FUNDRAISING IDEAS
How Your Fundraising Helps
Your efforts help support the many programs and services provided by the National MS Society, as well as fund important research into the cause, treatments and a cure for MS. Learn more at About the National MS Society.
Getting Started
Walk MS participants raise an average of $250, but they don’t do it alone. There are many resources to help aid your fundraising efforts. From basic fundraising ideas to how to use social media, we are here for you every step of the way.
Fundraising is as easy as 1, 2, 3
Step 1- Know Your Networks
To get started, make a list of every peron you know. Include the obvious people (friends and family) and the not-so obvious (neighbors, acquaintances, business associates, team members, alumni associates, etc.). Now you have your donor list. Need help? Use the Know Your Networks worksheet to help you put your list together.
Step 2- Set Your Fundraising Goal
Now that you know your networks, it's time to set your goal. Why not aim for the Elite 50 Club or Top Fundraiser Club? Remember to choose an attainable goal and that you can always adjust your goal throughout the Walk season. Click here for goal setting tips. Once you’ve set your goal, log into your account to update it.
Step 3 - Share your committment and make a plan
Once you've created your donor list and set your goal, the next step is what many people think of as the hardest part of fundraising: the ASK. Tell everyone what you are doing -- the excitement is contagious and your story will inspire others. Articulate why you are taking on Walk MS. Your commitment will be the reason they choose to give you a donation. Log into your account and tell your story on your personal page or mail out letters to your freinds and family. Below are a few sample letters:
- Donation request sample letter
- Person living with MS sample letter
- Team fundraising sample letter
Need some more ideas on how to reach your fundraising goal? See below.
- 100 Fundraising Ideas
- Walk MS Pin-Up Program
