SET GOALS AND REACH THEM!
Goals are a motivational tool and will keep you going. Determine a personal goal and let your supporters know what dollar amount you are aspiring to reach.
HAVE ENTHUSIASM!
Excitement shows potential donors that you are enthusiastic about their support.
SHOW COMMITMENT!
Make the first pledge yourself. When your friends and family members see your name and a contribution, they will see how serious you are.
SOLICIT ANYONE AND EVERYONE!
Ask family and friends first. Once you’ve tackled the “easy ones,” branching out is simple. Next, ask clients, co-workers, clubs, anyone and everyone.
DON'T APOLOGIZE!
You are doing something good for the community, so don’t apologize for asking for support. People will respect you for the commitment you’ve made to a worthy cause.
REQUEST A SPECIFIC AMOUNT!
Consider keeping a separate pledge sheet for small and large donors. Tell sponsors what your average pledge has been and then ask them to beat it!
ASK FOR DONATIONS ON PAYDAY!
Timing is very important. “When” you ask is almost as important as “who” you ask.
MAKE A LIST OF PLACES THAT YOU SPEND MONEY!
Do not forget doctors, dry cleaners, dentists, hairdressers, mechanics and your favorite restaurants! Donations to the National MS Society are tax deductible, and we will be glad to provide receipts.
SEND LETTERS AND E-MAILS!
Send an announcement of your plan to participate to friends, business associates, church members, family and old acquaintances. Do not forget companies, organizations and school newsletters!
CREATE YOUR OWN WEB PAGE!
Create a personal Web page highlighting data about MS and the National MS Society, your own commitment to, and history with, the Bike MS Ride. With this Web page, people can donate online to you, see why you are riding and check up to see how close you are to your goal. Log in to the My Participant Center and get started today.
DOUBLE YOUR PLEDGES!
Contact your HR department to find out if your company has a corporate matching gift program.
STAY MOTIVATED!
Keep in mind that donors can help you reach fundraising recognition above and beyond the minimum donation. More importantly, you’ll feel good knowing that you made a difference in the life of someone with MS.
GET EDUCATED ABOUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETY!
You can contact the National MS Society or your local chapter and request useful pamphlets full of information. Also, visit www.nationalmssociety.org for more information.
GET EDUCATED ABOUT THE BIKE MS RIDE!
Download the Rider’s Manual to receive more important information about the ride. For more fundraising tips, download the Rider Manual.