As we wrap up 2025 and prepare for 2026, we identify the things we are grateful for and those things we need to improve in the new year. For the Foundation, we are grateful for all the mentors who pour into our students, the academic programs with which we are engaged and, of course, the donations that make the Foundation’s efforts to grow the next generation of precasters possible.
We are busy preparing for another impactful year, and we’re looking forward to our biggest annual fundraiser — the silent auction held in conjunction with The Precast Show. This year we are adding a new challenge for bidders. Who will be THE BIGGEST DONOR? We will be giving an award to the person who pays the most over cost for an item.
Why the Challenge Matters
In the past, silent auction items have too often gone for less than their list price. The NPCA Foundation Silent Auction is a fundraiser. When someone gets an item for less than the value, they have not helped the Foundation. We also know that many of you love a little friendly competition, and this challenge gives you the perfect reason to lean in.
Imagine the impact if every bidder approached an item not as a bargain to score, but as an opportunity to fuel student success. The “Biggest Donor” award is meant to spark that mindset shift — one where giving above value becomes a badge of honor and a point of pride within our community. Join me in putting the potential of the Foundation ahead of a personal good deal.
Where Auction Funds Go
Funds received via the silent auction go directly toward student engagement. Scholarship students participate in monthly and quarterly challenges where they earn prizes up to $100! These micro challenges are a way for students to become more engaged with the foundation and the association with the goal of creating a stronger connection with the industry.
Earlier this year, Chairman Stratis created a new committee, the Student Partnership Program Committee. The Student Partnership Program directly targets college student groups who are interested in a partnership with the Foundation. Student groups can request funds from the Foundation for projects or experiences that serve the needs of the group and that are aligned with the precast industry. So far, two student groups have been awarded funds from the Foundation.
Expanding Student Engagement
You also can join the NextGen Precast Network on EPIC where students are encouraged to post their needs and where members can directly interact and support the students. We are always looking for ways to engage with more students and in different ways. In the coming months we hope to expand our reach outside of college students and begin engaging with a broader group of students. The goal is to find ways to introduce more people to the industry, engage them through activities, events, and programs that will create an impactful image for why they should get involved, and stay involved, in the precast industry. Your contributions to the silent auction and your purchasing of items provides the funds to make that possible.
How to Contribute
We are still actively seeking donations. You can reach out to any NPCA Foundation Board member, NPCA Foundation staff and those who’ve volunteered to help bring in donations, like Barry Fleck and Richard Isaacson, to make your donation to the auction.
So, as you browse this year’s offerings on the Givi app, we invite you to think bigger. Outbid someone not just to win, but to contribute. Stretch beyond an item’s listed value because you’re investing in something far more meaningful. And most of all, join us in proving that our members are not only competitive — but committed to the future of precast.
Together, let’s make this the most impactful silent auction the Foundation has ever hosted.