Since 1993, the Vermilion County Peer Court Program has existed to help give first-time juvenile offenders an alternative to the traditional justice system, allowing youth to take responsibility for their actions through a court process led by their peers. And every February the program’s primary fundraiser, the Peer Court Auction, takes place once again at Turtle Run.
And this past Friday evening, February 6th; the crowd was more than ready when the doors opened at 6 PM. Peer Court Executive Director Katie Osterbur says they owe these special nights to great community support, as well as some previous Vermilion County Peer Court Program beneficiaries.
(1st Picture) Auctioneer Paul Sermersheim. Vermilion Co Peer Curt Board President Reggie Vincent, Peer Court Executive Director Katie Osterbur, and emcee Tom Wagner.
AUDIO: It feels so good to see everybody come out to support us and the work that we do. It’s always shocking; and it’s always just an exciting night to have. And we have a couple kids who did the program, who are now adults, and now they volunteer. Or like, they donate to the program. It just feels good to know that they kind of kept it with them, and want to give back.
As the auction was about to begin at 7 PM, emcee Tom Wagner and auctioneer Paul Sermersheim made the annual walk towards the stage. Sermersheim says the timing for this event is always just right.
(1st Picture) Vermilion Co Peer Court Board President Reggie Vincent welcomes everyone to Friday’s Peer Court Auction at Turtle Run.
AUDIO: It’s the greatest night. It brings a lot of people out that have cabin fever during February. They love it; they look forward to this event. We have awesome donors, and wonderful people that come and bid on things. And it’s a great way to promote our program.
Early indications are that $55,000 was the amount raised from this year’s Peer Court Auction. Thanks to everyone who donated and participated!
