Photo courtesy of Abercrombie & Fitch
Don’t be deceived by the nationally renowned bands, open bar or free food: This is actually a charity event.
The A&F Challenge, hosted by Abercrombie & Fitch, will attract roughly 3,000 people to the company’s New Albany headquarters for a 5K run/walk and 20-mile bike ride. After the races, the party begins. Specialty food tents, an open bar and a kids zone will accompany performances by American Authors and Smallpools.
“It is a fundraiser, so we expect people to contribute, but they get a lot for their money,” says senior Vice President and Treasurer Everett Gallagher.
The Challenge may look like a party, but since its start in 2001, the event has raised more
Photo courtesy of Abercrombie & Fitch
The Mowgli’s perform at the 2014 A&F Challenge.
than $10 million. A&F underwrites all costs of the event, allowing for 100 percent of the money raised to go directly to charity.
“It’s a huge part of our culture to give back in whatever way we can,” says Director of Human Resources Josh Seacrest.
A&F’s philanthropic mission focuses on health and wellness of youth, and the Challenge reflects that. The Challenge focuses on charities related to young adults and children as well as the community.
In 2007, A&F committed to raising $10 million for The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Targeting $1 million a year, the Challenge has already raised more than $8.5 million toward that goal, despite taking a year off in 2009.
“We’re hoping to meet our goal early,” says Seacrest.
For A&F, the Challenge serves as a way to benefit causes important to the company while also connecting with the community.
“It’s a great way to have fun and support really important causes in the community,” says Gallagher.
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Cameron Carr is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at ssole@cityscenemediagroup.com.
