So, you want to donate to the auction but you’re not sure what?
Use our handy guide below and then fill out the online donation form.
What can I donate?
What do you like to do? Can it be done with someone else? If so, people will pay for the privilege of your company and all of a sudden you have an auction item! Here are some examples—but it’s certainly not all-inclusive:
| What I Like to Do | My Auction Item Can Be |
|---|---|
| I like to hike | Spring low-elevation hike Wildflower hike Hike with our kids Hike a 13-er |
| I like to go to museums or art exhibits | Go with me to the (name of museum) exhibit Take our kids to the zoo! Ride the Georgetown Loop |
| I like to cook | Cooking class to teach your favorite recipe Dinner or lunch party (think of a fun theme!) Cookie decorating party for kids Donate a baked item |
| I like to do crafts | Christmas ornaments making party Learn to knit (or crochet or embroider!) Kids craft day Donate a handmade item |
| I like to go the theater and sporting events | Offer use of your season tickets Dinner and a show |
| I like to bike | How to maintain your bike (or offer a bike tune-up) Bike trip to _______. Kids bike trip to a local park with picnic |
| I like to play games | Games night for adults (one specific game or a variety) Games day for kids Host a round of golf or pickleball game |
| I like to get away | Offer a stay at your vacation home Host a camping trip |
It just seems too daunting to donate an event!
Join with a friend – or several friends – to donate an event! Maybe one person can offer the venue while another cooks half the meal and you split the cost. JUCers have come up with all sorts of creative ways to join with each other to offer events as a group in the past, and we’re confident you can do the same!
What if I’m new to JUC?
Donating is a great way to meet people! Use the chart above to decide on an activity to donate and you’ll meet the people who buy your item. Many deep and long-lasting friendships have been created through auction events – who knows, the next year you might even donate an item together!
How about donations from businesses?
Most businesses see donations as a great marketing tool and are happy to donate! Do you have a favorite restaurant, yoga studio, beer pub or craft store? Just ask the owner if they offer donations to nonprofits. If the answer is “yes”, make arrangements to accept their donation. If asked, suggest a gift card or certificate – this will be the most popular among our bidders. Business donors will want a letter from us for tax purposes so that they can write off the donation – you can pick one up from the auction table Sundays or print your own.
What if I still have questions?
If you have questions about donating, please feel free to contact Sara Mellen at JUCAuctionDonations@gmail.com You will have an answer within 24 hours (usually sooner).