Spring is bringing more than just warmer days, it’s delivering an incredible lineup of experiences, treats, and one-of-a-kind finds through the Ely Young Life Sweet Spring Auction. Imagine premium seats at a Twins game, handcrafted desserts like triple chocolate cheesecake or Tres Leches cake, a North Shore getaway, or bids on custom artwork, outdoor adventures, and local services. From fishing trips and spa treatments to locally made crafts and favorite Ely gift cards, this year’s auction offers something for everyone while supporting a meaningful cause.
Now in its 21st year, the Ely Young Life Sweet Spring Auction has grown far beyond its beginnings as a humble cake auction. Today, it plays a vital role in supporting Ely Young Life, accounting for nearly a quarter of the organization’s local budget. What started with baked goods has expanded into a wide range of donated items including outdoor gear, handcrafted goods, local experiences, and gift certificates generously provided by businesses and community members.
Like many events, the auction shifted online in 2020, a change that proved to be a turning point. That year’s online format became the most successful auction in Ely Young Life history at the time, and it has remained online ever since, continuing to expand its reach and impact.
Alongside the auction, the community is also invited to the Banquet and Celebration on Sunday, April 19 from 1-2:30 p.m. at The Hub (760 E Miners Dr.). Tickets are $10 per person, and the event offers a time to gather, celebrate, and support the work of Young Life in Ely as the auction comes to a close.
Behind every item is a story of local generosity. While some donations come from corporate partners or supporters in places like the Twin Cities and the North Shore, the heart of the auction is Ely. Neighbors, friends, and families give their time, talents, and resources to invest in local youth, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the auction itself.
Those gifts translate into real connection. They help Young Life meet students where they already are; in gymnasiums, at band concerts, and in everyday moments of life and friendship. Funds raised also provide camp scholarships and help cover transportation, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to participation.
This summer, Ely Young Life will be taking students in middle school and high school to Castaway Camp in Detroit Lakes, MN. A smaller group of students and leaders in grades 10-12 will travel to North Star Bible Camp in Willow, Alaska, where they will volunteer for four days helping run WyldLife Camp for middle school students from the Anchorage area, followed by time exploring the remarkable natural beauty Alaska has to offer. In total, 93 students and leaders are set to participate in these three trips.
The online auction is open for bidding now through Sunday, April 19 at 7 p.m., with items closing in stages every 30 minutes from 4 to 7 p.m. More information and access to bidding are available at tinyurl.com/Ely2026.
Young Life is an international, inter-denominational youth organization that seeks to go where kids are, build authentic friendships, earn the right to be heard, and introduce them to Jesus Christ while helping them grow in their faith. All students, regardless of background or identity, are welcome.
