Fundraising and training: Top ten tips
Fitting training into your busy life
Says Neil, “Participants sometimes struggle to fit training in around their busy lives- work, family, social lives- but there are ways to make your everyday life more of a work-out. The key is time management.”
1) Get up earlier – just an extra hour will give you time to go out for a quick cycle with some stretching in the morning before work.
2) If you can cycle or walk to work do so. If this is not possible then why not cycle or walk to the station / bus stop in between home and work.
3) Use your lunchtimes to exercise – either walking or cycling.
4) Find a steep set of stairs i.e. five floors of a department store/office block and do five sets three times a week.
5) Have fun. Swimming, walking, running, squash, team sports will help you prepare, and most importantly, you’ll enjoy it.
6) Join a gym. The fitness instructors will be able to design a programme specifically for you. Most gyms have treadmills or exercise bikes or better still spinning classes where you can clock up mileage. Please note though that there is no substitute for getting out on a bike or hill walking in true conditions and your training will need to incorporate this.
7) Maximise your weekends. It is important on the weekends to make time for a bike ride / walk / run which replicates the terrain and relief of the challenge.
8) Get yourself a training partner – it does not need to be someone doing the challenge. Training with a friend will help push you a little harder and motivate you to stick to a schedule.
9) Get yourself a bike computer or a pedometer, so you can actually see how much further you are going each time you go out. You’ll find monitoring your progress encouraging.
10) Remember to stay hydrated while you train – drinking plenty of water during and after your workout.
Getting started with fundraising
According to Phee, “Beginning your fundraising can seem quite daunting, especially if you’re out to raise a large sum. It’s important to bear in mind that people are usually very pleased to give their money to someone who’s completing a challenge. They feel like you’re really earning the money, and because you’re challenging yourself people often want to support your endeavours. Do remember, too, that giving makes people feel good and they’re glad to be able to help by supporting you with donations and sponsorship. So don’t be afraid to approach people, knowing that what you’re doing is for a fantastic cause.”
1. Set up a fundraising team
Appoint a fundraising co-ordinator - someone with excellent organisational skills and the tenacity to get your team into shape and get the money rolling in! Your fundraising team doesn’t even have to be involved in your challenge- anyone willing to help you will be an invaluable asset.
2. Build a Fundraising Action Plan
Breaking down your fundraising target into different fundraising activities will make it look much more achievable. If you're looking for a helping hand then I’m always happy to visit teams to provide a fundraising workshop, and we can help write your action plan for you.
3. Create a Just Giving page
Go to www.justgiving.com/carechallenge to set up your online sponsorship form and send it to everyone, including friends, family, and corporate contacts. This is definitely one of the easiest ways of fundraising as you don’t have to worry about rounding up cash after an event- plus CARE benefits from Gift Aid on top of your donation.
4. Compile a launch email
You won't get sponsored if your friends and colleagues don't know that you need their support, so educate them.
5. Enlist the support of senior managers/executives
The chances are if you get your boss on board, your whole company will get behind you. They might also have some great contacts for corporate sponsorship.
6. Approach suppliers and corporate contacts
Your company deals with other businesses every day of the working week so use these relationships to your advantage. Ask them for support in your event preparations whether it's fundraising, kit, auction lots or vehicle sponsorship.
7. Publicise the event
Whether you use your company name or not it's great PR for you and your team. Don't forget to add your Just Giving link at the end of any press release. If you're looking for assistance with getting some coverage for your team please contact the CARE Challenge Team on 020 7934 9470 and ask to speak to Jo, (our PR and Communications Executive).
8. Check your company policy
Many companies match their employees' fundraising efforts with either a donation of £4£ matched giving. Make sure you check as a priority!
9. Organise fundraising events
Whether it's a pub quiz or a black tie dinner dance, events are a great way of raising funds.
10. Small change
Every penny counts! So make sure you're collecting them; at work, at home, at the gym and at the pub with a CARE collection tin.
There is more advice and information on training and fundraising in our online resources for registered teams, and the CARE Challenge Team is available for advice over the phone.
For any participating teams wishing to arrange a Fundraising Workshop with Phee, call the CARE Challenge Team on 020 7934 9470.
