Fanatics, the sports apparel company, has launched the All In Challenge to raise money for Americans struggling to get access to food during the COVID-19 pandemic. The digital fundraiser has so far raised more than $4.5 million.
Fanatics founder Michael Rubin, who also co-owns the Philadelphia 76ers, started the All In Challenge on Tuesday with a post on his Instagram. The challenge asks celebrities across sports and entertainment to offer valuable memorabilia or special experiences that fans can bid on via the Fanatics website. Proceeds will be used to support food organizations such as Meals on Wheels, No Kid Hungry, America’s Food Fund, Feeding America, and World Central Kitchen.
As part of the campaign, participants have been recording themselves accepting the challenge on social media, explaining the gift or experience they’re offering, and then challenging other athletes or public figures to also participate in the challenge. Some of the giveaways are being done through auction, while others involve a sweepstakes where consumers can purchase tickets for as little as $10 for the chance to win. Winners will be selected randomly.
Highlights from the sweepstakes include MLB executive Joe Torre’s offer to throw out the pitch at the next World Series, watching batting practice and grabbing dinner in New York City with Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge, playing golf at Pebble Beach with Justin Timberlake and Bill Murray, and receiving a private skateboarding lesson with Tony Hawk. Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is offering the chance to sign a one-day contract with the Mavs, with the guarantee that the winner will appear in a game to shoot a free throw as the crowd chants, “MVP! MVP! MVP!”
Fans with deeper pockets can participate in auction challenges. For example, Golden State Warriors owner Peter Gruber is auctioning his 2015 championship ring for $50,000. The current highest bid to have Peyton Manning come to your hometown for a round of golf and dinner is $70,000, while Tom Brady is auctioning off the chance to attend the Buccaneers’ home opener in Tampa Bay, his game-used jersey, and dinner after the game. Will Ferrell is auctioning off the chance to sit with him in the owners’ box at an LAFC game; or if basketball is more your taste you can bid on the chance to play a 3-on-3 game with Shaquille O'Neal and four of your friends.
