About Karen
Industry Pioneer
Karen Sorbo is a pioneering Benefit Auctioneer and Fundraising Consultant with over 30 years of experience. Renowned for her transformative approach to fundraising events and her unparalleled ability to exceed client expectations, Karen stands as the sole benefit auctioneer to have achieved such a monumental milestone.
3,000 Auctions
With a track record of raising $1 billion from the stage and orchestrating 3,000 benefit auctions, Karen Sorbo specializes in ‘Charitainment,’ a term she coined to describe her unique blend of entertainment and fundraising. Her visionary approach has established her as an industry trailblazer and leader in fundraising innovation.
Dynamic Personality
Karen Sorbo’s achievements speak volumes about her leadership and success in the field of benefit auctioneering and fundraising consultancy.
Notable milestones include serving as the President of the Karen Sorbo Foundation, driving initiatives to address critical global issues, and receiving recognition from prestigious organizations and publications.
A Timeline of Impact
1991
Awarded Mrs. Minnesota International Title
1993
Graduated from Missouri Auction School and Worldwide College of Auctioneering.
1994
Established Karen Sorbo & Associates, assembling a dedicated auction team.
1996
Achieved a significant milestone by conducting over 100 benefit auctions annually.
2002
Named NAA Counselor of the Year
2009
Was a judge at the NAA National Auctioneer Association Annual ICC Championship and transitioned to Professional Benefit Auctioneer status.
2010
Initiated the Auction Associates mentoring program, providing invaluable training and support to aspiring female auctioneers.
2013
Established the Karen Sorbo Foundation, produced the acclaimed documentary film 'Invisible Ones', authored the best-selling book 'Your Inner Butterfly', and transformed orphanages in Port Elizabeth and Cape Town, South Africa.
2014
Constructed a bunkhouse to provide shelter for orphaned children in Kenya, Africa.
2015
Continued to support orphanages through proceeds from book sales.
2016
Honored with the Paul Harris Fellow Award in recognition of service to the Rotary Foundation, their highest honor. Expanded the mentoring program for auction associates, providing comprehensive training and support for aspiring auctioneers regardless of age or gender.
2017
Launched an online fundraising platform to reach a wider audience and support additional charitable causes.
2020
After raising $13 million from stage in a single event to support nonprofits, quickly adapted to new challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic by pioneering virtual fundraising events.
2021
Received industry recognition for outstanding contributions to fundraising and philanthropy.
2022
Expanded international outreach efforts, forging partnerships with organizations in new regions to address global challenges.
2023
Celebrated three decades of unwavering dedication to benefit auctioneering and philanthropy, while eagerly anticipating future initiatives.
Distinguished Awards
Women You Need To Know | Women Speakers Association
Women of Influence Speaker Series | Minnesota Monthly Magazine
Woman of Note | Children’s Hospital Association
Top Five Benefit Auctioneers | NAA
International Who’s Who of Entrepreneurs | International Who’s Who of Entrepreneurs
Mrs. Minnesota International 1991 | Mrs. International® Pageant
Education
Dale Carnegie Training, Professional Speaker, 1990
Missouri Auction School Certified, Licensed Auctioneer, 1993
World Wide College of Auctioneering Certified, Licensed Auctioneer 1993
Professional Experience
1993 to present – Professional Fundraising Auctioneer
1991 to present – Freelance Motivational Speaker
2018 to present – Ordained Minister
1991 to present – Certified Life Coach
2023 to present – Resilience Coach
Meet Our Associates
Karen Sorbo is at the forefront, leveraging decades of experience as a premier auctioneer and fundraiser. Alongside a trusted network, she ensures remarkable outcomes and global impact from every stage.
Sarah Jean Knox
Sarah Jean Knox brings a decade of experience as a Minnesota professional benefit and fundraising auctioneer. Her blend of lighthearted humor and genuine care creates an engaging atmosphere, encouraging guests to eagerly participate in bidding.
Hannah Kramer
Hannah Kramer, a 2011 graduate of the World Wide College of Auctioneering, combines her passion for contemporary dance with her dedication to fundraising. With warmth and sophistication, she captivates audiences, inspiring giving and contributing to the well-being of diverse communities.
Emily Engberg
Emily Engberg, a vibrant TV personality, leverages her humor and people skills to captivate audiences and drive fundraising success. Recognized for her community service since 2000, Emily's engaging presence and genuine connection with people make her a sought-after auctioneer.
Tony Wisely
Tony Wisely, a seasoned auctioneer with over 20 years of experience, empowers organizations to achieve their fundraising goals. His professional expertise, honed at the Missouri Auction School, coupled with his champion-level skills, has helped raise millions for over 175 organizations.
Patty Brunn
Patty Brunn, a certified benefit and fundraising auctioneer, masterfully balances audience engagement with highlighting generosity. With a dynamic personality and authentic compassion, Patty effectively communicates an organization's mission, inspiring generous support in a down-to-earth, engaging manner.
Theresa Farrell
Theresa Farrell is a Benefit Auctioneer, Development Consultant and retired ballerina with almost two decades of fundraising expertise. She is the co-founder and executive director emeritus of American Contemporary Ballet. Additionally, Theresa serves as a Development Specialist for The Wende Museum and sits on the fundraising committee for Girls Inc Los Angeles.
