How do I participate in the auction? 
Register online! Click the 'REGISTER' button on the auction homepage and fill out your bidder information. Create a password, check the boxes for terms and conditions and text messages (you will want be notified about items you bid on), and then just click 'Create my GiveSmart account'!

Or, if you already have a GiveSmart account, simply click to register and log into your existing account.

How do I bid?
You can bid on any item with your computer, smartphone, or via text message!

You can also have GiveSmart automatically bid for you--up to a designated amount--by selecting the Auto Bid tab. Enter your highest bid amount and we'll increase your bid as needed to keep you winning until your amount is reached! You will receive a text notification when you have been outbid at your highest amount entered.

On Your Phone: Click the blue link in your welcome text message (from when you registered) and it will take you to your personal bidding page. Click on an item you would like to bid on. If you do not have the text message, go to the auction's webpage, log in, and begin bidding!

Via Text Messages: Text the item number and amount you would like to bid. No dollar signs ($) needed. Example: "102 300" then press send. You placed a $300 bid on item number 102. 

Will you need my credit card information?
Yes, a credit card number will be required to bid. 

I'm not very tech-savvy, will I have a hard time participating?
We don't think so! The bidding platform is very user-friendly and will walk you through the entire process. If you need help, though, please contact Erin Abel at [email protected]

If I win, how will I get my items?
If you win an item in the auction, we will contact you to determine how you will receive your item(s). Some items will qualify to be emailed or mailed to your home, others will require you to schedule a pick up time. Please be patient as pick-up arrangements are dependent upon local COVID-19 restrictions. Thank you for your understanding. If you have a question, please contact Erin Abel at [email protected]

How does Checkout work?
If you are the lucky winner of an auction item, you can securely checkout after 9pm on March 27. Click the PAY tab to pay your balance at any time.

A text with the link to pay will also be sent to all users with a balance on file at the end of the auction.

Any unpaid balances will be charged to the card on file beginning Monday, March 29 at 10am . 

What if I can't use my item because of COVID-19?
Funds raised through this event are critical for our continued operation, so consideration of a fully tax-deductible donation in lieu of an auction item purchase would be gratefully received. When possible, we will work to extend redemption deadlines or provide replacement items or tickets. Otherwise, if your item is impacted by COVID-19 in a way that makes it unusable, you will be refunded the full amount of your purchase.

Another Question? 
If your question was not answered above, please reach out to our event coordinator, Erin Abel at 616-402-2000 (text or call) or [email protected]