American Resort Development Association

"cMarket was instrumental in helping me through the development of our auction. From the training and resource center to cMarket Place, we got everything we needed to make the event a great success." - Chantal Rotondo

Situation: Based on the success of the ARDA convention online auction, the foundation wanted to host a holiday event where companies could donate lodging, home goods, electronics, cruises, jewelry and other items to support one of the organizations most important charities, the Christel House.

Approach: ARDA took advantage of the online auction to engage 4,000 industry professionals in order to support the foundation, with 10% of the auction proceeds going to support the Christel House in its mission to help children around the world break the cycle of poverty and become self-sufficient, contributing members of society.

Results: The previous ARDA Convention auction raised over $25,000 with 82 bidders making over 360 bids on a total of 105 items sold. In this latest holiday auction, bidding focused on exotic vacation excursions such as a 4-day stay at one of Marriott Vacation Club International's villa resorts, either in the U.S. or in Thailand and Spain, and a week-long Hawaii getaway. Cruises to Cabo San Lucas and Blue Man Group tickets to shows at the Venetian during the ARDA Convention followed closely.