Getting involved with Sponsorship Events

If so, congratulations are in order. If not, why not consider it a goal for 2002? These events can demand a significant commitment of both physical and emotional energy, but the rewards are well worth it. In general, these events provide great opportunities to meet like-minded people, to help a deserving cause, to spread information that can help others – and even a great way to get in shape!

Sponsorship events fall into two categories. The first is the mega-event, which is often a multi-day affair – sometimes requiring travel to attend – that also requires a fundraising minimum. The second is the smaller, local event – almost assuredly a one-day commitment – that lets you participate even without raising funds (as long as you pay the entry fee). Of course, the more you raise, the more people who are helped.

Some of the largest mega-events are produced by Pallotta Teamworks, in partnership with various corporate sponsors such as Avon, and by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Participants typically train for a 60-mile walk, a marathon, a 350-500 mile bike ride, or a triathlon. Marathons and Triathlons are typically one-day events. The walks cover 3 days, while the bike rides are 5-7 days, and those participants camp in a “mobile city,” complete with portable showers, mobile kitchens, and a medical M*A*S*H unit!

The smaller events are typically 5K or 10K runs or walks, often in support of a local cause, although there are also national programs that run these events in many cities. Many benefit large organizations such as the American Cancer Society, the National Kidney Foundation, and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Other events may benefit a local school, small non-profit organization, or private group.

Ask almost anyone who has trained for a sponsorship event, and you’ll find that the fund-raising is perhaps a bigger challenge and concern than the actual training! Most mega-events have a minimum amount, which if not raised, prevents the person from participating. Amounts generally range from $2000 to $5000, depending on whether or not the amount includes travel costs associated with getting you to the event. Smaller local events may not have a minimum, but participants are certainly encouraged to solicit sponsorships.

Benefits for the participant

Some of the personal benefits you’ll receive from participating in sponsorship events:

• The good feeling that comes with championing a cause you believe in,
• Focused physical training – and in some cases, personal coaching or mentoring from an experienced participant,
  The copyright of the article Getting involved with Sponsorship Events in Volunteering is owned by Lisa Stambaugh. Permission to republish Getting involved with Sponsorship Events in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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