Heelan Cowboy Up event focuses on safety

The Sioux City Bishop Heelan 'Cowboy Up'  Auction on April 10 is set to raise funds for safety-focused projects. With 20 live auction items up for grabs, as well as a wide selection of super silent and silent auction treasures, there's numerous items available for all supporters. 

Event leadership includes Doug ’81 and Lisa Nelson (Alumni Chair Couple), John and Jessica VanHolland (Heelan Chair Couple), Cole and Leah ’90 Knapp (Holy Cross Chair Couple), Todd and Susan Roerig (Mater Dei Chair Couple), and Craig and Jennifer Letch (Sacred Heart Chair Couple). 

The event kicks off a day early with a "Sneak Peak" Adults-Only Happy Hour Hootenanny on April 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the O'Gorman Fieldhouse. It’s the perfect chance to mingle, have some complimentary drinks, and preview some of the auction items before the big event. 

The goal for the auction this year is $550,000 for the Heelan operating budget and an additional $275,000 goal for "Fund a Cause.”  This year’s three tiered initiative is aimed at enhancing the safety of Bishop Heelan High School in three areas. Specifically, the first $100,000 raised will go toward the creation of a new "Walk of Faith" — a beautiful new space designed to encourage reflection, prayer, and connection among the Heelan community, while also providing a safe walking area from Grandview Boulevard near the CYO Center to Bishop Heelan High School. 

The remaining funds will help complete two separate parking lot projects. One which will add another exit from the Heelan parking lot area to 11^th Street.  The final project will finish paving the current parking lot and create 40-45 additional parking spaces  while also adding security lighting for our student body ensuring that the school is accessible and welcoming for years to come.

For those who cannot attend, go to the online bidding site at https://one.bidpal.net/heelanauction/browse/all.