Amplify Austin returns for the fourth year to raise funds for local nonprofits that work every day with limited resources to impact the lives of Central Texans in need. Last year, Amplify Austin collected $7.7 million in online donations across eight categories, including basic needs, arts and culture, and animal care. This year they’re hoping to reach $9 million.
I Live Here, I Give Here, the nonprofit behind Amplify Austin, hopes to expand their reach to more than 600 organizations this year across seven counties. Each organization has its own page where you can learn more about its services and needs, and read testimonials from community members who have benefited. In addition to matching donations, local businesses like Whole Foods have offered cash bonuses to nonprofits that raise the most money or appeal to the most donors. Anyone who would like to sponsor one of those prizes can email celeste@ilivehereigivehere.org.
In addition to the daylong donation spree, participating nonprofits are hosting individual fundraisers all over town. Kickoff parties on Tuesday, March 8, will benefit various organizations, including: the Austin Humane Society (Dogwood Rock Rose, 11420 Rock Rose #130, 5-8pm); the Boys & Girls Club of the Austin Area (ABGB, 1305 W. Oltorf, 6-9pm); and the Austin Children’s Choir (Central Market North, 4001 N. Lamar, 5-8pm). Circus of Hope, a nonprofit that reaches at-risk and special needs kids through circus arts, will host two trapeze class fundraisers (Stunt Ranch, 13317 Fitzhugh; Tue., March 8, 6-9pm; Wed., March 9, 3-6pm). All they ask is a donation upon entry and $10 for a swing.
Make donations for 24 hours starting at 6pm, March 8, or schedule a payment ahead of time. See the full schedule of events at www.amplifyatx.org.
This story has been amended since publication to accurately report on the number of nonprofits and counties participating in Amplify Austin.
This article appears in March 4 • 2016.