The Savannah Jaycees presented $5,500 checks to representatives from HUGS and Compassionate Friends of Savannah. These donations were made possible through proceeds raised at the Jaycees’ annual Charity Date Night auction, comprised of 25 local men and women.

Eligible bachelors and bachelorettes were auctioned off with with gift cards to various local restaurants for dates. There was also a silent auction for those that did not want to bid on participants.

“All funds raised at the event went directly to our two service partners, Heads Up Guidance Services Inc. (HUGS) and the Compassionate Friends of Savannah,” said event coordinator Lauren Mathews, “We are so grateful for the community support we received, and we are honored to be able to present this donation to two well-deserving organizations.”

Funded by community donations and operated by volunteers, HUGS is a non-profit 501(3) organization making professional counseling and vocational guidance available and affordable to all who need and desire services. For more information on HUGS, visit headsupsavannah.org.

The Compassionate Friends of Savannah is a self-help organization offering friendship, understanding, and hope to families grieving the death of a child of any age, from any cause. TCF has no religious affiliation, and no individual membership fees or dues are charged. All bereaved family members are welcome. For more information on the Compassionate Friends of Savannah, visit tcfsavannah.com.

The two checks were presented at the Savannah Jaycees’ monthly Leadership NOW meeting, a lecture series focused on leadership, management, and professional skills. The series aligns with the Savannah Jaycees mission statement: to inspire leadership growth through community involvement.