Bearfootin’ Auction Brings In $122,800 in Proceeds to Support Local Nonprofits

HENDERSONVILLE, NC -   In an exciting conclusion of a month-long virtual auction, the 22nd annual Bearfootin’ Bear Auction generated $122,800 to benefit local nonprofits, making the auction the fourth consecutive year the auction has surpassed $100,000.

 Three of the bears sold at the Buy Now option for $10,000, which was available through the Thursday leading up to the auction. A total of 61 bidders placed more than 286 bids throughout the auction period.

 A countdown celebration was held at the Historic Courthouse Plaza in Downtown Hendersonville. Nonprofit representatives and volunteers cheered on their bears as bids came in during the exciting final minutes of bidding. 

 "Since 2014, the Bearfootin’ Auction has raised over $838,000 to benefit local nonprofits and Downtown Hendersonville. This incredible achievement highlights the remarkable talent of our local artists and the generosity of our community," said Terrye Jacobs, event coordinator with the City of Hendersonville. "The auction not only supports vital causes but also adds a unique charm to Hendersonville, delighting both visitors and residents every year on Main Street."

 Part of the proceeds from each bear benefit a designated local nonprofit. The first $3,000 of the winning bid is split with the organizing nonprofit, Friends of Downtown Hendersonville, to sustain the event and support the overall Downtown Program. Any amount above the first $3,000 goes entirely to the designated nonprofit (in other words, a maximum of $1,500 per bear will go towards Friends of Downtown Hendersonville).