New York – The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and eBay have announced an online industrywide charity auction that will go live during the 2002 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January. The charity auction is intended to make the latest in consumer technology displayed at CES available to a global consumer audience.
One hundred percent of the proceeds from the auction will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the nation’s largest youth mentoring organization.
CEA and eBay developed the charity auction event as another way for CES exhibitors to showcase their newest products while also raising money for charity. CES exhibitors are invited to donate products – those both recently introduced and slated for introduction at CES 2002.
The products will be offered on eBay during the show, which runs Jan. 8-11, 2002, through a dedicated CES charity section on eBay. Palm, for one, has agreed to offer five units each of its m505, m500, m125 and m100 handhelds for the auction. Hewlett-Packard has also committed products including the new HP Digital Entertainment Center, HP DVD-Writer dvd100i, HP Jornada 565 PDAs, and the HP Photosmart 612 digital camera and the HP Photosmart 100 photo printer.
“This is a great opportunity for CES exhibitors to come together and once again exemplify the philanthropic spirit of our industry while generating excitement about the latest in consumer technology. A little commitment from everyone will together create a big impact,” said Gary Shapiro, CEA president and CEO. “Consumers are hungry for the latest consumer electronics products, so this is a win for everyone.”
“eBay is thrilled to work with the members of the Consumer Electronics Association for this important charity event,” said Jordan Glazier, general manager of eBay’s consumer electronics business. “Every year, consumers eagerly anticipate the unveiling of new products at CES. This event will offer them the ability to share in the excitement.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the largest youth mentoring organization in the country, currently serving 200,000 children nationwide through 508 affiliates. Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children support, guidance and friendship by matching caring adult volunteers with youth. The mission is to help young people achieve their highest potential as they grow to become confident, competent and caring individuals.
Another recently launched eBay charity effort is `Auction For America,’ which is aiming to raise $100 million in 100 days to support of the victims, their families and those communities affected by the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Consumer electronics manufacturers wishing to participate should contact Ellen Gott at eBay, 408-558-3554 or via email at [email protected].
