By Paige Gurgainers

The Minden St. Jude Auction committee has revealed its theme for the 2026 fundraising event: The Torch Is Lit – Champions for a Cure. The powerful new slogan reflects both the spirit of Olympic competition and the community’s ongoing dedication to supporting pediatric cancer research and care.

In announcing the 2026 theme, organizers emphasized strength, courage and perseverance, drawing a parallel between athletes going for gold and the Minden community rallying around a single mission year after year – saving children’s lives.

The 2025 auction marked a major milestone with the 50th anniversary of Minden’s long-running St. Jude fundraising tradition. Over the years, the event has become a signature part of the community, held over four days during Super Bowl weekend and broadcast on radio and cable. In 2025 alone, the community raised $2,320,036, continuing its legacy of generosity.

With “Champions for a Cure” as its guiding theme, the 2026 event is shaping up to be one of the most inspiring in auction history. Organizers are calling on everyone – longtime supporters and new participants alike – to carry the torch forward. They say the goal isn’t just to raise money, but to coach every child into a future where cancer no longer wins.

Whether you’ve donated for years or are just hearing about the auction now, you can make a difference. Join in by giving, volunteering or simply spreading the word. Because in Minden? Every single person is a champion.