When I think of the word fundraising the word "fun" doesn't usually come to mind. In fact, to be perfectly honest, when I think of fundraising I think of the word "anxiety". However, if I really stop and think about it, most of my anxiety is in the beginning when I'm just starting to get the ball rolling. Once I see my first donation appear on my web page then my anxiety lessens and I tell myself it will be okay.
Awhile ago, I planned out various strategies for how I hoped to raise the money this year. I decided to choose one strategy at a time knowing that if that approach didn't work then I would choose one of my backup plans. As I mentioned in one of my earlier posts, my first plan of attack has been to send out personalized letters to friends, acquaintances, and co-workers. This year, I have been mostly focusing on the people who were kind enough to have made donations, on my behalf, for the 2008 Ride to Empower. Initially, I was concerned about asking them to donate again, but knew I had to muster up the courage and ask them. I have taken the approach that the more confident I am in asking for donations then my chances of getting positive responses will be greater. For example, I have been hesitant about asking for donations because I know people are struggling more because of the difficult economic times. In my effort to be confident, I have decided to address this issue from a different perspective. In meeting people, I have been explaining to them that because of the difficult economic times, the Network of Strength needs their support more then ever. Staying focused on why I'm raising this money has given me the confidence I need in order to raise the money.
The good news is that my first plan of attack has gone very well. I've already raised over $4000! I'm truly amazed by how generous people have been in response to my letters. It definitely warms my heart. I was debating whether to tell you about achieving my goal because I didn't want my announcement to cause any of you to have "anxiety". Rest assured that there is a long way to go before we meet in Red Rock Canyon. Also, unlike last year, there are different levels of fundraising. So, take a deep breath and relax. Although fundraising may not always be "fun" it doesn't have to make you "anxious". Last year, I didn't reach my goal until later in the summer. There are still many more months in which to train,as well as, raise the funds needed to meet your individual fundraising goals.
You may remember that when you registered, you received a Rider Welcome Kit from the Network of Strength. There was a main brochure included in that Kit. On pages 4,5 and 6 which are labeled "Strategies to Reach Your Fundraising Finish Line", you will find a number of tips and suggestions made by the Network of Strength in regard to fundraising. In fact, when I reviewed these pages and saw a suggestion about contacting local businesses, I thought that was something new I should try this year. I sent a number of my letters to local businesses. I mentioned, among other things, that I was a loyal patron of their business, and that if they made a donation then their name would appear on my website. I've received a number of positive responses from these letters. Please remember that there are many different ways to approach fundraising, With a little bit of ingenuity and determination, you will find yourself on the road towards success.
This year has been easier for me since I've been able to rely on my experiences from last year. I'm sure this applies to those of you who have had previous fundraising experiences. However, for those of you who are not as experienced, I want to offer you support and encouragement. You CAN do it!! Take one day at a time and try to stay positive and confident. Just know it's normal to feel anxious about the whole process but don't let that bog you down. Maybe fundraising isn't always "fun" but neither is biking, especially when you're riding against a strong head wind. However, I guarantee that when you have completed all of your fundraising and bike training goals, you will definitely have "FUN" in Red Rock Canyon. On the days your are feeling frustrated or anxious, try to keep in mind why we are all participating in this event. Think of all the women currently in treatment for breast cancer (which I know includes some of you), and push yourself forward knowing how important it is to make it to the finish line. As I continue to fundraise and train, I often think about how you are all doing, Try to feel the positive thoughts that I'm sending your way.
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