Event Info: Fundraise for 5K Your Way
To help you achieve your fundraising targets, we've put together some helpful tips to get you started. These are guidelines only, so don't be afraid to use your own flair and personality when soliciting donations. Remember, every single donation helps us advance our understanding of cancer - so don't limit yourself. You can do it!
Fundraising Tips
1. Start today — it's never too early to set your fundraising goal!
Get started by setting a fundraising goal for yourself. Prepare a plan that outlines what you want to accomplish each week and document your success along the way. This will make it easier for you to track your progress and reach your goal by doing a little each week. Make pledge forms available everywhere — at home, in the car, at your office — you never know when the opportunity to ask someone for support will present itself.
2. Get the background information
You will need to communicate to your potential donors why this is a good program, and support and provide them with background information if they ask for it. Don't worry if you're not able to answer a question. Simply contact us and together we'll find the answer your potential donor is looking for.
3. Be the first to make a donation
Be a leader and set an example by making the first donation a good one. By donating first, you will be expressing your dedication and support for the program. Ultimately, it's your belief in the cause that will help you reach your fundraising goal and your potential donors will follow your lead. This will help build your own confidence in your fundraising abilities and show potential donors that you mean business!
4. Share your story
Do whatever you can to share your fundraising story — make it global! Don't limit yourself to your own geographical area. You can write emails to friends and family around the globe or even hold a dinner party, car wash or bake sale to engage potential donors in your effort to raise funds for cancer research. You can share your story by logging into your personal page and using the available social media tools.
5. Corporate donations
Corporations are a good source of larger donations. Talk to your employer about giving a donation on behalf of the company or about matching the total amount that you raise. Or, if you know someone who works in a corporation, get them to ask if their employer would like to support the 5K Your Way.
6. Make a list of potential donors
Start your fundraising efforts ahead of time by making a list of all the people who want to conquer cancer. Think of family members, friends and work colleagues. These groups of people will be the easiest to approach, so start with them. Don't be afraid to branch out to find support elsewhere. Tell each prospect about the difference their donation can make. Your confidence will grow with each donation you receive!
7. Make the most of your Ask
Take some time to write down several things you think will have the most impact with the person you are going to approach. Give them background on your personal motivation, why you're involved and why it's worth their time to be involved and donate. It's all about making them feel empowered about making a difference — big or small.
8. Reach for the sky
Don't be afraid to set your goal high. Ask your potential donor to consider a specific amount that will spark their interest. Most donors are often in the dark about how much to give, so don't be afraid to help them out and suggest a specific amount. This might even help you go beyond your initial fundraising goal.
9. Thank you, thank you, thank you
Donors are the reason why we've achieved so much in the past. Take every opportunity to show your appreciation for their support.
10. Remain positive — no matter what!
Remember, not every potential donor you approach will say yes, so try not to get discouraged if people say no. Always remember that your efforts are appreciated and we're with you every step of the way.
Corporate and School Fundraising
Corporate and school participation are great ways to make a significant contribution.
You can round up work colleagues to make a corporate team of your own. Perhaps you can convince your boss to match your fundraising totals or make a donation on behalf of a company. New teams are welcome, so don't forget to tell them they can put in a team of their own!
Schools can help fundraise by putting together their own team. Make it a new class project that the students can work together on, such as a bake sale, yard sale or car wash. Students will learn about the importance of raising funds for cancer research and it will allow them to be a part of something meaningful and special.
Offline Pledge Forms
You can send in offline pledges by mail, email or you can personally hand them in at the Event Expo or Hospitality Tent on Event Day. Please ensure that your team name and chosen cause are on all offline pledge forms.
