By Amber Alarid, JVA Consulting

JVA teams at the third annual grocery cart race benefiting Comitis Crisis Center.

On Wednesday, January 30, 2013, several JVA team members reported living out one of their childhood dreams. The envy of many friends and innocent bystanders, eight JVAers participated in what can best be described as the social change version of Supermarket Sweep.

An estimated 37 teams raised money to stock the pantry at Comitis Crisis Center, a homeless shelter and rehabilitation center in Aurora. Costume clad teams were then unleashed in Safeway, barreling down the aisles behind elaborately ornamented shopping carts, fighting to gather as many items as they could from Comitis’ wish list in the allotted time.

After a nerve-racking wait at the checkout line and countless photos, the final tally of funds showed that Comitis had surpassed its initial $10,000 goal, nearly tripling the previous year’s grocery cart race income. What made for such a successful and buzz-worthy event?

The fun factor of course! The day of the grocery cart race, colorful wigs, oversized costume jewelry and furry hats began trickling into the JVA office in preparation for the wild night ahead. There was no doubt that the opportunity to wear funky outfits and break out the collective creative and competitive drives fueled the teams.

The ability to connect with likeminded donors. JVA Research Associate Laura Morales said the event was “more than JVA team building––it was community building. The event allowed donors to meet each other and form a bond, and that doesn’t happen when you simply mail in a check.

Angie White and Laura Morales receive their final total at the checkout line.

The affordable fundraising goals. Whether teams were sponsored by their small business/nonprofit employers or were fundraising as individuals, the cost associated with the event was very attainable. Teams of three or four participants were asked to raise at least $25, but were rewarded with more time to shop based on donations of up to and over $250. The flexibility in fundraising goals allowed more teams to participate.

The creativity of the fundraiser. Since the fundraiser is so unique, it appeals to a wide audience of consistent and new donors, as well as myriad media groups.

The community/partner support. Not only did individuals from the community come out to support Comitis, so did the Havana Business Improvement District. Through the District’s support, Comitis was better able to spread the word and attract more participants. Fundraising does not have to be a solo sport.