CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Local and regional non-profit organizations have great opportunities to raise money for their causes by working food service and concessions positions at Fighting Illini football games this season. Non-profits can earn anywhere from $10,000 to $45,000 in an athletic season.
Illinois' official concessions vendor, Oak View Group, offers community groups the ability to make anywhere from $120-$175 per game/per worker plus tips earned at the designated stand. It is recommended that groups have 6-10 workers per stand. There are additional opportunities for revenue for those who get Basset certified to work beer portables. Certification must be completed online for everyone (~approximately $14 per certification).
"This is a great opportunity available in our community," said Tyler Hopple, General Manager of Illinois Athletic Food & Beverage. "Working as a non-profit group at athletic events offers a unique way to raise funds while building teamwork and community pride. The program is mutually beneficial for both Illinois Athletics and the non-profit organizations, whether it's youth sports groups, school programs, or other local charities. It's more than just fundraising; it's a chance to engage with thousands of fans, develop valuable skills, and represent your mission in a high-energy environment. For the organizations, we've seen many groups clear well over $10,000 a football season and members who work all sports can clear more than $50,000 during the 2025-26 year."
TESTIMONIAL FROM JEANNINE REESE, ST. JUDE'S CHILDRENS HOSPITAL RUN GROUP:
"As St. Jude runners, we commit to raising money when we register to participate in the yearly event which has 35 teams from across the state running to the Midwest affiliate in Peoria. Without this opportunity, we would not have been able to do what we do for St. Jude.
"We started volunteering at food and beer stands in 2019 and between the first football game of 2024 and the last baseball game on May 11 this spring, our overall crew of 15 volunteers worked 60 UI events for a grand total of $61,686.31. That amount includes all tips kindly given to us."
For more information or to sign up your non-profit, contact Tyler Hopple at tyler.hopple@oakviewgroup.com.
