You’ve signed up your organization.

You’ve rallied your co-workers and formed an all-star team for event day.

You’ve planned your rosters for each of the 13 events.

Your team is in the zone.

But there’s still a crucial part of The Community Cup, presented by The Columbus Foundation, that will set your organization apart from the rest: The Charity Challenge. With just one month left to give, grabbing extra points from the Charity Challenge could be the difference between first and second place!

If you’re unsure about the logistics of the charity component or you’re yet to register your team (Yes, there’s still time to join!), fear not. There are three different ways to give back and the rules are easy.

From now until Tuesday, Sept. 3, each Community Cup team can earn up to a maximum of 100 points through donations to the Mid-Ohio Foodbank, YMCA of Central Ohio or The Columbus Foundation. Here’s the breakdown on how and where to donate and put your team in the lead come event day:

Donate Dollars to The Columbus Foundation

The Community Cup would not be possible without the help of our presenting sponsor, The Columbus Foundation! The Foundation is accepting contributions to its Gifts of Kindness Fund, a community-focused fund helping Central Ohio individuals and families with emergency needs, as part of the Charity Challenge. Simply donate, provide proof of your donation to the Sports Commission team and receive one point for every dollar contributed.

Gift Groceries for Mid-Ohio Foodbank

Since 1980, the Mid-Ohio Foodbank has strived to end hunger one nourishing meal at a time. To help those in need, the Mid-Ohio Foodbank has selected a few specialty items – like canned vegetables, peanut butter, toothpaste and shampoo – that will earn your team points when donated for the Charity Challenge. Registered teams will find a Community Cup collection box in their office in which they can place all donation items. For each item donated, one point will be awarded to your team. Find a complete list of donatable items here.

Give Gear to the YMCA of Central Ohio

We all know the importance of healthy living and benefits of sports participation, so give back with gear! The YMCA of Central Ohio is accepting specialty sports equipment such as basketballs, tennis balls and frisbees as part of the Charity Challenge. Place your items in your office’s Community Cup collection box and receive one point for each item donated. For a complete list of needed sports items, click here.

The Community Cup is all about healthy competition, but the opportunity to come together and give back to the Columbus community is what makes this event so special! You can find more information on the Charity Challenge on the Community Cup website. So, start practicing and keep collecting, teams! We’ll see you on Sept. 28 for the main event!