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IDAHO FALLS, Idaho – Anderson Hicks Group in Idaho Falls is launching its fifth treasure hunt just in time for Christmas.
The real estate company partnered with 10 other sponsors to provide $5,000 and other prizes. It's inside a treasure chest hidden somewhere between Shelley and Rigby. It's up for grabs to whoever finds it.
The treasure hunt kicks off on Dec. 1. Clues will be provided every Monday, Wednesday and Friday until it's found. Those wanting to participate need to sign up here and follow Anderson Hicks Group on Instagram and Facebook.
Marketing manager Anike Wilder hopes the treasure hunt "instills a lot of hope in the community," especially for those who are struggling.
"They might be able to have a bigger Christmas or help other people in need," Wilder tells EastIdahoNews.com.
The Idaho Falls business hosted its first treasure hunt in summer 2022. That led to another treasure hunt during the holidays to help raise funds for the Idaho Falls Rescue Mission.
Austin and Zoey Prestwich of Idaho Falls were the winners of last year's holiday hunt. They found the box with a $2,500 cash voucher hidden in a tree in Tautphaus Park 15 days after it started.
"Zoey happened to also be past her due date so they found it just in time before their baby was born," Wilder says.
Earlier this year, Zach Johnson of Chubbuck and his 10-year-old daughter, Isla, found a treasure box with $5,000 along Gibson Jack Trail in Pocatello.
The incredible response to each of these hunts inspired Wilder and her team to bring it back for a fifth time.
"There are so many cool responses I get when people fill out our treasure hunt form of what they would do with the money. You'd be amazed at how many of them are saying 'I want to give this to someone who needs it more than me' or 'This will help me buy Christmas presents for my kids.' We love this community and the way they help each other find it," Wilder explains.
Wilder is grateful to all the sponsors who contribute to make this event a success. The goal is to host a treasure hunt again next year with a larger amount of money.
"Next year, we're hoping to hide $10,000 and years from now how cool would it be to give an entire house or a huge amount of money. It's going to keep growing and we're so inspired by the community," says Wilder.
A map of the treasure hunt boundary is included below. Happy hunting and good luck!
