Yaak WINGS Benefit to return in May

After curtailing their event in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the organizers of the Yaak WINGS Benefit are moving full steam ahead with preparations for this year’s fundraiser.

Sandy Beder-Miller, one of the event leaders, said the group will hold all of its traditional festivities including auctions, raffles and $10 dinners at The Yaak River Tavern and Mercantile on May 15. To allow for social distancing, all events will be outdoors under tents.

Along with Yaak WINGS Walkers, Yaak WINGS Benefit raises funds for Lincoln County cancer patients and their families with costs not covered by insurance.

Last year, Yaak WINGS Benefit organizers saw a dip in funds when they pared down their event to a raffle. Whereas the group raised more than $37,000 in 2019, they were only able to secure $4,450 in 2020. Beder-Miller said the pandemic has not stripped the needs of struggling cancer patients and their loved ones. Within the past year, organizers have seen some of their beneficiaries pass away.

Beginning at noon, the organization will hold several pre-live auctions. Attendees can enjoy popcorn, hotdogs, massages, a silent auction and music. Yaak WINGS will raffle off a chain saw, float trip and a gun. At 4 p.m., the group will begin offering its complete $10 dinner. The organization’s live auction will kick off at 7 p.m.