Mercy Academy hosts annual 30th Benefit Off Broadway

Mercy Academy's largest annual tuition assistance fundraiser marked a milestone this year, celebrating its 30th birthday in style on Saturday, February 8. Themed "BOB's 30th Birthday Bash," Benefit Off Broadway (BOB) brought together the Mercy community for a night of excitement and generosity - all in support of student tuition assistance. Since its inception in 1996, BOB has been a highly anticipated tradition, held annually on the second Saturday of February. The evening featured thrilling live and silent auctions, raffles, the ever-popular Wheel of Chance, a $25,000 Capital Price, and more, making it a celebration to remember.

A key part of BOB's success is the incredible dedication of Mercy Academy students, who play an active role in making the event unforgettable. Many generously volunteer their time on a Saturday night, helping ensure the evening runs smoothly. Others contribute their talents by creating stunning artwork - paintings, ceramic vases, and even a painted chair this year - that become sought-after auction items, raising additional funds for tuition assistance. Beyond the event itself, students are deeply involved in the BOB campaign, working hard to sell tickets for the $25,000 Capital Prize and donating money to go toward creating raffle and silent auction baskets, demonstrating their commitment to supporting their school and fellow classmates.

Through proceeds from BOB's Birthday Bash, approximately $276,000 was raised for tuition assistance for Mercy Academy students.

The event was originally know as The Benefit On Broadway, reflecting Mercy Academy's location at 1176 East Broadway. After moving the Fegenbush Lane in 2007, the name was changed, but the mission has remained the same: to provide opportunities for students from all backgrounds to receive the high-quality education offered by Mercy Academy.

The evening kicked off with a birthday celebration, as guests sang "Happy Birthday" and each table enjoyed a 30th birthday cake. Throughout the evening, attendees had the chance to dance to live music from DownStage Live, try their luck at opening a treasure chest containing $500 cash, participate in the bourbon pull, or play Heads or Tails for a prize of cookies made by a Mercy student. The event also featured opportunities to win live auction items, raffle baskets, Wheel of Chance prizes, and participate in the silent auction.

Along with the generous support of attendees, the event's success was also made possible by event sponsors, auction item donations and vendor partners, including Ladyfingers Catering, Morris Deli and Rent & Rave.

According to Valerie Downs, Special Events Coordinator at Mercy Academy, half of Mercy Academy students benefit from our tuition assistance program, underscoring the importance of this annual event.

"Aid from this and other fundraising events help to make their Mercy education possible and allow us to welcome students from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds," she said.

To learn more about BOB, click here.