KAYSVILLE -- Through the goodness and talents of lots of people, more than $100,000 has been raised to assist in helping victims of domestic violence, here. The annual "Evergreen Festival" Christmas tree fund-raiser and auction is "going to gross well over $100,000," says Safe Harbor Domestic Violence Shelter director Kay Card.

"We had a lot of community support, a lot of individuals coming out, businesses participating," she said. The annual fund-raiser, which includes a live auction and dinner, as well as dozens of trees for sale, was held earlier this month at the Davis Conference Center in Layton.

"We had over 100 silent auction items, from trips to lap tops, and I think people were very pleased with what was offered there," Card said.

"We auctioned two-dozen trees, and the rest we sold on silent auction," she said. "We had them going from a three-foot for $350 to a nine-foot that went for $6,000."

Private groups, families, and businesses donate trees, while the shelter staff always decorates and donates a tree, as well. "That one (shelter's) went for $2,300," Card said.

"I see a lot of people buy trees, then donate them back to the shelter, so we can have them on hand" to help create a festive look for clients, she said.

There were nearly 400 people who attended the dinner, with 19 tables pre-sold at $500 a table, as well.

"It has become quite a well-known yearly event," Card said. "Having trees up and displayed the day before brings in a lot of families and others, who come ahead of the actual event," meaning the auction and dinner on Tuesday evening.

"Having Mr. and Mrs. Claus, with photos for the kids, it all has increased awareness," Card said. "If anything, people know we're here, provide these services for those who are impacted by violence."

The shelter has been open for nine years, and has grown to the point "well over 2,000 individuals a year" are being assisted.

The Evergreen event is made possible through the efforts of a committee that works throughout the year, Card said. Diane North has chaired the committee for 10 years and is now stepping down.

Committee members are always needed and those interested can call the shelter at 444-3191 for more information.

"Our expenses for this event range from 6 to 8 percent for the total event," she says. "It's basically the cost of the room and food," and the Conference Center also provides a discount.

"Almost everything else is donated through others' time, talent and energy," she continued, giving special thanks to Chevron, which provides $5,000 through its Challenge Match every year.

Other generous sponsors include Ivory Homes, Coldwell Banker and Bowman Kemp. "But I also don't want to discount the individual who comes and bids on an item or makes a donation," she said.

tbusselberg@davisclipper.com