In 2003 and 2004, a national organization conducted treasure hunts in Austin and 29 other cities across the United States . When Austin was not included in their list of cities for 2005, the Travis Heights neighborhood looked to fill the void. With Top 10 finishes in the 2003 and 2004 races and as organizers of local treasure hunts, this neighborhood had the experience necessary to create a new tradition. Austin Found Inc. was born — a city-wide treasure hunt designed to bring Austin communities together.

The annual Austin Found Treasure Hunt will build social capital through a fun, creative team-oriented event, helping to:

• Initiate camaraderie among our citizens
• Encourage a healthy, active lifestyle
• Strengthen problem solving and communication skills
• Educate citizens about the history and culture of our great city
• Build lasting intergenerational and social connections
• "Define" Austin as a great place to live

In addition to communities working together and having fun, the money collected will go toward great causes. The Austin Community Foundation will be the primary beneficiary of this event every year (70% of net proceeds), and the money donated will be allocated to education projects. The community organizing the treasure hunt will receive 20% of the net proceeds for the charity/cause of their choice. In 2005, the Travis Heights neighborhood has chosen the Travis Heights Elementary School as the beneficiary.

Every year, the Board of Austin Found, Inc. will select one organization to coordinate the race. Any organization (church, high-school, neighborhood, etc.) can volunteer. The organizing community will be responsible for fund-raising, setting the clues and providing moderators and checkpoint personnel on race day. For more information about this fun community event, please visit the FAQ section.

Download a copy of the Austin Found flyer to help us get the word out!
To download right click this link and save the pdf file to your computer!