Walker Handbook
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
Dear Walker,
Thank you for joining the 10th Annual National Walk for Epilepsy. By participating, you are helping to make
the world a better, easier, more manageable place for the nearly 3 million people in the United States who are
living with epilepsy and seizures. Over the past nine years, thousands of people have participated in the
National Walk, raising over $6 million!
We are here to help you succeed. This handbook contains tips and tools to help you succeed in your
fundraising for the National Walk for Epilepsy. This handbook serves as a guide and not the rule. If you have
any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. On behalf of everyone here at the
Epilepsy Foundation, thank you for being a part of the National Walk for Epilepsy!
Important topics covered in this handbook are:
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How to get started fundraising
Writing your letter/email requesting support
Social Media tips
Creative fundraising ideas
Making a plan
FAQs
Getting Started
Fundraise
Now, let’s break it down for you…
Set a personal fundraising goal!
 Why it’s important: You have to know what you’re working towards in order to reach it. Knowing your goal
will help motivate others to help you reach it.
Customize your fundraising webpage!
 Why it’s important: Your story is important and the reason why people will be compelled to donate to you! Just
by adding photos and a short story will make people more likely to donate to you.
Identify your donors. Begin with those most likely to give a donation.
 Why it’s important: It builds confidence. Plus, your early success will encourage other donors to give! Use our
“Who to Ask” worksheet to jog your memory and get started.
Make a personal donation to your fundraising webpage.
 Why it’s important: Your donation request is so much more
compelling when you can point to your personal donation as
proof of your commitment.
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
Ask for Donations
There are 3 ways to ask!
1. Ask through email
It’s easy with pre-written
fundraising emails. Use our
sample emails. Copy, paste,
personalize and send!
Add the Walk logo and a link to
your fundraising webpage in your
email signature to easily get the
word out to all of your contacts.
2. Ask in person
Make it fun! Potluck
dinners, bowling parties,
and gatherings at bars or
restaurants are great places
to collect donations.
3. Ask on social media
Posting regularly with a link to
your fundraising page is key.
Use our sample Facebook and
Twitter fundraising posts! Don’t
forget to include: # @
Start a Penny War at work
or at your children’s school!
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
Who to ask?
We find that the most successful fundraisers are those who aren’t afraid to ask their friends and family for
support—they will want to help you because this cause matters to you! Filling out this worksheet will help jog
your memory.
Make a Phone Call to:
1. Parents ___________________________
2. Sisters ____________________________
3. Sisters-in-law ______________________
4. Brothers __________________________
5. Brothers-in-law_____________________
6. Aunts/Uncles ______________________
7. Cousins ___________________________
8. Children __________________________
9. Nieces/Nephews ___________________
10.Grandparents _____________________
Send an Email to:
11. Accountant _______________________
12. Attorney _________________________
13. Babysitter ________________________
14. Dentist___________________________
15. Chiropractor ______________________
16. Landlord/Manager _________________
17. Real estate agent __________________
18. Physical therapist __________________
19. Physician _________________________
20. Wedding planner __________________
Drop Off a Letter to:
21. Pet Groomer/Vet___________________
22. Drycleaner________________________
23. Florist ___________________________
24. Barber/Stylist _____________________
25. School ___________________________
26. Supermarket ______________________
27. Manicurist________________________
Make a Phone Call to:
28. Bartender ________________________
29. Gym/Yoga Studio __________________
30. Pharmacist________________________
Others you might call or email:
31. College friends_____________________
32. Fraternity friends __________________
33. High school friends_________________
34. Facebook friends __________________
35. Children’s friends __________________
36. Children’s teachers_________________
37. Neighbors ________________________
38. Parents’ friends____________________
39. Former Co-workers_________________
40. Coach(es) ________________________
Maybe you know people from:
41. Work ____________________________
42. Bowling League ___________________
43. Gym or Yoga ______________________
44. Childcare _________________________
45. Place of Worship___________________
46. Coffee house _____________________
47. Neighborhood Café ________________
48. Camp ____________________________
49. Golf Course _______________________
50. Favorite Restaurant ________________
Don’t forget….
51. YOU can make a Personal Donation
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
`
Write a letter or Email
SK?people near and far a chance to support your fundraising efforts, send them a letter letting them know what
Give
you are doing and why!
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Use the contact list of supporters you developed and add more to it. Don’t say “no” for anyone
by assuming that they can’t or won’t support. Send them the letter or email and let them decide. Do not
hesitate to include casual acquaintances, as they will understand that you are seeking donations for a
worthy cause.
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Make the “Ask” include a call to action. Don’t just tell them what you are doing, ask for their help.
Include your personal fundraising goal in the text, and suggest giving levels. Do not diminish your request
by being apologetic or by saying something similar to “I hope you can donate something.”
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Make it personal. If mailing, hand address the outside envelope and hand sign each letter. For emails,
don’t send a mass email with everyone’s address showing. It may take more time, but sending individual
emails will make potential donors feel special. Write a short personal note to those you don’t see regularly,
i.e., “Mary, I hope this finds you doing well!”
 Put your HEART into it. Let them know why you’re fundraising. This cause is important to you - share
why. Don’t include too many facts and figures; instead include your personal story of why you have taken
on this task. Someone will donate to you because they know you, and want to support your efforts.
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Make it easy to donate. Include a link to your personal fundraising page and encourage online
donations. If mailing, include a return envelope for them to send their donation to you. Label the envelopes
with your address. It’s also nice to include a stamp on the return envelope. If they will be attending an
event, instruct them to bring a check payable to: National Walk for Epilepsy.
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Set a deadline. People are always motivated by deadlines. We recommend that you set a deadline
earlier than the event date. This way you can assess your fundraising and revise your plan if needed before
the actual deadline.
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Send a reminder. Keep a list of those who send in donations. Send a reminder to those who have not yet
donated. Include fundraising updates in your reminder. Let them know that fundraising is going well, but
you still have a bit farther to go. Sometimes, reminder letters are more successful than original letters for
bringing in the money.
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Send a “thank you” card. “Thanks” is a powerful word. It is nice to receive a note acknowledging the
importance of a donation, no matter the amount. Staying in communication develops a rapport that will
have many added benefits, from closer bonds of friendship to continued support for future efforts.
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
`
Sample Letter
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Dear____________________ :
I will be participating in the National Walk for Epilepsy on Saturday, April 16th
in Washington, DC. The purpose of the walk is to help the Epilepsy Foundation raise
awareness about epilepsy and to support epilepsy-related services, education,
advocacy and research.
Your tax-deductible donation will make a difference in the lives of 150,000 people
who will develop epilepsy each year in the United States. Your gift will support awareness
so that everyone understands what epilepsy is, and what it isn’t. It will support research into
new therapies and a cure for epilepsy. It will support advocacy and services so that people
living with epilepsy are able to participate in all life experiences.
Please consider making a donation to support me, even a small donation will help me
achieve my goal! You can donate to my online fundraising page <INSERT LINK> the process
is fast, easy, and secure. If you prefer, you can send your gift check made payable to the
Epilepsy Foundation to me at the address listed below.
Thank you in advance for your generosity and help. We greatly appreciate it!
[YOUR NAME]
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
`
Social Media
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we all know social media has become one of the most powerful outlets in today’s world. We encourage you all
to utilize it to help you succeed in your fundraising efforts. We have included some sample messages you can
post to your Facebook profile, Twitter page, or LinkedIn profile. Social media networks reach far more than a
phone call or email will and we know you can make a difference reaching out to yours!
Message One, after registration:
I’ve registered for the 10th Annual National Walk for Epilepsy. I hope you’ll join me as I DARE TO
RAISE AWARENESS. I walk because <insert your reason for walking> and I’m asking for your
support. Visit my webpage to learn more <insert hyperlink to your personal page here>.
Message Two, throughout campaign:
Did you know that Epilepsy is the 4th common neurological disorder in the U.S. after migraines,
stroke and Alzheimer’s disease? I’m raising funds to do something about that! Visit
my webpage <insert hyperlink to your personal page here> to learn more and support my efforts!
Message Three, throughout campaign:
I’m halfway to my goal, and only need $x more to reach it! Will you help me? Visit my page and make your
donation today <insert hyperlink here>.
Message Four, throughout campaign:
It’s only two weeks before this year’s National Walk for Epilepsy and I am so excited to participate and
make a difference in the lives of those who live with epilepsy. <Share your personal reason for walking
here>. Please support my efforts by donating and visit my personal webpage to learn more! <insert
hyperlink here>.
Message Five, after walk:
Thank you so much to everyone who supported my efforts to raise money for the Epilepsy Foundation.
The walk was this past weekend and we had a fabulous time! I was able to raise <$> and be a part of <#of
walkers> who raised a total of <$total of walk>! Thank you for your help and check out my page if you
want to learn more about the Epilepsy Foundation. <insert hyperlink here>.
Key Points to remember when utilizing Social Media:
o Always include a link to your personal fundraising page.
o Don’t be afraid to post frequently. Remember how quickly messages end up on the next page with
everyone sharing their own statuses.
o Publicly thank your donors on your page: Thanks to Jane Doe for her donation. Your support is so
appreciated!
One last great idea to utilize all your communication! Include a link to your webpage in your email signature:
I’m participating in this year’s Walk for Epilepsy. Visit my page to learn more and support my
efforts <insert your hyperlink here>.
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
`
More fundraising Ideas
Fundraising can be a lot of fun and there are many easy ways to raise money. We want you to
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enjoy your experience so we’ve provided a few great ideas to jump start your efforts! Some of
these ideas are quick and easy, some might take more time, but they will all be worth the
investment you make! Feel free to get creative.
Coordinate a “Dress Down Day”
At your office, ask colleagues to donate $5 to your fundraising efforts and then as a reward work
with HR to ensure that everyone who donates can dress casually on the designated day!
Corporate Matching Gifts
Corporations will often match gifts given to you by employees. This is a great way to double or
triple your fundraising efforts. Contact your HR Department for more information. Ask each
donor if their company matches charitable donations.
Spaghetti Dinner or Potluck
Host a spaghetti dinner or potluck in conjunction with your school, work, and faith-based or
neighborhood organization. Don’t forget to put out a donation jar for those who stop by.
Go Greek
Contact your local sorority/fraternity chapter and tell them that you are an alum (we’re
assuming you’ll have to prove this with some sort of secret handshake). Ask them if they would
coordinate one of their philanthropy/charity events to benefit your cause. Or just ask them for
help doing volunteer work for your event (have them bake cookies for your bake sale, for
example.)
Concession Stand Take-Over
Many sports venues and high school stadiums allow groups to work the concession stand to
raise funds for charity. Look into the arenas near you. Or, if your child’s little league does not
have a concession stand, ask if you can sell water and treats!
Restaurant Night
If you have contacts at a local restaurant or bar, or even if you are just a frequent customer, see
if they would let you plan an event. They could donate a certain percentage of their sales, tips,
or you could organize a celebrity bartending night. Proceeds of a signature drink or a meal can
go towards for your fundraising efforts.
Use your passion!
Host a clothing or book swap. Baby sit. Pet sit. Proofread and edit resumes. Make cakes or
cupcakes. Anything goes and can be turned into a powerful fundraiser!
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
`
Create a plan
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Set a fundraising goal and then create a plan to help get you there. Here are a few suggestions!
Raise $250
☐
Ask 4 relatives for $25
Ask 5 friends for $10 each
Ask 3 co-workers or neighbors for $10 each
Sponsor yourself!
$100
$50
$30
$20
$250
Raise $500
☐
Email Campaign:
Recruit 5 team members who will commit to sending out 25 emails asking for a
donation of $25. Even with a return rate of 25% you will raise more than $100 per
team member.
$500
$500
Raise $1000
Email Campaign:
Recruit 5 team members who will commit to sending out 25 emails
asking for a donation of $25. Even with a return rate of 25% you will
raise more than $100 per team member.
Partner with a Vendor:
Work with a vendor (i.e. Mary Kay, Stella & Dot Jewelry, Tastefully Simple) to set
up shop in your office lobby for the day or host a party at your home. Ask for 20%
of the sales to come back to the Epilepsy Foundation.
$500
$300
Casual for a Cause:
Host a dress down day at your office – charge $5 to participate
$100
Game Watch:
Invite 10 friends over to watch the Super Bowl, March Madness, Stanley Cup
(or whatever sport you all love) and ask for a $10 donation. Provide snacks and
drinks and it will be a party everyone will remember for a great cause!
$100
$1000
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
`
FAQs
SK?
What is the National Walk for Epilepsy?
The National Walk for Epilepsy is a community and family-oriented, non-competitive walk in our
nation’s capital. The goal of the National Walk is to raise awareness about epilepsy and seizures,
while also providing funds to support our mission to improve lives and stop seizures. Crowds of
over 5,000 people attend the event. A popular feature at the Walk is the “Ask the Expert” session
staffed with leading epileptologists and other supportive care professionals who answer
questions about living with and managing epilepsy.
When and where is the Walk?
The National Walk for Epilepsy is on Saturday, April 16, 2016, on the Washington Monument
Grounds in Washington, DC.
Where can I send a donation?
Donations can be sent to the Epilepsy Foundation 8301 Professional Place Landover- East, MD
20785. Please make all checks payable to: "National Walk for Epilepsy" along with a donation
form (also found at WalkforEpilepsy.com).
How are funds raised from the Walk used?
Funds raised support national and local initiatives that help support those living with epilepsy
and seizures, including school-based training programs, cutting edge research and advocacy at
the highest levels of government.
Is there a minimum amount participants must raise in order to walk?
The Epilepsy Foundation does not require individuals to raise a minimum amount to participate
in the walk. We ask individuals to register for the walk ($35 for adults $20 for children 12 and
under) and set a goal to raise additional funds from friends and family.
Are there key facts I should know?
65 MILLION: Number of people around the world who have epilepsy.
NEARLY 3 MILLION: Number of people in the United States who have epilepsy.
1 IN 26 people in the United States will develop epilepsy at some point in their lifetime.
BETWEEN 4 AND 10 OUT OF 1,000: Number of people on earth who live with active seizures at
any one time.
150,000: Number of new cases of epilepsy in the United States each year
ONE-THIRD: Number of people with epilepsy who live with uncontrollable seizures because
no available treatment works for them.
6 OUT OF 10: Number of people with epilepsy where the cause is unknown.
Don’t forget to visit www.WalkforEpilepsy.org for the most up to date
information and resources.
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255
`
Plan for the day of the Walk
Getting your t-shirts
There are 2 opportunities for you to pick up your official Walk t-shirt:
 Friday, April 15th
The Ritz Carlton, Pentagon City, VA
250 S Hayes St, Arlington, VA 22202
From 9:30am-5pm
 Saturday, April 16th
The Walk site- Washington Monument Grounds
From 7am-9am
Getting There
Walkers Village opens at 7:00 am. We encourage all teams to get there as early as possible so that you will have
plenty of time to park, meet your team, and enjoy the festivities.
EVENT SCHEDULE
EVENT COST*
T-SHIRT PICK UP
7:00 am
Adult $35
OPENING CEREMONIES
8:00 am
Youth $25
Virtual Walker $35
WALK LOCATION
Washington Monument
Grounds, 15th and
WALK BEGINS
9:00 am
Independence Ave SW,
Washington, D.C. 20024
ASK THE EXPERTS
11:00 am
* Early Registration prices shown – prices increase April 1, 2016
Epilepsy Foundation | 8301 Professional Place-East, Landover, MD 20785
WalkForEpilepsy.org | [email protected] | 1.866.433.9255