Carson-Newman Hunger Games to benefit 10 East Tennessee charities

^{Participants competing in last year’s Carson-Newman Hunger Games, pause briefly during a weekend of exciting fundraising. Pictured, left to right, are Cameron Bledsoe, Sarah Hill, David McNeely, Kendra Ivins, Caleb Wise, Kathryn Spisso, Luke Creppel, and Cameron Harrell. The weekend-long event was followed by people all over the world, including those from Australia, the Netherlands, the UK, and Germany.}

(Nov. 10, 2014) – As movie-goers eagerly await the next Hunger Games offering, Mockingjay- Part 1, Carson-Newman University will hold its fourth installment of its own Hunger Games this weekend. Like previous years of benefiting charities, this year’s games will support 10 East Tennessee causes.

“We like to challenge our students to think outside the box when doing service,” said Tommy Clapp, Carson-Newman director of First Year and Conference Services, who oversees the event. “The C-N Hunger Games is a great example for that. We are excited to offer new twists this year to keep the students and viewers engaged and excited.”

As with the previous events, the University’s games will benefit area charities while benefiting 10 charities in East Tennessee. The event begins Friday, Nov. 14 and concludes on Sunday, Nov. 16.

Inspired by the best-selling book trilogy by Suzanne Collins and the movie series, the Carson-Newman Hunger Games incorporates elements of the franchise, TV’s Survivor, Nerf battles and paintball to create a one-of-a-kind fundraiser. The event has grown increasingly popular among students, while helping support causes that are making a difference.

During its last games, the University raised over $12,000 for area charities. This year area causes include BOOST after school tutoring, Hope Unlimited, The Journey Program, Appalachian Outreach, Habitat for Humanity, SEEED of Knoxville, C-N SPOTS mission trips, The Rescue Ministries, the Boys and Girls Club, and Compassion Coalition.

Carson-Newman invites the community to join the fun. Portions of the games will be viewable on live-stream, and the community is invited to donate online. Follow the games on Facebook and Twitter. For more information and to donate, visit cn.edu/hungergames.