BARNEGAT – The senior class at Barnegat High School is urging residents and local businesses to lend their support to an upcoming gift auction that funds Project Graduation, the long-standing program designed to give graduates a safe, alcohol- and drug-free celebration after commencement.
The annual Senior Class Gift Auction is scheduled for February 7, in the Barnegat High School media center. The event is the primary fundraiser for Project Graduation, which provides a fully supervised, no-cost celebration for the Class of 2026.
Organizers said the success of Project Graduation depends heavily on community involvement. The auction will include more than 200 prize baskets and high-value items donated by local businesses and residents, with all proceeds earmarked for the post-graduation event.
Senior Class Advisor Astin Williams said Project Graduation is about more than entertainment, emphasizing its role in keeping students safe during a milestone night.
Doors will open at 1 p.m., with ticket calling beginning at 2 p.m. Admission is $5 and includes one Level 1 ticket sheet, a hot beverage and a baked good. The auction is open to adults 18 and older, and winners must be present to collect prizes.
A discounted pre-sale package is available for $65, a value of $80, for those who purchase by Friday, January 30. The package includes admission and a bundled set of tickets for all prize levels. Pre-sale purchases must be made by check or money order payable to “Barnegat High School Class of 2026.” Tickets sold on the day of the event will be cash only.
The senior class is also accepting last-minute donations, including gift cards, raffle items, themed baskets or monetary contributions. Businesses or individuals interested in donating or seeking additional information can contact parent volunteer Liz Bacskai at lizbacskai@gmail.com or Astin Williams at awilliams@barnegatschools.com.
