The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area hosted its annual Night of Hope Oyster Roast and Live Auction on October 25 at the Hartsville Country Club, bringing together community members, donors, and supporters for an evening of celebration and purpose — all in support of the ongoing Hartsville Boys & Girls Club renovation project.
The event, which featured live music, delicious food, and spirited bidding, raised vital funds to help complete renovations at the Hartsville Club. The project’s total cost exceeds $1.4 million, and the organization is currently halfway to reaching its goal.
“All of this is for our kids — our community’s kids,” said one board member during the event. “We want to give them hope — hope for their futures and ours.”
Community Leaders and Supporters Unite
All members of the Hartsville Boys & Girls Club Board were in attendance, including Bill Query, Kathy Brown, Ben Chastain, Keith McDonald, Tarshia Edwards, and Derek Trader. Board member Ben Chastain served as auctioneer, keeping the atmosphere upbeat and encouraging friendly competition to maximize support for the Club.
Guests were treated to a wide selection of food, including fresh oysters, brisket, meatballs, charcuterie, and desserts while enjoying camaraderie and conversation. Attendees were also entered into door prize drawings, featuring local gift cards and items donated by Hartsville businesses.
The evening included a heartfelt moment as the audience celebrated Executive Board Member Bill Query’s 79th birthday. The Club’s youth had created a handmade birthday card, which was presented to him alongside a cake — a surprise that moved him to tears.
Bidding for a Brighter Future
The live auction featured a variety of high-value items and experiences, including two AmFund travel packages — The Alaska Cruise Explorer of the North and The Ultimate Indulgence European Getaway — as well as a private flight to Myrtle Beach donated by Mr. Bob Brown of ISI Robotics, a handmade quilt by Wendy Odom and Re-Tail Therapy, a Santee golf excursion, and several spa packages from The Modern Medical Spa.
Guests also raised their paddles for essential Club items such as art supplies, furniture, and safety equipment, directly funding specific needs for the renovated facility.
Inspiring Words and Renewed Purpose
Courtney O’Neal, an alumna of the Hartsville Club, shared a moving testimony about how the Boys & Girls Club shaped her life, emphasizing the program’s impact on her personal and professional journey. The message reinforced the event’s theme: investing in youth today builds stronger communities tomorrow.
A building renovation update video showcased the project’s progress while addressing the challenges faced — including unexpected construction costs, inflation, and delays. Despite these obstacles, the community’s determination to see the project through remains unwavering.
A Night to Remember
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors, and attendees, Night of Hope was a resounding success — raising not only funds but also enthusiasm and awareness for the Hartsville Club’s mission.
“We are so grateful for the continued support of this community,” said Neal Zimmerman, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area.
