Martina McBride Hosts Successful Celebrity Auction for YWCA

Nashville, TN (June 11, 2007) – Martina McBride’s YWCA Celebrity Auction brought in an incredible $103,603 on Saturday.  Martina McBride, who has hosted the charity auction since 1995, had the highest bid of the day, pulling in $12,000 with a package thrown together during the auction! After making a few phone calls while on stage, Martina and her husband, John McBride announced that they had secured six platinum albums from Country music superstars Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Keith Urban and Martina herself. Later, an autographed photo paired with a VIP package from Martina brought $7250.  One of Martina’s idols, Reba McEntire, donated a “Meet & Greet” with concert tickets that went for $3400. 

“It is Martina’s genuine support and the devotion of her fans that help make the auction so successful each year,” noted Pat Shea, CEO of the YW.  “It is so amazing to me that once again, Martina has helped us raise over $100,000 in a few hours,” Shea continued.  “Those dollars will help the YW help women and children who need counseling, medical care, support, or emergency shelter as they flee violent homes or break multi-generational cycles of poverty.   We are very grateful to Martina.”

Some other celebrities stopped by to support the YW’s auction including Jason Michael Carroll, Kevin Sharp, Kyle Wyley, Sherry Lynn, DeLana Stevens, and Chris Young. These artists not only donated their time, but autographed photos, signed CDs, and even the shirts off their backs. Jay Teeter supplied and sustained a great energy while acting as the emcee.

Verizon Wireless sponsored the Celebrity Auction for the third consecutive year.  Verizon Wireless supports the YWCA’s initiative to provide tools and education for women to improve their lives, as their national philanthropic efforts also work to prevent domestic violence.  The Verizon Wireless Hopeline (phone recycling program) puts wireless products and services into the hands of domestic violence victims and non-profit agencies that serve them.

Other sponsors include the CMA Music Festival, Carl Black Chevrolet, Wrangler, Gibson Guitars, The Grand Ole Opry, Irving Materials, WSIX, Ambiance by Parker and Belle Meade Frames.