2019 Auction

Your attendance at the Great Hearts Gala reflects your support of the children and families that we serve throughout metro Detroit. Taking home an amazing live-auction item is a bonus win-win: you leave with an unforgettable package AND your auction gift goes an extra mile in brightening the futures of Starfish children and families!

Award-Winning Getaway to New York City

Dreaming of seeing Hamilton again? Haven’t seen it yet? Now is your chance to catch the Tony Award-winning musical on Broadway in New York City. Your whirlwind getaway includes 2 orchestra tickets to Hamilton, plus a viewing of The Rachel Maddow Show from the control room with a behind-the-scenes tour of the MSNBC studio. Package also includes $500 gift certificate towards a stay at the Library Hotel, and dinner at a NYC eatery with University of Michigan-Dearborn Provost Kate Davy.

Note: Trip does not include airfare. In the unlikely event that there is breaking news or unexpected special programming, visit may have to be canceled/rescheduled.

The Pappy Van Winkle Legend

Based in Frankfort, Kentucky, the special reserves produced by the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery have become legendary in the premium bourbon industry. They are also extremely difficult to find. But we did. And so we bring you Pappy Van Winkle’s 12-year-old Special Reserve Bourbon,
a sweet, full-bodied whiskey with flavors of fruits and spices laced with caramel from the butterscotch start to the savory finish.

Celebrate Thanksgiving Detroit-Style

Start the holiday season right with 2 tickets for the exclusive Hob Nobble Gobble on Friday, November 15, 2019. Held at Ford Field, this black-tie affair is a premier Detroit holiday tradition, and features parade characters, fabulous food, midway rides, and surprise celebrity appearances. Also includes 4 VIP viewing section tickets for the 93rd annual America’s Thanksgiving Parade on November 28. Plus, an overnight stay at the masterfully renovated historic Detroit Foundation Hotel.

Zulu Nyala South African Photo Safari

A once-in-a-lifetime bush adventure to the Zulu Nyala Game Reserve in Hluhluwe, South Africa. This unique wilderness area is a lush stretch of paradise, home to a variety of animals . . . from the majestic elephant to rhinos, hippos, and giraffes. Includes 6-night stay at the luxurious Zulu Nyala Safari Game Lodge, 3 meals per day, and 2 daily safari drives.

Note: Trip does not include airfare, drinks, additional meals, or extra activities. Trip is valid for 2 years.