The Kiwanis Club of Issaquah annual Community Auction at the Hilton Garden Inn on April 24 was an extraordinary success, raising $71,000.

That was $12,000 better than the club expected.

And so to thank the people of Issaquah who contributed so generously, and to continue their mission of supporting good works in the community, the Kiwanis plan to distribute these funds to worthwhile charities.

The club is now seeking proposals from qualified charities, for grants of between $500 and $2,000.

“As a Kiwanis Club, we place a high priority on funding organizations that serve children,” said Kiwanis Community Auction Chair Keith Watts. “But we fund many other nonprofit organizations that provide vital services to our Eastside communities.”

Each year, Kiwanis Club of Issaquah grants more than $75,000 to dozens of community organizations, as well as providing scholarships to high school students.

In addition to the Community Auction, the club’s other major fundraiser is their annual Salmon Bake during the Salmon Days Festival each October.

Interested groups are encouraged to visit www.issaquah.kiwanis.org for an application.