Cool Down for Warmth

As part of Dollar Energy Fund’s goal to help local families maintain or restore their utilities, the non-profit organization has created a unique and exciting fundraising opportunity called the Cool Down for Warmth.  On January 25 & 26, 2018, a house of ice will be constructed in downtown Pittsburgh in Market Square.  Willing participants will stay in the house until they have met their minimum fundraising goal of $1,000 for individuals or $2,500 for teams of two or more.  All donations will receive a dollar-for-dollar match from our partnering utility companies and 100% of the donations and matching funds will be used to provide utility assistance grants to local families in need through Dollar Energy Fund’s Hardship Program.

How will it work?

Sign up through Crowdrise to participate in the Cool Down for Warmth event and work towards raising a minimum of $1,000 per individual or $2,500 per team for Dollar Energy Fund.  You will be assigned a 30-minute timeslot (with more time available, if needed) during which you will stay in the house and raise donations to help you meet your fundraising goal.  Once you meet your goal, you will be able to vacate the house and feel the “warmth.” 

How will donations be collected?

Donors can drop off a donation while you are in the ice house, or contribute through your personal fundraising website on CrowdRise.  You will be able to contact potential donors via phone, email, social media, or any other method you wish to solicit contributions.  We encourage participants to recruit as many donations in advance in order to make sure you reach your goal. 

Will there be any incentives?

The ultimate incentive is that you’ll get to help local households who are struggling to afford their monthly utility costs.  Raising $2,500 will provide grants for approximately 16 families.

In addition, exceeding your goal will make you eligible for incentives, such as a complimentary foursome at our annual golf outing, complimentary tickets to our Bowls for Warmth soup tasting, recognition during our Warmathon through an opportunity to go on-air on behalf of your company, and more!

What if I don’t meet my goal?

Dress warm and hope for a heat wave – it’s going to be cold in that house! Seriously though, Dollar Energy Fund will provide you with all of the tools you’ll need to reach out to your family, friends and co-workers and obtain donations, including a solicitation letters, social media messaging and the use of Crowdrise to help you spread the word.  We want you to succeed for the sake of our clients, so we’ll do what we can to help you out.

Visit www.dollarenergy.org/CoolDownforWarmth2018 for more information.