In a world of high-ticket galas, two local creative powerhouses are offering an alternative and a chance to leave the tuxedo at home while still ensuring community impact.
Five years ago, Big Jerk Soda and Lensea Film launched “Chump Change,” a grassroots fundraising initiative designed to democratize the act of giving. This year, the team is bringing a nostalgic school carnival to Odd Colony Brewing to support a vital local cause: the media program at Oakcrest Elementary.
Here’s a video that shows a little more about Oakcrest and what we are raising money for. https://vimeo.com/1169380690
The philosophy behind Chump Change is simple: everyone deserves the dignity of giving back. While traditional fundraisers often focus on high-net-worth donors, Chump Change prioritizes participation, transparency, and minimizes barriers to entry.
“We’ve participated in many worthwhile fundraisers, but at times we’ve felt somewhat removed from the impact because there wasn’t always clear visibility into how the funds were being used.” says Destyn of Lensea Film. “Our goal is to connect small businesses directly to the source, removing administrative fees and grey areas. We want our community to see exactly where their money is going.”
The 2026 Mission: Access for Oakcrest Elementary
This year’s funds are earmarked for Oakcrest Elementary’s Media Specialist, Cassie Hull.
Oakcrest is a vibrant, diverse community, the largest ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) center in the county, where students are eager to learn but often lack the resources of more affluent schools.
“There’s a misconception that our students are not capable because they come from poverty,” an Oakcrest educator shared. “They discount what our students can do. All of our kids are smart; they just need access.” – Dawn Turley, Principal of Oakcrest Elementary
The goal of this year’s “Chump Change” is to provide that access by outfitting the school’s media program with professional-grade equipment, empowering students to produce their own “Eagle News” morning show.
The “Chump Change” carnival transforms the brewery into a playground of local flavor and philanthropy. Attendees can expect:
The Signature Soda Launch: A custom-crafted flavor by Big Jerk Soda.
The Premiere: A high-energy commercial launch video produced by Lensea Film.
The Carnival: A mini-school carnival featuring local favorites.
This year’s partner roster includes an eclectic mix of community staples: Idle Reader Book Store, End of the Line Cafe, Itsa Cookie, Lousi, National Flight Academy, Whim Cotton Candy, and Graffiti Pizza.
As the students of the Oakcrest morning show say at the end of every broadcast: “Be a dreamer. Be fair. Be brilliant… you are so worth loving.” This year, Chump Change is making sure they have the tools to share that brilliance with the world.
Event Details
What: Chump Change: A School Carnival Fundraiser
Where: Odd Colony Brewing
When: March 7th 5p-7p
Why: To benefit the Oakcrest Elementary Media Program.
About Chump Change: Founded by Big Jerk Soda and Lensea Film, Chump Change is an annual fundraising event dedicated to the arts and education. By removing barriers to entry and fostering direct connections between small businesses and local causes, Chump Change aims to cultivate a sustainable, inclusive culture of giving.
