JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – A longtime fundraiser that has provided a lot of tuition help for hundreds of students at St. John’s Academy returns October 13th.

The first HOPE Dinner and Auction, an idea originated by then principal-Sister Dorothy Zeller, was a Spaghetti Supper and Auction held January 19, 1992 at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

Now, the HOPE Dinner and Auction is largest yearly fundraiser for the private school. Hours of volunteer service and more has gone into the event to raise money to keep student tuition low.

Committee Chair Stacey Hunt says the event has raised record amounts of money to help offset the cost of tuition and every student who attends St. John’s benefits.

Principal Jeff Trumbauer was recently hired, but says he has seen firsthand the benefits of the large fundraiser.

The event will feature live & silent auctions, a meal, programming and more with all funds going to student tuition assistance.

Trumbauer also provided a little more information about their ongoing capital campaign, which will not be receiving any of the funding from the HOPE Dinner. He says they continue fundraising efforts to reach the $7.5 million goal for expansion and renovation.

Trumbauer says they would experience double the space, add a chapel to the school, and a cafeteria addition.

To get more information about the HOPE Dinner or the ongoing capital campaign, call St. John’s Academy at 701-252-3397.

Listen to a full interview with Stacey Hunt & Jeff Trumbauer below: