48 Hours to Raise $50K: Columbia Ability Alliance Launches Second Giving Blitz

A Call to Action: Join the 2025 Giving Blitz

Columbia Ability Alliance is rallying the Tri-Cities community for its second annual Giving Blitz, a 48-hour virtual fundraising event set to take place from August 6 to 7. The initiative aims to unlock $50,000 in community support, building on the success of the inaugural event in 2024, which raised $42,000 and generated over 25,000 social media impressions.

The nonprofit organization, dedicated to providing services and programs for people with disabilities, emphasizes that the Giving Blitz is more than just a fundraising campaign—it’s a movement. “When people participate in the Blitz, they’re helping change lives and opening doors to employment, independence, and inclusion,” said Michael Novakovich, president and CEO of Columbia Ability Alliance (CAA).

Programs That Make a Difference

Funds raised during the Giving Blitz will directly support three core programs:

• Opportunity Kitchen: A vocational training program that teaches life and hospitality skills.
• Employment Services: Assistance for clients to overcome barriers and find meaningful work.
• The Community Center: A hub for social inclusion and recreation.

These programs have seen increasing demand. The community center reported a 48% rise in attendance this year compared to last, while employment services continue to expand as more individuals seek career support.

One client's story highlights the impact of these programs. Taylee Forsythe, a graduate of Opportunity Kitchen, was once at risk of homelessness. After completing the program, she secured a job on CAA's janitorial team, purchased a car, and now lives independently. “These are the life-changing moments the community makes possible,” Novakovich said. “When you donate to the Blitz, you're helping someone like Taylee build a future.”

How the Giving Blitz Works

The Giving Blitz employs a unique approach by using sponsor challenges to multiply community impact. Corporate sponsors pledge donations that are only unlocked when the community meets specific goals, creating a high-energy, gamified campaign.

Several sponsors are involved in this year’s event:

• H2C, the presenting sponsor, will contribute $7,500 once community donations reach the same amount.
• Cornerstone Wealth Strategies will unlock gifts when each of CAA’s three mission programs—Opportunity Kitchen, Employment Services, and the Community Center—receives 20 individual donations.
• ICCU is adding a geographic challenge, rewarding donations from residents in Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick.
• High Street is sponsoring a social media challenge to encourage sharing and online engagement.

“Even a small $25 gift can unlock thousands in sponsor donations,” said Libby Blashill, director of advancement at CAA. “The whole event is designed to make every contribution feel bigger because the community is working together.”

Ways to Participate

Supporters can contribute through various channels:

• Online at columbiaabilityalliance.com/giving-blitz/
• By texting BLITZ to 833-550-4060
• By calling the CAA office at (509) 873-3034
• By dropping off cash or checks at the administrative offices between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., located at 900 S Dayton St. in Kennewick

Live updates, leaderboards, and challenge progress will be shared on social media throughout the 48-hour event.

Join the Movement

The 2025 Giving Blitz begins on Wednesday, August 6, and runs through Thursday, August 7. The event will conclude with a community celebration at Live at Five Richland, held at John Dam Plaza. Attendees can stop by the CAA booth, meet staff, and pick up limited-edition Blitz fanny packs.

CAA will share results online and via email on Friday, August 8, along with an event impact report for sponsors. “We hope everyone in the Tri-Cities takes a moment to get involved,” Blashill said. “Every gift, every share, every challenge unlocked brings us closer to an inclusive community where everyone has the chance to thrive.”

For more information, visit columbiaabilityalliance.com/blitz or follow @ColumbiaAbilityAlliance on social media.