Q: How will mobile bidding be used at this year’s event?

A:  We will be using mobile bidding for our Silent Auction and our Special Appeal. 

Q: How do I sign up for mobile bidding? 
A:  When you make your reservation, be sure to list the cell phone that you will be using at the event so that you can enjoy Express Check-In. If you are bringing a device (iPad or electronic tablet) that is NOT synced up to your cell phone, give us an email address. Please feel free to call us with any questions before the event!

Q: How do my guests sign up for mobile bidding? 
A:  If you are sponsoring a table or registering as a group, let us know in advance and we will send you tickets to distribute to all members of your group. They can bring their ticket to the event and we will register their cell phone OR they can call the Foundation office by March 1, and we will get their information via phone so that they can enjoy Express Check-in.

Q: Can I still bid on Silent Auction items with paper bid sheets? 
A: Mobile bidding allows us to eliminate all the time it takes to enter data into computers and print out receipts. We will not be using paper bid sheets. However, like our paper bid sheets, each package will have an opening bid amount and set increments for subsequent bids.

Q: What if I don't have a smartphone or have never done this kind of thing before? 
A: Not to worry, there will be volunteers available with devices to help you bid. You can also use a friend's device by simply logging on using your own personal bidding number, then logging out so they can log back on with their own bid number. 

Q: When can I start to bid? 
A: Sponsors and their guests who have pre-registered a cell phone or device email address will receive a text notification for “early bidding” on event day. Click on the link, confirm your name, and you can start to bid within 60 seconds.

Q: Can I wait until I arrive at the event to register? 
A: Absolutely!

Q: What if I register with one credit card, but plan to bring another one to the event?
A: Not a problem. Just stop by the registration table when you arrive or contact the Foundation Office at 724-843-0365.

Q: Why use mobile bidding?
A: This has become a fun and wildly successful trend at fundraising events for several reasons:

• Guests enjoy browsing on the mobile bidding site and "window shopping" of items even before arriving at the event.
• Mobile bidding offers freedom and efficiency. You can bid from your table, the bar, or while chatting with friends at the event.
• Interested in an item, but not sure if you want to bid? Rather than pass the item by and forget where it was, you can keep an eye on it by pressing “Watch”.
• Find an item you want? You can see the current bid, the closing time, a photo and details about the item on your mobile device. All bid increments are pre-set, so just hit the “quick bid” button to make the next bid.
• You will receive "outbid texts" so that you know when someone has trumped your bid. You can bid again with just a click to make sure you get that package!
• If there's an item you really love, you can offer a "max bid" – the most you want to pay for that particular package. The system will make bids on your behalf until your max bid is reached - no need to goal tend packages.When a “max bid” has been made, lower bids will not be accepted from other guests.
• Every package also has a “guaranteed purchase” price. Many of our items are so unique or one-of-a-kind that you just want to pay the purchase price and not risk losing it. These guaranteed purchase prices are listed in our online catalog.
• All bidding will be tracked, displayed and announced in real time throughout the evening.
• When the Silent Auction closes, check to see if you won anything under "My Bids".You will also be sent a receipt to your email address. If you bring your own mobile device, pull up the receipt on your screen and show it one of our table attendants and claim your prize at the end of the evening.
• Auction guests who have used mobile bidding at other events have said that it actually gave them a chance to meet and talk with new people as they share tips or “bidding war” stories. Guests also enjoy seeing how each bid helps bring the charity closer to its goals.

Best of all, you can simply use your bidder number to make other purchases during the night. 

This QUICK VIDEO demonstrates mobile bidding features.

Mobile bidding is made possible thanks to this year's Technology Sponsors:
Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania and Maryland
and Reno Bros