids! Drop us a line at shamrock@sjcsmarion.org if you have ideas to share or need the sponsorship details.
5. Purchase and sell 50/50 raffle tickets {available beginning in February at the school office}. The more we sell, the more you could make as the winner takes half the cash!
6. Call the babysitter and make your reservation to attend Shamrock on Mar. 28.
7. Start saving your cash – the auction items are awesome!
8. Volunteer to help set-up the day of the event – many hands make light work.
9. Sponsor a complimentary teacher/staff ticket – it is a gesture that speaks volumes.
10. Invite friends or family members to join you – all are welcome!