Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Season of Light Gala and Auction?
The Season of Light Gala and Auction has been a holiday tradition
for nearly 20 years and a major fundraiser for Children’s Hospital
and Regional Medical Center. This festive, formal affair is held at
The Fairmont Olympic Hotel each year the weekend after
Thanksgiving. The event includes silent and live auctions, fine dining,
entertainment and dancing It is considered the event that launches
the holiday gala season in Seattle. While traditionally it has taken place
with the Festival of Trees - this year the Festival of Trees will take place the
weekend prior to Thanksgiving. For more information on the Festival of Trees, please visit http://www.seattlefestivaloftrees.com.
What is Children’s Hospital?
Ranked as one of the best children’s hospitals in the country by U.S.
News & World Report and Child magazines, Children’s Hospital and
Regional Medical Center serves as the pediatric referral center for
Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. Children’s Hospital is an
independent, private, not-for-profit regional pediatric center located
in Seattle, Washington. For more than 100 years, Children’s mission
has encompassed excellent pediatric patient care, education, research
and child advocacy with a commitment to provide care for children
regardless of race, sex, creed, ethnicity, disability or ability to pay.
Children’s believes all children have unique needs and should grow
up without illness and injury. With the support of the community, Children’s is committed to preventing, treating and eliminating pediatric disease.
Where Does the Money Go? What is it Used For?
Proceeds from the Season of Light Auction will benefit Uncompensated Care at Children’s Hospital. Last year, the hospital provided more than $65 million in uncompensated care, an increase of more than 50 percent from the previous year. Sometimes medical insurance doesn’t cover the needed treatment, sometimes maximum lifetime insurance benefits are depleted, and sometimes a family simply can’t afford insurance. It is comforting to know we have a place where all children receive not only the care they need, but some of the most advanced care in the nation…no matter what.
What Portion of my Donation or Event Ticket Is Tax-Deductible?
IRS regulations state that certain items received as part of your donation are considered goods and services received and may not be included in your tax-deductible donation. As a Season of Light donor, the value of the tickets to the event ($125 per ticket) is not considered to be a part of your donation. Please note, the entire gift amount benefits Children’s regardless of the tax deductible portion of your gift.
