December 8, 2022
By Rachel Scofield
The kids and I love a good scavenger hunt – creative challenges, engaging puzzles, new experiences. The recent announcement that the Greatest International Scavenger Hunt (GISH) was ending hit us kind of hard. So, when Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fairfield County (BBBS) announced its new Holiday Scavenger Hunt, we wanted to give it a try.
“We love fun and new adventures here and we wanted to share our adventures with the community,” said Jolyn Pugh, Executive Director of BBBS of Fairfield County. “What better time to have a two-county scavenger hunt than the holidays? The public is highly encouraged to participate and experience all the free activities in our communities during the holiday season.”
The Hunt
For those unfamiliar with scavenger hunts, participants are provided a list of challenges worth varying point values. The individual or team who earns the most points wins.
“This event is for the whole family but would be a great girls’ night out, date night, or team-building experience,” Pugh said. “The missions can be done in one day for the most part or you can do a little each day during the event. As participants complete their missions, they will earn points. The points will be used to earn prizes. We have shopping sprees, family baskets, and adult-only prizes to win. Prizes will be drawn on December 13th and announced live on Facebook. Our Holiday Hunt can be your new holiday tradition!”
The grand prize winner will receive a weekend getaway to the Hocking Hills.
Challenges range in value from five to 400 points. The five-pointers are pretty easy and can mostly be done at home. There are currently more than 100 challenges on the hunt list with additional tasks appearing daily.
If you are looking to win, you’ll need to complete as many high-value challenges as possible. For those who enter just for fun, there is no pressure. If you never complete a single task, you have still donated to an incredibly worthy cause.
How to Enter
To join the hunt, download the Goosechase app onto your mobile device and search for “Big Brothers Big Sisters Holiday Hunt”. Purchase a ticket for $10.00, then Goosechase will send you a code to access the challenges.
“Everything we do is for the kids here at Big Brothers Big Sisters,” Pugh said. “Our mentoring programs are free to all who participate. We must raise funds to provide mentors for youth. We have four major fundraisers a year and this is our most recent event.”
The Challenges
“It will be holiday themed missions,” Pugh said. “You may need to find your favorite Christmas movie, DIY craft, spread holiday cheer or wear something ugly. We don’t want to give too much away but it will be fun. There will be family-friendly and a few adult-only missions. Some missions will be completely free, and others may require you to purchase a meal or treat.”
The lower point items are perfect for both children and the young-at-heart. Some challenges may already be part of your holiday traditions, like making cookies or decorating a Christmas tree.
Play from Anywhere
“Anyone in the world can participate,” Pugh said.
The list includes many challenges around southeast Ohio, primarily Fairfield and Hocking counties. For locals, this means favorite places like Ash Cave and Outerbelt Brewing as well as new destinations like Lancaster’s Advent Walk or Habitat for Humanity’s Home Alone obstacle course.
For challenges that cannot be completed remotely, BBBS will accept substitutions. For instance, if you can’t donate to the mitten tree at Pickerington City Hall, donate to a nonprofit in your own community.
Shout Out to Sponsors
A few challenges involve visiting businesses that sponsor BBBS.
Currently there are just shy of 500 children who depend on BBBS of Fairfield County for help battling social and emotional health issues. Contributions from these businesses enable BBBS to fund adventures like riding the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway‘s Santa train and Kings Island‘s Banshee.
“We tried to thank those who help us throughout the year and to spread love while we are out and about,” Pugh said.
If you are unable to visit the sponsors in person, you can thank them on social media. Tag both the company and BBBS of Fairfield County then upload a screenshot of your post to complete the challenge.
Become a Big Brother or Big Sister
Per BBBS’s website, “Being a Big Brother or a Big Sister is one of the most fun and rewarding things you will ever do. As a Big Brother or a Big Sister you get to be a kid again for a few hours each month while you give a child the invaluable gift of your friendship. Do you like to shoot hoops, bake cookies, play video games, go to the beach, or just hang out? We know a kid who would love to join you.”
Mentors spend four hours per month with their Little Brother or Sister. The pair may choose to schedule their own activities or join events offered by BBBS. Mentors may also opt to volunteer an hour a week at a neighborhood school.
“You get to play games, read books, use the computer, go to the library, and just talk. We have several programs running in a number of schools at various times, so we can find a program to fit your schedule.”
Enroll a Child
BBBS serves children between the ages of six and 18 who need friendship, guidance and support. To determine if a child you know is eligible, please fill out the on-line form or contact the agency at (740) 687-9477. All information you provide will be kept confidential. Once your request is received, a member of the staff will call you and help you find out if this is the right program for your child.
The agency receives most of its referrals from parents and school counselors who have identified children who are struggling. BBBS makes every effort to provide service to all who request it.
Upcoming Big Brothers Big Sisters Fundraisers
December 13, 20 & 27 (4:00 – 10:00 pm) – BBBS Pints for Potential at Double Edge Brewing Co., 158 West Chestnut Street, Lancaster. $1.00 of every pint sold will go to BBBS. You can meet BBBS staff and learn about becoming a Big.
February 25 (6:00 – 10:30 pm) – 14th Annual Laugh for Kids’ Sake Comedy Night 1803 Granville Pike, “We have laughs, drinks, and a great time supporting a great cause. Only 400 tickets will be sold. We have sold out for several years so get your tickets early.”
Tickets cost $30.00 each and may be purchased on the BBBS website. This year’s performers are Mark Chalifoux and Pat Godwin. You can reserve a table by contacting Morgan at (740) 687-9477. Tables are available for 2, 4, 6, 8 people. Must be 21 to attend. Doors open at 6 pm and the show starts at 7:30 pm. Food trucks and cash bar open at 6 pm. 100% of the money raised supports youth in Fairfield and Hocking Counties
