How to Get Started Fundraising

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1. Download the Get Started Packet
2. Create a plan and stick to it
3. Customize your fundraising web page
4. Send e-mails to promote your web page
5. Tips for Success
6. Write letters
7. Educate your supporters
8. Ask, ask, ask…
9. Follow up with e-mails and letters
10. More Fundraising Tips and Tools

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Download the Get Started Fundraising Packet

Download the Get Started Packet. The packet includes useful forms, fundraising guides and Can Do MS facts. (Tip: when prompted, click “Save” to save this helpful packet to your computer)

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Create a plan and stick to it

The most effective way to achieve your fundraising goal is to create a detailed plan that outlines your objectives.

•Set a goal.
•Start early so you can give people ample time to donate.
•Use the sample plan and checklist to help reach your goal.

Download the Fundraising Sample Plan Checklist

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Customize your fundraising web page

It’s easy and free! Your personal web page is your chance to customize your fundraising message to your family, friends and other donors.

How to customize a web page using Gift Tool:

•Register your team online. From the Vertical Express for Can DO MS home page, click on an event location.
•Follow the steps to register your team of 3 skiers, snowboarders or telemarkers.

Use this guide to help customize your web page:

Gift Tool’s Guide to Managing Your Web Page

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Send promotional emails

It’s free and easy! E-mail is the key to a successful online campaign because dynamic links in your e-mail letter offer donors direct access to your fundraising page. E-mail allows the donor to contribute immediately at the point of interest.

•Use your online fundraising page and e-mail tools.
•Import fundraising contact information in the e-mail tool.

How to send e-mails using Gift Tool:

•Go to the Vertical Express for Can Do MS home page. Click on an event location.
•Register your team of three and create a fundraising web page.
•Send emails to friends/family from your fundraising web page.

Make your e-mail campaign effective. Find out tips for writing effective e-mails.

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Tips for success

Make a fundraising plan, and stick to it.
Customize and personalize your fundraising web page.
Promote the availability of your donation web page.
Educate your supporters about the cause.
Ask, ask, ask.
Follow up with e-mails and letters.

Click here for more fundraising tips & tools …

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Write letters

Writing a personal solicitation letter to your family, friends, neighbors and donors is an effective way to educate people about Can Do MS and its mission of empowering those with MS and their families.

Use the sample fundraising letter and letterhead to help write your letter.

•Sample Fundraising Letter 
•Vertical Express Letterhead B&W
•Vertical Express Letterhead Color

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Educate your supporters

Educate your supporters about THE CAUSE, Multiple Sclerosis and Can Do MS. It’s important to show supporters how their donations are being used to help those with MS and their families.

Use the following information to educate yourself and your donors about the cause, MS and Can Do MS.

•About Can Do MS
•MS Education

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Ask, ask, ask

You won’t gain anything if you don’t ask, right? Don’t feel guilty for asking people for donations. People want to give as much as they can to a good cause.

Find out more on how to ask for money.

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Follow up with emails and letters

Take time to follow up with your contributors to encourage last-minute donations and to show appreciation for their generosity.

•Send reminder e-mails.
•Say thank you.
•Let people know about your progress.
•Write thank-you letters.

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