Benfit for my dad need tips for getting things to auction?

[tobyto]

My dad was recently diagnosed with Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He has no insurance and needs some help with medical expenses. So my brother and I are setting up a benefit for March 17th in a small town in MN. We are looking to find anything that would make people want to bid on at a silent auction. We have never been in a situation were we have to ask for things like this and my dad still feels uncomfortable asking but there comes a time when you just have to be thankful for the kindness of others. So if anyone can give me advise on how to reach out to celebrities or anyone for that matter and ask for their help I would certainly appreciate it. Thanks.