MANITOWOC, Wis., ‑ Roncalli Catholic Schools is celebrating the success of its inaugural Bids n' Bites fundraiser, which raised $300,000 to support the school's mission of providing academic excellence rooted in the Catholic faith.
 
The event combined two long-standing Roncalli traditions—the International Food Fair and the Pierside Auction—into one community celebration, bringing together alumni, parents, parishioners, faculty, staff, grandparents, students, sponsors, and friends in support of Catholic education.
 
"One of our goals was to create an event that remained rooted in community while strengthening support for our students and mission," said Roncalli Catholic Schools Director of Advancement Candice Giesen. "Seeing so many members of the Roncalli family come together truly demonstrated what One Faith. One Mission. One Roncalli. means. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and commitment of everyone who made this event possible."
 
The evening featured a variety of local food vendors, silent, online, and live auctions, raffles, food, and fellowship, offering guests a new experience while preserving many of the traditions that have made Roncalli fundraising events successful for decades.
 
The success of Bids n' Bites was made possible through the support of or generous event sponsors—the Benjamin Thomas Foundation, Dr. Matthew & Stacey Culligan, and Sheboygan Physicians Group – Sheboygan Cancer & Blood Specialists—along with many other donors, food vendors, volunteers, and countless individuals who dedicated their time and talents before, during, and after the event.
 
"As with any first-year event, we'll continue to learn, make improvements, and build on this strong foundation," Giesen said. "The overwhelming support we received confirms that Bids n' Bites has a bright future and will continue to make a meaningful impact on our students and our schools."
 
Roncalli Catholic Schools extends its sincere appreciation to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, attendee, and supporter who helped make the inaugural Bids n' Bites a tremendous success.
 
The second annual Roncalli Catholic Schools Bids n' Bites is scheduled for Saturday, May 1, 2027.
 
About Roncalli Catholic Schools
Roncalli Catholic Schools is a faith-centered, student-focused school system committed to forming disciples of Jesus Christ through academic excellence, character development, and service. Serving students from early childhood through high school, Roncalli provides a rigorous and nurturing educational experience rooted in Catholic values. Through strong academics, vibrant faith formation, and a wide range of co-curricular opportunities, Roncalli Catholic Schools prepares students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and service in their communities and beyond.