MAYVILLE — Court Appointed Special Advocates of Chautauqua County announces its 16th Annual Come to the Table auction to be held on Thursday, May 9 at The Chautauqua Suites. Doors open at 5 p.m. with the live table auction starting at 6:30. Guests will be treated to hors d’oeuvres, raffles, live entertainment, cash bar and much more. Tickets are $20 and include the chance to win a door prize. The public is invited.

This event offers guests the unique experience of bidding on themed tablescapes created by local artisans and CASA supporters. Come to the Table features about 25 tables on display that guests can bid on. Past tablescape themes have ranged from “A Heroes Dinner” which featured a unique opportunity to treat 11 friends to a delicious homemade spaghetti dinner and tour at the Jamestown Fire Department to a Myrtle Beach vacation tablescape adorned with everything you need to enjoy the perfect beach escape. The highest bidder takes home everything on the tablescape which can include gift certificates, sports memorabilia and more.

Table designers compete for the chance to win an award in one of five categories: most whimsical, most artistic, most original, most elegant and people’s choice. The winner in each category takes home a certificate along with bragging rights for the whole year. This is a much-anticipated event for the entire community and a great opportunity to highlight your group or organization. “Last year was our first year designing a tablescape for CASA’s Come to the Table,” says Julie Wootten, Dot’s Gift Boutique. “We had a great time setting up and meeting the other table designers. The auction was thrilling to participate in, and the best part was knowing we made a positive impact on abused and neglected children in our communities. Fun was had by all.”

Table designer packet is available online at www.ChautauquaCASA.com. Table requirements are minimum. Themed tablescapes may include gift certificates, experiences, antiques and more. Table designer entry form is due by Wednesday, March 27.

Come to the Table offers many ways for local businesses and organizations to get involved while supporting CASA’s mission. Event sponsorships are available that provide exceptional public visibility and recognition during the event.

“This is the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year and has become our signature event. Come to the Table is more than beautifully decorated tables, it is a chance for us to come together and serve the abused and neglected children in our community,” says Kelly Fiorella, fund development coordinator of CASA of Chautauqua County. “There is a sponsorship opportunity for every business that would like to get involved.”

Tickets to the event are $20 and can be purchased from any CASA board or staff member and at the door. To become a sponsor, table designer, or to donate to the basket raffle email Kelly Fiorella at kfiorellacasa@gmail.com. All monies raised from Come to the Table are used to fulfill CASA’s mission of supporting volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children in Chautauqua County. If you are unable to attend but would like to support the mission of CASA, a tax-deductible donation can be made online at www.ChautauquaCASA.com or by sending a check to CASA of Chautauqua Co., Inc. at 2 Academy Street, Suite 5, Mayville, NY 14757.

The mission of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Chautauqua County is to provide an independent voice in court, advocating for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the pursuit of finding safe and permanent homes. CASA of Chautauqua County, Inc. relies on highly trained volunteers who are appointed by a Chautauqua County Family Court Judge to advocate for children in court. These volunteers work with relevant agencies and parties in order to advocate for the best interests of the child. With the information provided by the CASA volunteer, Family Court Judges are better able to make informed decisions as to what is best for the child. CASA of Chautauqua County is a United Way Community Partner.