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Fundraising Tips - see
101 FUNdraising Ideas
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Be Optimistic!
Having a positive attitude will help you achieve great things! Excitement is highly contagious.
Know that you are making a difference for the better and be proud of yourself for helping the MS Society.
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Be Committed!
Make the first pledge yourself. When your friends, colleagues and family members see your name and a
contribution, they will be more willing to support your efforts.
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Set a Goal!
Set an ambitious goal, and let everyone know what it is. In previous years the Dow-TCC team averaged over $500
per rider, and many riders raised over $1000. ASK FOR A SPECIFIC AMOUNT! Tell everyone what your average pledge
has been and then ask him or her to beat it!
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Ask Anyone and Everyone!
Make a list of the people you can ask – make it long. If you limit whom you ask, you limit the amount you raise.
If you don't ask, they won't get! Ask 'everyone' to either join the team or pledge. You will either end up with
a huge team, lots of pledges, or both.
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Make a List of Places That You Spend Money!
Don't forget doctors, dry cleaners, dentists, gas stations and restaurants! And, don't forget all those friends who
have asked you to buy candy bars and Girl Scout cookies! All donations are tax-deductible.
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Network at the Office!
Post the sponsor sheet outside your door or in a busy area, by the coffee pots, or copier. Bring in bagels or donuts
to work, and put them by your sponsor sheet.
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Send Letters!
Send an announcement of your plans to participate in the MS 150 to friends, business associates.
Make it easy for them to reply by enclosing self-addressed stamped envelope. Put an announcement
about of your ride in your company, community group, church, school etc ....newsletters. Ask for their support in writing!
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Send Emails!
Email campaigns are very successful. Consider using humor in your emails. Maybe impress people with your
athletic prowess. Most people are astounded at the thought of riding 150 miles. Tell people how much their
contributions will help you peddle all those miles.
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Use Humor!
Gently remind your friends, co-workers and neighbors of all the favors you have done for them, and ask them.
Emphasize how much easier it is for them to simply write a check, than it will be for you to ride 150 miles.
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Use Online Donations!
It’s easy and fast and secure and there are no pledges to collect.
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Always Carry a Sponsor Sheet!
You never know when or where you’ll meet a potential sponsor.
Talk up the event at social gathering where people will get excited by your enthusiasm for the sport and the event.
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Follow Up!
Some folks just need a little reminder. Make a point to speak again especially with those people who
expressed interest or support but haven’t yet pledged.
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Learn About the MS Society and MS!
Tell your sponsors about the work of the MS Society, how
their contribution will help fund research and provide services for people with MS in Michigan and nationwide.
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Thank Your Sponsors!
After your ride, thank your sponsors. Share some of your experiences
on the ride and let them know how much you were able to raise with their help. Then thank them again!
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Plan for Next Year!
Keep track from year to year to remind yourself who and how much, and also encourage your sponsors to increase their pledges.
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Raise $500 in 9 Days!
Ask two of your family members to sponsor you for $25
Ask five friends to contribute $20
Ask five co-workers to contribute $10
Ask five neighbors to contribute $10
Ask five people from your church or temple for a $10 pledge
Ask your boss for a company contribution of $25, or better yet, see if they offer matching funds (double the money with little effort)
Ask five of your local merchants to sponsor you for $20
Ask two businesses you frequent to sponsor you for $25 each. This can be your doctor, dentist, hairdresser, barber, dry cleaner or mechanic.
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