Independent fundraising tour 2010

[jrswenberger]

Hello Everyone,
My wife and I are just starting to plan for a cross country tour in mid-2010. While riding, we'd like to also raise money for diabetes awareness and research. We have domestic and international touring experience. I even worked as a bike mechanic for nearly 5 years.

I'm a registered nurse working as a pediatric diabetes educator and my wife is a college professor with her doctorate in public health, preventive care. Other than working to partner with the ADA and JDRF, any suggestions on fundraising. Neither of us has done any fundraising in the past.

Thanks for any pointers or suggestions,
Jay

[Jackalope]

I did some fundraising on the GDR and had a flyer to show folks as I rolled into towns and found it appropriate.  the only thing that did not work for me, was handing out the flyers, I never got a response.  People wanted to give me cash, which made me feel uncomfortable.  I never accepted it.  So, the most effective way I found, is by email and digital methods.  If you set up some kind of pay pal account, it will be easy for people to donate.  I had to send people to the foundation website, and few (other than close family and friends) every donated.  Still I raised $1400, but I'm sure the amount could've been more.  I had a buddy raise a grand in a matter of days utilitizing the tools of the internet.  Whatever methods you choose, I wouldn't be too concerned with your total, you're doing a good thing and thats what counts. 

[jimbo]

Jay...you might try to personalize the effort by working with local families who have/had a family member with diabetes and try to get a pledge from them for a dollar to dollar matching gift. That could give you a starting point. I think you will have more success with local stories and using that to reach out to people locally vs. strangers you encounter on the trip.

We raised $40K locally for a local land conservation group last year with a "matching gift" from one family that we dedicated the ride to. (our 2008 trip is blogged at www.c2c4conservation.org)

Jim