Carson-Newman University Hunger Games adds pop culture twist to fundraising

^{Carson-Newman student Mackenzie Olson of Knoxville, Tennessee, (foreground) stands with other participants as they await the start of Carson-Newman’s Hunger Games.}

Click to view NBC-affiliate WBIR channel 10’s coverage of the event.

(Nov. 18, 2014) – Carson-Newman University held its fourth installment of its Hunger Games over the weekend. Held November 14-16, the weekend-long event raised $12,700 for 10 East Tennessee charities.

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.

In 2013 the University event 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.

The games generated a worldwide online audience, which followed the event through live streaming videos and Facebook updates. Visitors followed the games from as far away as the United Kingdom, Japan, Thailand and Australia, and were able to donate to the various charities via the games’ participant representing their specific cause.

School officials are already planning for next year’s Hunger Games fundraiser.