It’s a fact of life. Each of us currently knows, or will know someone in the future who has cancer, diabetes, mental condition, aids, had a heart attack, stroke, or other life-changing diseases. These diagnoses and occurrences bring horror to patients and family members; as well as create an immediate need for information, affordable health care, accessible supportive services, and financial support for research.
I became involved in the cancer community as a fundraiser and event participant in 1999, before anyone in my family was diagnosed with the disease. Since that time, I have had two siblings, two aunts, and three uncles diagnosed with various forms of cancer such as colon, breast, prostate, lung, liver, virginal, and skin cancer. As I write this article, I am reminded that I have lost one aunt, three uncles, my oldest brother, and father to cancer.
This brings me to the point I want to make: There is a great need for public involvement in all charity programs. Sometimes we are turned-off by media reports of dishonesty in the ranks of mid – upper level managers hired to oversee and manage fundraising organizations. However, I do hope you realize the majority of managers and staff working in the fundraising industry are trustworthy and do what they say – they’ll do with our donations.
The achievements of these organizations are powered by commitments made by “regular” people. Meaning you and me! In fact, we do not have to be rich, have a college education, own a big house, drive an expensive vehicle, be an athlete, or be a certain age in order to get involved. All we really need is the heart and desire to help someone else.
I assure you; the benefits you’ll gain from your involvement with charities will be HUGE and could last for the rest of your life! How you ask?
On regular bases, our mailboxes are swamped with fundraising campaign letters and request for event participants. Avon Breast Cancer 3-Day, National Race for The Cure, The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk, The Aids Ride, and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society are the ones that come to mind because of my personal involvement. You may have stood on the roadsides and cheered or clapped for runners, walkers, or cyclist as they pass-by. You may have shared the road with me and other participants during these events. If no one has ever told you, let me be the first to say, “Your involvement and efforts were appreciated.”
The reality of you being a walker, bicyclist, runner, swimmer, or event worker during charity events is greater than you can ever imagine. Once you sign-up as an activity participant – you’ll never be the same. The benefits are as follows:
• You’ll be invited to meet other participants for training sessions
• You’ll have access to other participants in/or near your residence
• You’ll have a coach
• You’ll get fundraising training
• You’ll make new friends
• You’ll lose-weight and increase your overall well-being
• You’ll learn to eat healthier
• You’ll be a part of a movement that’s greater than you
• You’ll raise & contribute more funds than you could donor via personal check.
In 2000, I signed-up as a walker for the Avon Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk event, and raised lots of money due to donations from friends, co-workers, church members, associates, and strangers. Contributions were incredible! In return I walked for 3-days! This was the most rewarding and challenging commitment I had ever tackled in my life. It was truly amazing!
The preparation for this event helped me discard one-hundred pounds and improved my overall health. I also made lots of new friends and are still connected to them. Event workers are “crew members” and are not required to raise funds, although some do it anyway. Crew members are usually “event repeaters” and sign-up for the same team year-after-year; often a few become regular buddies to you during and after events. I still have crew friends and look forward to spending time with them, annually.
I hope this article inspires you to get involved with one or more charities. I guarantee event organizers, coaches; team leaders and participants will welcome you with open arms and make you a part of their fundraising community. Here are a few links to help get you started:
http://www.aidslifecycle.org
http://www.nationalraceforthecure.org
http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org
http://walk.avonfoundation.org
Tags: aids life cycle, Aids Ride, Avon Breast Cancer 3-Day, bicyclist, Cancer, Charity programs, commitments, Donations, eat healthier, Friends, Fundraiser Events, Fundraising, get involved, Helping others, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, life-style change, lose-weight, National Race for the Cure, Raising Funds, runners, The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk, volunteer, walkers, well-being