Be the first To jump!
The “Be the First” Auction is your chance to become the very first ceremonial jumper at The Great Bungee Company. Place your bid for the opportunity to take the very first leap and claim your place in our history. 100% of proceeds go to charity.
How it Works
Participation is simple…
1. Visit the Auction Page
Click the link below to view the auction on BetterWorld.
2. Place Your Bid
Submit your bid for the opportunity to become the first person to jump at Great Bungee Company.
3. Follow the Bidding
If another participant places a higher bid, you will have the option to increase your bid while the auction remains open.
4. Auction Close
When the auction ends, the highest eligible bidder will win the opportunity to take the first jump.
The winning bidder receives
The winning bidder will earn the opportunity to become the first ceremonial jumper at The Great Bungee Company during our Grand Opening Ceremonies on May 15th, 2026.
This experience includes…
VIP ceremonial jump experience
VIP second jumper guest of your choice
Professional video and photos of the experience
Mention as auction winner in a national press release
Mention at press conference and on social media
Taxable contribution to local charities
After the auction closes, the winning bidder will be contacted with next steps for completing payment, signing the required waivers, and preparing for the jump.
Where the funds go
The “Be the First” Auction is about more than just the jump. It’s also an opportunity to support the important causes around us.
Funds raised through this auction will be donated to seven charitable organizations doing important work in our community. Every bid helps support causes that make a real difference while giving participants the chance to claim a place in Great Bungee Company history.
Community Markets Inc.
Supports food security by improving access to affordable, locally grown food for low-income families across West Virginia.
Harpers Ferry Park AssociatioN
Enhances the visitor experience at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park through education, programs, and park support.
The AMERICAN HUMANE SOCIETY
Rescues, cares for and protects animals in need across America.
EXPERIENCE LEARNING
Engages people in experiential, outdoor, and community-based learning to build skills, confidence, and meaningful connections.
Friends of the Shenandoah River
Dedicated to protecting and preserving the Shenandoah River through conservation, education, and community engagement.
Habitat for Humanity of the Eastern Panhandle
Supports initiatives at the local middle school.
Harpers Ferry Alumni Association
Helps families build and access safe, affordable housing in the Eastern Panhandle region.
Before you bid
Here are a few important details to review before placing your bid.
Does this mean I am the first test jumper? . . .
No, there will be testing and commissioning of the structure done in conjunction with state licensing and permitting before the first ceremonial jump.
How does bidding work? . . .
Bidding takes place through BetterWorld. Participants can place bids, tack the current highest bid, and increase their bids throughout the auction period. The highest eligible bid at the time the auction closes will win.
Do I need an account to bid? . . .
Yes. To participate, you will be prompted to create a quick account on BetterWorld. This allows you to place bids, receive updates, and be notified if you are outbid.
Will I be notified if I get outbid? . . .
Yes. BetterWorld will notify you if somone places a higher bid, giving you the opportunity to return and increase your bid before the auction closes.
How do you keep the auction fair? . . .
To keep the auction fair, we using "popcorn bidding." Which means if a bid is placed in the final 2 minutes, the countdown timer will reset back to 2 minutes. This continues until no new bids are placed, giving everyone a fair chance to respond.
Are bids refundable? . . .
No. All bids are final. By placing a bid, you are entering into a legally binding agreement and there are no refunds, returns, or cancellations once the auction has ended.
How is payment handled? . . .
BetterWorld will automatically charge the winning bidder’s credit card on file as soon as the auction closes.
Who is eligible to participate in the jump? . . .
The winning bidder must meet all standard safety requirements, including:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must weigh between 80 lbs and 300 lbs
- Must be in good physical health and able to safely participate
All participants are subject to final approval based on safety guidelines.
Do I need to sign a waiver? . . .
Yes. The winning bidder must complete and sign a standard liability waiver before participating. All standard safety procedures still apply.
Can the prize be transferred to someone else? . . .
Yes. If the winning bidder chooses not to jump or does not meet the safety requirements, the experience can be transferred to someone else who meets all eligibility criteria.
What happens if the weather is bad? . . .
We jump rain or shine. However, in the case of severe weather, we may choose to delay or reschedule. All decisions regarding weather and timing are at the discretion of The Great Bungee Company management.
When is the first jump scheduled? . . .
The first jump is scheduled for May 1st, 2026. The winner must arrive at least 2 hours early for training and orientation.
What happens if I can't attend? . . .
If the winner is unable to attend, they must provide at least 48 hours notice. If no notice is given and the winner does not show up, the "First Jump" states will be forfeited. Funds will still be donated as planned.
What do the funds go? . . .
100% of the proceeds, minus standard credit card processing fees, will be donated to the selected charitable organizations.
Is my bid tax deductible? . . .
The fair market value of a standard jump is $150. Only the portion of your winning bid above this amount may be considered a charitable donation. A receipt will be issued, but we recommend consulting a tax professional for specific advice.
Only one person can go first.
And It’s yours to win.
Head to the auction page to see the current bids and make your move.