Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
📅 Event Overview & Schedule
1. What is the Think Snow Gala?
The Think Snow Gala is the 29th annual flagship fundraising event for the Snow Summit Race Team (SSRT) and the Big Bear Ski Educational Foundation (BBSEF). It brings together team families, alumni, sponsors, and community members for an evening of food, drinks, and fundraising to support local youth ski racing.
2. When and where will the event take place?
The gala takes place on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Sunnybrook Estate (42488 Moonridge Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315).
3. What is the dress code for the gala?
The dress code is cocktail attire / evening wear suitable for a festive winter celebration.
4. Is this a family event, or is it adult-only?
The Think Snow Gala is an adult-only evening. Offsite childcare is available specifically for race team children.
5. Where can I park at the venue?
Parking is available at Sunnybrook Estate. Designated VIP / Diamond Table parking spaces will be marked, and overflow parking is available across the street.
🎟️ Tickets & Registration
6. How much are tickets for general attendees?
General tickets for community members, friends, and alumni are $100 each.
7. Do SSRT race team families get complimentary tickets?
Yes! Each active SSRT family receives two (2) complimentary tickets. You must claim your tickets on GiveSmart by checking out with the promo code by Saturday, November 21.
8. What is the deadline to RSVP or purchase tickets?
All ticket reservations (both complimentary family RSVPs and paid tickets) must be completed by Saturday, November 21 to ensure accurate seating and catering counts.
9. Will I receive physical tickets?
No. Registration and ticket management are fully digital through GiveSmart. You will check in electronically at the door via QR code or guest name.
10. Can I purchase additional tickets for guests?
Yes, additional tickets beyond your family allocation can be purchased directly on the GiveSmart event page for $100 per person.
🎁 Family Donation Requirement & Baskets
11. What is the SSRT family donation requirement?
Each SSRT family is required to contribute one silent auction or "Luck of the Draw" basket valued at $100 or more.
12. What types of items make great auction donations?
Gift certificates, local experiences, sports gear, vacation rentals, wine, wellness packages, or curated theme baskets. High-value items (such as getaway stays or unique experiences) may qualify for the Live Auction.
13. Is there a buyout option if I cannot contribute a physical basket?
Yes. A $125 buyout option is available for families who prefer not to assemble a physical item. The buyout must be completed on GiveSmart by Sunday, November 29.
14. How and when do I submit item details online?
Submit photos, item descriptions, and estimated retail values directly through the ITEM DONATION FORM on theGiveSmart platform by Sunday, November 29. If you need help, contact Ben at benjaminballentine@gmail.com.
15. When and where do I drop off my physical auction basket?
Physical items must be delivered by Wednesday, December 2 to one of our regional drop-off leads (Big Bear, Inland Empire, or Los Angeles) or brought to Sunnybrook Estate on Saturday, December 5, between 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM.
16. Do I need to include anything with my physical drop-off?
Yes, please attach a completed Donor Slip to your physical basket or item so your family receives appropriate work-off credit.
🏆 Auctions, Raffles & Support
17. How will the silent auction work?
The silent auction will run digitally through GiveSmart. You will be able to browse items, place bids, and set auto-bids directly from your smartphone. You can read the FAQs HERE.
18. Will there be a Live Auction during the event?
Yes! High-value items and unique experiences will be auctioned off live during the evening festivities.
19. I am unable to attend. Can I still participate in the auction or support BBSEF?
Yes! You can bid in the online silent auction remotely via GiveSmart or make a direct tax-deductible financial contribution on the event page.
20. Are contributions tax-deductible?
Yes. The Big Bear Ski Educational Foundation (BBSEF) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (Tax ID: 95-3179353). Formal receipts are provided for all charitable contributions.
👶 Childcare & Volunteer Opportunities
21. Is childcare available for race team kids?
Yes! Offsite childcare is available exclusively for race team athletes/siblings (ages 5 and up) for $30 per child. It includes dinner, crafts, and entertainment.
22. How do I reserve a spot for childcare?
Childcare reservations must be made in advance on the GiveSmart page when claiming your event tickets.
23. Can parent volunteers earn work-off hours at Think Snow?
Yes! Event setup, check-in, teardown, and donor outreach hours count toward your SSRT volunteer/work-off hours requirement. Donating additional auction items (beyond the required basket) also earns 4 hours of credit per item (up to 4 items max).
24. Who do I contact to volunteer for the event?
Please contact our volunteer coordinator, Heather, at heathermacpherson@gmail.com.
📩 Contact & Technical Support
25. Who do I contact if I have trouble with my GiveSmart account or ticket code?
For questions regarding GiveSmart registration, discount codes, or auction submissions, please contact Ben Ballentine at benjaminballentine@gmail.com.