New Efforts Under Way to Attract Young Donors

Washington and Chicago recently hosted mock-Iditarod races for charity, using shopping carts in lieu of dogsleds, report The New York Times and the Chicago Tribune.

The races reflect a growing trend as younger, often cash-strapped donors seek unconventional ways to have fun and raise money for good causes at the same time.

Activities like mustache-growing competitions, bachelor auctions, and dodgeball tournaments—as opposed to the traditional galas and concerts—seek to engage a new generation of philanthropists who agree with the Chiditarod’s organizers that “fun is mandatory,” the Chicago Tribune says.

The Chiditarod in Chicago raised money for an HIV/AIDS support group, while Idiotarod D.C. donated its proceeds to a local food bank.