So you registered for Wheel to Survive… Now what?
Let’s face it – asking your friends, family and coworkers to open their hearts (and wallets) to ovarian cancer research can be intimidating, which is why we have compiled this simple, yet comprehensive list of ways you can meet and even exceed your fundraising goal!
1. Tell your story.
We are all riding for a reason. Someone was diagnosed, someone lived, someone died. We ride for our mothers, daughters, wives, sisters and friends. We ride so that no woman has to receive the devastating diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Make sure to include why you ride on your fundraising page. People are more likely to make a donation when they understand why this cause matters to you.
2. Break the ice.
Nobody likes to be first. It’s always a good idea to get the ball rolling on your fundraising page by making the first contribution.
3. Start with your close contacts.
Try sending some quick personal messages to your inner circle to build some momentum. Then start reaching out to your other contacts through a personal email. Remember – the most important part of your message is WHY this cause matters to you. Don’t forget to include the link to your fundraising page!
4. Now move to social media.
Once you’ve sent your first batch of emails, it’s time to turn to social media. One of the best strategies to use is tagging and thanking people who have already donated while you ask for new donations. This spreads your message further and lets the people you are asking know that others are already getting behind you.
5. Reengage with email.
Don’t hesitate to send a follow-up email. Emails are easy to overlook and people often open them quickly and then forget to get back to them. Use email to keep people up to date with your progress as you hit different milestones (50% raised, 75% raised, etc.) and ask supporters to help you hit your next milestone!
6. Continue thanking and updating on social media.
As more of your network gets behind you, keeping tagging and thanking them on social media. Make sure you continue to share your progress toward your goal.
7. Check to see if your company has a donation matching program.
Many companies have donation matching programs for their employees. This means your company will match (and in some cases double or triple) each donation you receive. It’s an easy way to make each dollar you raise go a little further. Check with your HR Department to see how your company will support your ride!
8. Explore other avenues.
Think outside the box! Many restaurants and retailers host “give back” events for important causes. Check with some of your favorite spots to find out if they would be willing to donate a potion of their sales on a given day to your fundraising page!
Fundraising often takes a little creativity and persistence, but it is vitally important to the 22,000 women who will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year. Your effort makes a huge difference in the lives of these women.
THANK YOU for accepting the challenge and choosing to join us for Wheel to Survive.