Fundraising Tips

The Terry Fox Run is a fundraiser for cancer research. And research costs money. In keeping with Terry’s wishes, participants are not charged an entry fee nor are there minimum pledge amounts. Instead, Terry Foxers are asked to contribute what they can, keeping in mind that Terry was all about the effort, about taking himself to the limit for the cause.

We know that not everyone is a natural fundraiser. Asking for donations can be tough but you clearly believe in the cause or you would not be reading this page! Let us help make the “ask” a little easier with a few fundraising tips:

But one moment…before you even start the “ask” process you need to prepare your answer for the question almost everyone will ask you: WHY? You may support The Terry Fox Run because Terry inspires you: because you have personal experience with cancer; because the Foundation is a leader in fiscal responsibility; because you like the community feel to the Run; the answers are endless. Just know that if you speak from the heart, with passion and conviction, people will WANT to make that contribution. Make your donors feel as good about the Foundation as you do.

Raising funds online:

Online fundraising via terryfoxrun.org offers a simple, quick and secure alternative for donors who are web savvy. Once you have registered as an online participant you will quickly see how easy it is to reach out to everyone in your electronic address book and ask for support.

• When you complete your personal web page you have the opportunity to write a message about why you are participating – everyone who clicks on your link will read that message. Make that opportunity count with a thoughtful and passionate message.
• The email sent to your donors automatically includes a message about why you are asking for their support:
  • If you don’t hear back from your contacts, consider sending up a follow-up email with a personal message from you about why you think it is important to raise funds for the Foundation.
  • When you receive confirmation of a donation write the donor a thank you email with a warm, personal message.
• Customize your email address to add a line about your participation in the Run and include a link to your personal web page.
• Send out an email letting your friends and family know how you are doing in relation to your fundraising goal; it may coax potential donors to click on your link and boost your totals!

Raising funds using a paper pledge sheet:

• Always keep your pledge sheet with you.
  • It makes it easier to ask for donations anywhere you go.
  • Ask for payment immediately to reduce collections post-Run.
• Bring your pledge sheet to work with you.
  • Ask your boss and colleagues to sponsor you (and time it for pay day!)
• Start a pledge sheet for your child or pet.
  • Often donors like a different “take” on who they sponsor.
• Set an achievable fundraising goal.
  •  It will make your effort feel more attainable.
• If you have never used a pledge sheet before, start by asking 1 or 2 friends first and you will build up your confidence.