Marathon Fundraising Tips

If you have never raised money before for a similar event, please do not feel overwhelmed. We are providing some ideas based on efforts that have proven to be very successful.

1. Remember that you are raising money for the Children’s Cardiology Foundation (CCF) in support of pediatric cardiology research, education, and support services. We encourage you to reach as broadly as you can with your fundraising efforts. Even if someone does not want to sponsor you by making a donation, we see this as a great way of creating awareness for congenital heart defects (CHD) and CCF. Don't be afraid to ask for donations; you may be surprised by how much people really want to help a good cause!

2. Send out letters and emails to friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers, to inform them of your involvement with the Tri-City Medical Center Carlsbad Marathon. Provide your personalized donation form that explains CCF, a link to your personalized Active donation fundraising page, and a personal note about your marathon involvement. See the Events page for sample letters that you can customize.

Note: If you are sending out hard copies of the donation flyers, sending an addressed envelope with the CCF mailing address will significantly increase the percentage of people that will make a donation. Add a stamp to that envelope and it will make it even more convenient to make a donation. Many people will appreciate the convenience and will just hate to waste a stamp. Once again, this has proven to increase the overall effectiveness of fundraising efforts!

3. Consider asking companies you frequently give business to or work with often. Many companies actually budget a certain amount of tax deductible "good will" or donations to support their community. Talk or write to these companies, explain your involvement and fundraising goals, and request a donation. Again, you might be very surprised by their willingness and interest to support you and this worthy cause.

4. Ask local businesses if they will help you with your fundraising efforts by donating a percentage of their revenues on a designated CCF day or if they will put up your flyer and a jar for collection of donations. This approach can be very successful, particularly in restaurants, hair salons, etc.