By Kara Jacobsen
Whether you are a brand new walker or have been walking with us for years, everyone can benefit from some new fundraising tips to boost their Walk4ALZ team. Check out these expert tips that are sure to make you a Walk superstar!
1. Donate first. Consider donating even $10 to your own Walk4ALZ page! Doing so shows that you’re personally invested in the cause. Instead of it looking like you’re just asking others to give, the message becomes: “I did it. You can, too!”
2. Make it personal. A compelling story motivates donors to take action and helps convey to them why you’re so passionate about the cause. Upload a photo and share why you’ll be participating in the Walk4ALZ. What makes you such a passionate advocate for those living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease? People love to hear more about your connection to the cause.
3. Make a list. Sit down and make a list of people you’d want to reach out to ask for a donation. There’s no need to bombard your entire address book. Keep in mind that email is not the only tool. You can also give a family member or friend a call and share why this cause is important to you.
4. Send emails. Sending emails is the #1 way walkers receive donations! Remember, if you don’t ask, the answer is always no. We’ve created email templates for you in the Participant Center of the Walk website that you can copy and paste. We know that sending an email to so many people asking for their support can be daunting, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for some help!
5. Get social. Post your Walk link, change your photo, and tag friends to gain support. Let them know why you’re walking. This is a time-efficient way you can reach out to a wide network at one time.
6. Ask about matching gifts. Find out if your employer will match your donations. Many companies will match gifts that their employees make! Encourage those who have donated to your page to ask their employers, too. You never know until you ask…
7. Send out updates. Sharing your milestones will keep people engaged in your efforts. Send out a video or a message to show how much money you have raised and how far you are from your goal.
8. Say thank you. This is a truly powerful tool. Taking the time to write a handwritten thank-you note will mean a lot to those who support you, and shows them how much you appreciate them.
Set up your fundraising page today by registering for the Walk4ALZ >>
Have a question? Contact the Walk4ALZ Hotline by calling 858.966.3319 or emailing Walk4ALZ@alzsd.org.
