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Hosting a charity walk or run is a fun and healthy way to unite people for a great cause. Whether you're organizing a 5K walk, a fun run, or a more challenging race, FundScrip can help maximize your fundraising efforts. By incorporating gift cards into your planning, you can purchase event essentials while also raising additional funds. Follow these steps to plan a successful charity walk or run using FundScrip.

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Budget

Start by setting clear objectives for your event. Consider the following questions:

• What is your fundraising goal?
• How many participants do you expect?
• What costs will you need to cover (permits, supplies, marketing, etc.)?

Step 2: Choose a Date and Location

Select a date that allows ample time for planning and promotion. Then, secure a location that fits the expected number of participants, whether it's a park, trail, or city streets. Make sure to obtain any necessary permits from local authorities.

Step 3: Gather Supplies with FundScrip Gift Cards

Using FundScrip gift cards, you can purchase essential supplies while raising funds at the same time. Consider using gift cards for:

• Drinks and Snacks: Water bottles, electrolyte beverages, fruits (bananas, apples, oranges, etc.), granola bars, protein bars, etc.
• Signage and Decorations: Purchase banners, posters, and directional signs from office supply or hardware stores.
• Volunteer and Participant Apparel: T-shirts, hats, or wristbands.
• Event-Day Equipment: Tables, chairs, tents, etc.

Once you’ve determined your shopping list, you can start using FundScrip gift cards to purchase event essentials and earn a percentage back for your cause. This way, your dollars spent can help your cause as much as possible.

Step 4: Recruit Participants and Volunteers

Spread the word through social media, email campaigns, and local community groups. Encourage early registration to gauge participation numbers. Additionally, recruit volunteers to help with check-in, water stations, and route guidance.

Step 5: Encourage Participants to Raise Funds with FundScrip

Beyond event registration fees, participants can contribute by making their everyday purchases through FundScrip. Distribute order forms well in advance of the event for members to buy gift cards for:

• Running Shoes and Athletic Gear: Participants can purchase shoes, clothing, and accessories from sporting goods stores.
• Post-Run Meals: Suggest using restaurant gift cards to grab a bite after the event.

Step 6: Execute a Smooth Event

On the day of the walk or run, ensure everything is well-organized:

• Set up registration and check-in areas.
• Have volunteers stationed along the route for guidance and assistance.
• Provide water stations at key points.
• Celebrate participants at the finish line with music, snacks, and acknowledgments.

Step 7: Thank Participants and Keep the Fundraising Going

After the event, send thank-you messages to participants, volunteers, and sponsors and share photos and highlights on social media.

Encourage ongoing fundraising by reminding supporters that they can continue to use FundScrip gift cards for everyday purchases to keep supporting your cause even after the event.

By integrating FundScrip into your charity walk or run, you can increase your fundraising impact. Start planning today and turn every step into a step toward fundraising success!