Frequently Asked Questions
How do I participate in the online bidding auction?
Get started online through the auction page. Click the 'Register Now' button towards the top of the page and enter your name, mobile number, e-mail. Credit Card information is required to bid.
How does the silent auction work?
We will be using mobile bidding for our silent auction. You will be able to use your smartphone, tablet, or computer to keep up with the status of your bids and continue bidding until the auction closes. You can be the winning bidder wherever you are!
How do I start and continue my bidding?
Bidding for the silent auction will begin at 8:30AM Pacific Time on Friday, September 23rd. Browse the silent auction by going to "Items" on the home page and start bidding on your favorites! Place your bid on selected items, set a maximum bid if desired, and GiveSmart will continue to keep you in the running until you reach your maximum. You must be registered in GiveSmart and give your Credit Card information to participate in bidding.
When will my card be charged for purchases?
All purchases for the auction and donations will be charged to your card shortly after 3:15PM Pacific Time on Sunday, October 2nd. If you would prefer to pay with a check, please contact Tiffany Wong, twong@burninstitute.org.
How can I keep active and know if I am outbid or have won an item?
You will be notified via text if you have been outbid. Keep an eye on your favorite items! If you are NOT receiving the text messages, make sure you have the correct mobile number under your profile. The texts will continue to notify you when you have been outbid or reached your maximum bid. When the silent auction closes, you will also receive a text message if you won any items.
How will I pay for and collect my winnings?
Auction winners are required to make payment shortly after the auction closes from their card on file, which will be automatically charged if you have won an auction item(s). The silent auction will close at 3:15PM Pacific Standard Time on Sunday, October 2nd. Guests in attendance of the 50th Birthday Bash at the Belly Up can pick up their auction item(s) between 3:15pm-4:00pm. See below if you are a remote winner.
What if I am a remote winner?
Remote winners will be contacted the week of October 3-7 after the auction closes to coordinate the retrieval of their auction item(s). Please note: items that are larger than a certificate will need to be picked up from our office Monday-Friday, between 9am-4pm. Winners will need to confirm a pickup date and time. Winners can opt to have their item(s) mailed/shipped if they are willing to cover shipping costs.
**If items are not picked up by November 2, 2022, they will be forfeited to the Burn Institute.
Do you not see your question listed?
Contact the Burn Institute by emailing twong@burninstitute.org or call 858-541-2277 ext. 117.
*Disclaimer: Due to the current and evolving situation with COVID-19, by participating in this auction, you agree that the Burn Institute are not liable if a business or entity is unable to honor its donation in the future. Please note, at this time, all the auction items for sale are valid and the businesses that have donated such items are willing to offer them.