2026 Rising Tide Party & Auction will take place Thursday, Aug. 20, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., at Riverside Farm & Learning Center in Searsmont.

"Bringing together community members, nonprofit leaders, business supporters, and philanthropists from across Knox and Waldo counties, the Rising Tide Party & Auction celebrates the generosity and partnerships that strengthen our region," said United Midcoast Charities, in a news release.

Guests will enjoy local food and beverages, a silent auction featuring donations from businesses throughout Maine and beyond, and the presentation of the annual Rising Tide Award for Philanthropic Excellence. The award honors an individual whose generosity, leadership, and commitment to community have made a lasting impact on the Midcoast.

United Midcoast Charities annually provides financial support to more than 40 nonprofit organizations serving Knox and Waldo counties. In addition, more than 60 organizations access UMC's educational programs, nonprofit resources, and capacity-building support each year, strengthening services that benefit communities throughout the region.

"Rising Tide is an opportunity to celebrate the people who make our communities stronger while raising critical funds to support local nonprofits that ultimately serve 1 in 3 people living and working here," said Becca Gildred, Executive Director of United Midcoast Charities. "Every ticket purchased, and every auction bid allows you to invest in more than 40 organizations that address food insecurity, housing, health and safety, and economic security throughout Knox and Waldo counties, all in one night."

The online auction opens on August 1, allowing community members to browse and bid on a wide range of items, experiences, dining opportunities, travel packages, artwork, and gift certificates. The auction also includes a special "Preview Only" category. While these items will be displayed on the auction website beginning August 1, they will not be available for online bidding. To bid on a Preview Only item, participants must attend the Rising Tide Party on August 20, where bidding will take place exclusively in person.

Proceeds from the auction and event support United Midcoast Charities' mission to strengthen local nonprofits and expand their impact across the region.

Tickets are limited, and advance purchase is encouraged.

Tickets and additional event information are available at unitedmidcoastcharities.org/risingtidetix.

United Midcoast Charities plays a pivotal role in providing financial support, strategic guidance, and tangible resources to Midcoast nonprofits providing services in our four focus areas of food, housing, health & safety, and economic security. UMC strengthens these community-focused organizations to achieve their missions more effectively and have a greater impact.