Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Gala & Auction?

A dress-up evening of socializing, dining, and fun with both silent and live auctions, games, raffles and dancing…all of which reveal the many talents and interests in our community. The Gala & Auction have been a tradition since 2000. CHA’s first event was held at the Faculty Club on campus at Stanford University.


• Why do we have a Gala & Auction?

1. Fundraising. Money raised from the Gala & Auction (spring) and Annual Appeal (fall) support the operational expenses and CHA’s school tuition assistance program. Fundraising covers the gap between tuition and the full cost of education and formation allowing more who want a CHA education to be able to attend.

2. Fun. To enjoy all facets of our community (parents, teachers, staff, alumni and religious)--from the Toddler program up through grade 8 and beyond-- together. Your presence on April 6 helps to most accurately reveal us as a school family, and the collaboration of volunteers working toward a common goal in advance of April 6 generates fun and friendships.


• What’s included in the ticket price?

Your reservation includes everything: drinks, hors d'oeuvres, gourmet dinner, and entertainment.


• I see lots of options for ticket purchases. Please explain.

First Option: Table Sponsorship Entire tables are available for purchase for a premium. Your group will receive perks depending on the purchase level: Semper ($5000) or Altius ($3000). Table sponsorships can be purchased by a single person (10 tickets included) or shared (2 tickets as part of a group of 10).

Second Option: Individual Ticket A guest can purchase as many individual tickets as they wish. If there is a group of 10 individuals who all want to sit together, please submit as a table of 10.

Third Option: Alumni Ticket A reduced-price alumni ticket is available for purchase for CHA alumni beginning with the class of 2015. Alumni under 21 years of age must attend with a responsible adult. Alumni tables will need at least one adult seated with them.


• Once I’m at the event, what costs are there?

None, unless you choose to bid on and win items in the silent or live auctions, or purchase raffle tickets. NEW this year -- If you choose to arrive early -- which is encouraged -- the lounge bar is open for cash purchases until 6pm when our event officially begins.


• What do I wear?

We encourage you to dress up a little or dress up more than a little- whichever you prefer! Most women wear evening or cocktail dresses, and most men wear suits.


• Where do I sit?

The ballroom doors do not open until dinner service begins. NEW this year -- all seating will be assigned. You are invited to gather parents or friends to create a table of 10, or you can just purchase your tickets and let us seat you! You will receive a table number along with your other registration materials when you arrive so that you can focus on silent auction bidding and relax with others!


• Does my dinner have wine with it?

This year we are not able to have our "Drink it Now” wine. Wine and drinks are available at the bar, and each dinner table will be set with wine, and more is available as needed. NEW this year -- after grace, there will be a special auction of wines to drink with dinner!


• What if I cannot attend on April 6?

NEW this year -- we will have online bidding for the Silent Auction. Parents who are unable to attend will be able to bid (advance registration required) on those items along with those in attendance. ONLY the Silent Auction is included in online bidding.


• What about everything else?

Sign-up parties, Heads or Tails, Live Auction and Last Man Standing will be handled at the event. If you are not attending the Gala & Auction and wish to register for Sign-up parties, bid on Live or make a gift to Last Man Standing, an absentee bid contract will be required. One is included in the program.


• When will I receive the Auction Program?

Traditionally CHA parents and children have a lot of fun perusing the Auction Program, reading the write-ups on the auction items and noting who wants what! Volunteers are working hard with the expectation that you will have the program in hand on March 22!


• How does online bidding work?

Our silent auction this year will be online, meaning that you can bid from your electronic device as long as you are registered and have a bidder number. The process is integrated with your registration. Please note that Sign-Up Parties, Heads or Tails, Live Auction and Last Man Standing are not available to online bidders. Should you wish to participate in those, please submit an absentee bid contract from the program.


• How can I get involved?

The auction committee needs and appreciates all kinds of help from the CHA community. No matter how much or how little help you can give, all is appreciated! Please click the “Volunteer” button on the home page.


• What is Heads or Tails?

Purchase Mardi-Gras style necklaces during the cocktail hour. Before the auctioneer flips a coin, choose your call… hands on your head or hands on your “tail.” If your position matches the tossed coin, continue playing. If not, off comes one necklace. The game continues until only ONE winner is left.


• What is Last Man Standing?

Stand tall for Canyon Heights Academy and remain standing as long as you are able! Every dollar donated will support CHA families who need tuition assistance to attend our wonderful school. Your generosity will enable us to share the benefit of a Canyon Heights education with many families.


• Will I get a receipt for my purchases?

CHA is a non-profit institution. All guests of the event will receive an invoice itemizing the items purchased along with fair-market value. Night-of invoices do not include Last Man Standing gifts because of the time constraints. You will receive a complete acknowledgment letter after the event. If you donated to the event, you will receive a donation acknowledgment letter for the value of your donation. Please refer questions regarding tax implications to your tax professional.