The 76th annual Hopkinsville Rotary Auction began Monday evening at the War Memorial Building, launching a six-day effort to raise money for local students and youth-focused programs.
The event, organized by the Rotary Club of Hopkinsville, runs April 20 through April 25, with bidding beginning nightly at 6 p.m. and continuing through the week.
This year’s theme, “Spirit of 76,” reflects both the milestone year for America and the club’s continued focus on community impact.
The Rotary Auction is the club’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting education initiatives and nonprofit organizations across Christian County.
In 2025, the auction set a record by raising more than $634,000, and organizers are hoping to build on that success this week.
Funds raised go toward several key programs, including:
- The Rotary Scholars Program, which provides two years of tuition-free education at Hopkinsville Community College
- The Rotary Impact Program, supporting students pursuing careers in high-demand fields
- Grants to local organizations serving youth, with about $185,000 expected to be distributed this year alone
Each night, hundreds of items are auctioned off, ranging from gift certificates and local artwork to tools, appliances and outdoor equipment.
In addition to bidding, the event includes a full Rotary Diner experience, offering lunch and dinner throughout the week. Lunch is served daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with dinner available from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The diner menu features rotating specials and homemade desserts, adding another way for the public to contribute to the cause.
For those unable to attend in person, the auction is broadcast on local radio and streamed online, allowing bids to be placed remotely.
Organizers say that the auction’s success depends heavily on community participation, from donating items to placing bids or simply attending meals during the week.
The event has grown into one of the largest single fundraisers among Rotary clubs worldwide, with decades of impact on local education and workforce development.
As bidding gets underway, Rotarians are once again calling on the community to take part—whether by donating, dining, or bidding—to help continue investing in the future of Hopkinsville’s students.
