SAN ANTONIO – Nonprofit organizations are gearing up for the second annual "The Big Give S.A."
The kickoff for the May 5 event took place Wednesday at the Whitley Theological Center.
With millions of donation dollars at stake, hundreds of nonprofit leaders attended to start planning how to get their share.
"We're very excited about it and as part of Goodwill, we really are thankful for the opportunity to be part of this," said Gail Ribalta, Goodwill senior vice president of marketing.
The Big Give S.A. is part of the Give Local America crowd-funding event. Similar events will take place in dozens of cities at the same time.
Large and small nonprofit organizations will take part in the 24-hour online fundraising blitz.
Along with the opportunity to raise funds, they will have chances to win prize money for most donors and amounts raised.
Locally, more than $100,000 has been pledged for prizes and incentives.
"It makes it a fun competition. You know nonprofits compete for money all the time, (and) this is a great way for them to have a friendly competition among themselves," said Scott McAninch, San Antonio Nonprofit Council, executive director.
The Big Give S.A offers free workshops to help nonprofit leaders learn how to encourage donations.
Last year, the organization Daisy Care raised thousands to help the needy provide medical care for their pets.
"It was a really good opportunity, especially for small nonprofits to gain more awareness and obtain more donors. It's just a really good opportunity," Dayna Robokowski, of Daisy Care said.
Up to 700 nonprofits are expected to take part in The Big Give.
The event is also being expanded to include New Braunfels, Kerrville, Boerne, Seguin and Fredericksburg, all in a 12-county area.
Last year, $2 million was raised. This year the goal is $3 million.
More information about the event please visit their website.