On the afternoon of May 11th, the Fo Guang Shan BLIA held its first charity auction at the Main Shrine of Xiang Yun Temple, with over 100 participants. The proceeds from the auction will support Fo Guang Shan's youth education and culture and art activities, the Austin Asian Family Support Services, and the iACT Refugee Education Program.
The auction featured more than 150 items, including Buddha statues, landscape oil paintings, jewelry, household items, and gift certificates, all donated by members and the public. The items were vetted by the auction committee and listed on a dedicated auction website, enabling online bidding and on-site open bidding. The highest-priced item was an exquisite four-panel antique screen, which sold for $1,100. Unsold items will continue to be available for online bidding.
During the event, the temple’s "Golden Cowboys" band performed, Fo Guang children served tea and snacks to guests, and three invited musicians delighted the audience with selections from classical operas. The atmosphere was filled with joy, marking the event as a successful auction!