OSA Families and staff members can support this effort in a few key ways:

• Contribute items to the silent auction. These should be new items, ready to auction off. Old (vintage) items might be good if in very good shape and if they have artistic and/or collectible value. They could include things like a bottle of wine, an unread book, a handmade piece of clothing, a gift basket, a service such as dinner for 4. Use your imagination and we'll worry about the category! We are hoping each family and each department at the school can contribute something. If your resources are limited, get together with some friends and put several items together, throw them in a basket, and give it a name.
• Solicit donations in your neighborhood. Go to the places you shop and trade and talk to the business owners or managers. People like to help and, even if they say no, we've gotten the word out about OSA.
  • Download this Letter. Print copies that you can give to local business owners and managers. It explains the event and the cause, and it includes the APT's federal tax ID number.
  • If a merchant or other potential donor wants to think about it or discuss it with a partner, write your name and phone number on the letter so he or she can call you later. Then follow-up in a few days.
  • The above letter includes a "Donation Certificate" which you can use when you obtain a donation. Fill it out, or ask the donating merchant to complete it (and make a copy for his or her records). Mail completed forms to APT, Attention Karen Sternstein, 530 - 18th Street, Oakland, CA 94612.
• Download and read this Letter to the OSA Community from the Winter Gala Team.
• Finally, support the auction by coming to the Winter Gala and BIDDING! We expect to have many great items to offer.