The Renton Community Foundation will hold its spring auction, “The Magic of Spring,” online starting at 8 a.m. this Monday, May 21. It runs through June 1.

The purpose of the first-ever online auction is to raise operating funds for the foundation.

“This is a simple way to raise much-needed operating dollars without competing with other nonprofits or going to all the trouble of staging a live event,” says Lynn Bohart, executive director.

Participants will still have an opportunity of winning some great items, including trips, local dinners at beautiful homes, artwork, jewelry, collectibles and more. And yet, they don’t have to buy a ticket, get dressed up, or go anywhere, she said.

When they bid on an item, they will automatically be alerted if someone “ups” the bid. They can also enter a “maximum” bid and the system will automatically take care of the bidding for them, up to their maximum bid.“It’s sweet,” says Bohart.

The foundation manages more than $6 million and more than 40 charitable funds.

The auction items include everything from gourmet dinners with scenic views to a Maytag washer and dryer from King and Bunny’s Appliances.