More than $16,000 was raised during a recent charity auction organized by real estate professionals.

Tim Hopkins, president of the 400 North Board of Realtors, said the group's event Oct. 13 drew about 160 people.

The organization is open to real estate agents in Dawson, Forsyth and Lumpkin counties.

The auction, held at Achasta Golf & Country Club in Dahlonega, raised money for three organizations that provide Christmas gifts for children in need: Angels Over Forsyth and the Dawson and Lumpkin Family Connection groups.

"The $16,640 raised will be split between the three counties," Hopkins said.

He said this was the second year for the event, which last year drew more than 200 people and generated about $14,000.

"So we had less people, but raised more money this year," he said. "It was a fantastic event."

Hopkins said the auction likely will be held for several more years to come.

"As long as there's still interest out there, it's something we'll likely keep doing," he said.