Fowlerville News and Views Online

Torch 180 kicks off Online Auction this Friday, Oct. 15

Torch 180 is excited to announce their 2021 Online Auction, which will be kicking off LIVE on Facebook (Facebook.com/torch180) at 2pm this Friday, October 15.

From jewelry to gift cards to home décor and resort memberships and more, this online auction has something for everyone.

“We are excited about this auction,” said Rhonda Callahan, Torch 180 president. “It is the first big fundraising event we have been able to hold since COVID changed everything in 2020. The program we offer is one-of-a-kind, and life-changing for our students and, often for our volunteers and other employees.

“These funds will all be used to keep the building operational and to provide materials that are essential to the training of the students,” Callahan said. “We are also thankful to all the amazing organizations and individuals who have donated items to this great cause.”

WHEN: Tune in to Facebook/torch180 on October 15th at 2pm to get in on the bidding right away.

ABOUT TORCH 180: Torch 180, based in Fowlerville, is a fully operational coffee shop and restaurant at which individuals who have disabilities are trained to prepare them for employment in the food service industry.

In 2018, Torch 180 purchased the former Fowlerville Library building, located at 131 Mill St., and began remodeling which was completed in February of 2020. Nine students then began their journey, with five more slotted to begin in June. However, in March 2020 the training had to stop due to COVID-19 mandates. Students returned off and on throughout the remainder of 2020, opening the coffee shop and restaurant for limited take-out in September.

Although 20 students have participated at some level in Torch 180 programs since February of 2020, several of them faced home and health situations which caused them to be unable to continue in the program. Additionally, Torch 180 was forced to cancel all fundraising activities throughout the rest of the year, and many new students were unable to join the program, either because they moved or have not been able to return to public work due to COVID-19.

“The 2021 Online Auction will provide funds that will be used to continue training and operating Torch 180 as we begin rebuilding our student base,” Callhan noted, adding that “Every dollar helps!”