Raising Support Made Simple Guide
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The Seven Steps of Fundraising
We have broken down your Walk-n-Roll fundraising efforts into 7 easy-to-follow steps that you can take to watch your fundraising efforts skyrocket this Walk-n-Roll!
- Step 1 - Understand Why Supporting Cure SMA is so Important
- Step 2 - Setting A Goal for Your Efforts
- Step 3 - Identify Your Network of Supporters
- Step 4 - Choose Your Fundraising Methods
- Step 5 - Customize Your Fundraising Page and Share Your SMA Story
- Step 6 - Spread the Word and Get Donations
- Step 7 - Thank Your Supporters
Step 1 - Understand Why Supporting Cure SMA is so Important
As you get started, it's important to remind yourself of the importance of what you are doing for Walk-n-Roll and the impact it will have on the SMA community.
Below are some of the ways your efforts can impact the SMA community:
- 5 New Therapies have the potential to be released to the market for the SMA community in 2025
- SMA Advocacy Wins for the SMA community like progress toward accessible air travel and the elimination of the marriage savings penalty
- Greater Support Programs and community events for those affected by SMA
- Basic Research Funding to find therapies and treatments to improve the lives of those with SMA
- A Cure for spinal muscular atrophy
- And More...
Step 2 - Setting A Goal for Your Efforts
While it's essential to understand why you're participating in Walk-n-Roll, defining your fundraising goal will clarify how much impact you want to make. Your goal should be challenging yet attainable, inspiring both you and your supporters.
Goal Setting:
- Lead by Example: Set an ambitious personal goal to inspire yourself, your teammates, and your donors. The average participant raises over $200 – aim to be above average!
- Team Captains - Leverage Team Strength: Remember, the average Walk-n-Roll participant raises over $200. Grow your team size for the potential to raise even more funds.
- Matching Gifts: Check if your company, your donor’s companies, or your teammates' employers offer donation matching. This can double or even triple your fundraising efforts! You can check this by clicking here.
- Team Fundraising Events: Organize fun events like restaurant nights or Super Bowl squares to generate excitement and funds.
By setting a clear goal and exploring creative fundraising strategies, you can make a significant difference for Cure SMA. Remember, if you hit your goal early on, you can always increase it!
Step 3 - Identify Your Network of Supporters
Knowing who to ask for support can be a big hurdle in fundraising. Many people feel uncomfortable asking friends and family, but the truth is, they want to help. Remember, every dollar counts, no matter the amount.
Don't be afraid to reach out! Your loved ones are typically your biggest supporters. Plus, you’re not alone in this; everyone at Walk-n-Roll will be asking for donations too.
To help you get started, we've created a guide with potential people to ask. Click the button below to access it.
Step 4 - Choose Your Fundraising Methods
Now that you've identified who to ask, it's time to decide how you'll approach them. While there are countless fundraising methods, we'll focus on three of the most effective and easy-to-implement options.
Make a meaningful personal donation to kick off your fundraising efforts to show your family, friends, and colleagues how important Cure SMA’s mission is to you. Your donors will often use how much you donated as a reference to how much they will donate!
Posting a link to your fundraising page and the reason why you are looking to support the SMA community on your preferred social media channel is one of the easiest ways to raise a lot of money with very little work on your part.
We would also recommend creating a Facebook Fundraiser as these work particularly well. Click here to see how you can create a Facebook Fundraiser in the next 5 minutes.
Sending out personalized emails/texts or a mass email/text to friends and family, sharing a link to your fundraising page and the reason why you are seeking to support the SMA community, is a very effective way to raise funds quickly.
If you would like an example email or text you could use when sending out your own fundraising email/text, please reach out to us at [email protected]
Step 5 - Customize Your Fundraising Page and Share Your SMA Story
You're almost ready to make a big impact! Let's personalize your fundraising page to inspire more donations. Remember, while you're supporting Cure SMA, people are also supporting you. Make your page shine with your photos, videos, and personal story.
One of the most powerful ways to personalize your page is by sharing your SMA connection. Tell us your story! Are you living with SMA, a parent of a child with SMA, or a friend supporting the cause? Your unique perspective can inspire others. Even a short story can make a big impact.
Ready to get started? Check out our quick guide on customizing your fundraising page by clicking the button below:
Want some inspiration? Read Walk-n-Roll participant Tim's moving story as an example:
“ I remember when I attended my first event and had no idea what SMA was, no idea what to expect or how things would go. What I found out though was that this group of excellent people were there to support, encourage, lift up, and love on me and my family. We have appreciated all of the love that our son Malachi received along with all of the support he was given.
Unfortunately, Malachi has succumbed to this terrible disease, but our fight lives on, and our continued support will be given for other families that are dealing with SMA in whatever stage they are in. The Cheeks family will continue to be a fixture and voice for our community. Our prayer is that one day we will find a cure, and until that day, the fight will not be left unattended. Together we can achieve more. Best wishes to everyone and much love to you all.”
Step 6 - Spread the Word and Get Donations
Now it's time to share your incredible fundraising efforts with the world! Use the methods you brainstormed in Step 5 to reach out to the contacts you identified in Step 4.
Making the Ask:
We know asking for donations can feel daunting, but it's the most crucial step. Remember, you're raising funds for a worthy cause! By sharing your story and passion, you'll inspire others to join you.
Remember, it may take several asks to receive the donation - so do not be afraid to follow up!
If you are looking for personalized help with your fundraising efforts this Walk-n-Roll, email us at [email protected] and our fundraising experts will personally work with you to help you reach your fundraising goals!
Step 7 - Thank Your Supporters!
Saying "thank you" might seem simple, but it’s one of the most powerful things you can do. Acknowledging your supporters' generosity not only shows your appreciation but also strengthens your relationship with them. This can encourage repeat donations and inspire others to get involved.
Pro Tip: Show your gratitude publicly! Sharing thank-you messages and donor shoutouts on social media and email can inspire others to donate and create a sense of community around your efforts.
Remember, every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. Let your supporters know how their contributions are impacting the cause.