I am surprised by how many organizations work with auctioneers who don't understand the audience. With Google and YouTube any Charity Auctioneer should be able to learn the basics of your group. As one of the top Charity Auctioneers in the country, who also happens to be Jewish, I work with many Jewish organizations as well as Catholic | Christian Organizations. I make sure that they know that I went to Christian School (Minnehaha Academy) and understand the type of donors they will have at their event.
The same goes for Jewish organizations. I find it difficult to understand why any NonProfit would bring in someone who cannot pronounce some of the words in the program and auction catalogue. Additionally I have had many Jewish organizations approach me because I understand and respect their unique Jewish community as well as the traditions. This means dressing appropriately for the event, understanding the dietary laws and how to interact with guests.
Make sure that when you are looking to hire a Charity Auctioneer for you NonProfit Charity Auction that you find someone that is the right fit for your audience |donors. Only through "Knowing Your Audience" will you fit the best Charity Auctioneer fit for your Charity Auction.