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Raising Funds
Why We Ride
Bike MS is a fantastic weekend of fun, but our main purpose for riding is to raise funds and awareness in support of ground breaking research and life-changing programs for nearly 7,000 individuals living with MS in Oregon and Clark County, WA. National MS Society funding supports scientific research to develop improved treatments and ultimately, a cure for multiple sclerosis.
Did you know?
- The Pacific Northwest has one of the highest incidence rates of MS in the world.
- Children as young as two years-old are being diagnosed with MS.
- More than half of all people with MS are unable to work.
People living with MS face an uncertain future because they cannot predict the timing, severity or nature of their symptoms. They often live, not knowing whether they will be able to continue working, caring for their families, or living the lifestyle they have grown to know.
Minimum Fundraising Requirement - $250
Bike MS is a fully supported, important fundraising event for the Oregon Chapter, National MS Society. All riders will be required to submit donations totaling at least $250, in addition to the Bike MS registration fee.
Fundraising Made Easy
Through our website, e-mail newsletters, and the Ride Guide, we provide you with an array of ideas, tips and tools to make your fundraising easy and successful. Your personal webpage allows you to customize your reason for riding with stories and photos. You can also send and track e-mails with direct links so your supporters can make a donation to your effort, online.
Feel free to contact Josh Townsley at 503.445.8347 or josh@defeatms.com at any time to discuss your fundraising plan and strategy.
Download Donation Tracking Form
Download Donation Mail-in Form
Receipt pads
Getting Started
Truly, the best fundraising tip is simply to be optimistic and excited! People will respond to your passion and energy. With enthusiasm and a plan, raising $250 or more can be easy. With a little dedication, you can be well on your way to earning a commemorative jersey by raising $500, or joining the VIP Club by raising $1,000 or more.
A plan will make it easier to acquire pledges. Here are some ideas to help you get started:
Identify your prospects. In addition to family, friends and co-workers, don't forget to include businesses you frequent and clubs or groups to which you belong.
Tailor your approach and the style of your message. Will you write letters, send e-mails, or ask people face to face? Will your message be serious or light and humorous?
For the best results, personalize your message with your reasons for riding. For instance, if you’re riding for someone with MS, mention him or her in your letter. Many riders reflect on their own lives, and explain that they ride because they can’t imagine facing a future in which continuing to work, or caring for their children, is so uncertain. Perhaps you’re looking to challenge yourself by riding your first century or your first organized event while raising money to end MS.
Publicize your pledge goal and ask each prospect for a specific amount.
Here are a few other tips to keep in mind:
- People tend to act upon personal requests. Individually address each letter and explain your story, your vision and your goals. Remember, if you are using postal mail, include a self-addressed stamped envelope to assure response.
- Send e-mails through your personal page - see My Participant Center. Your e-mail will automatically include a link to your personal page so people can immediately make a pledge with their credit card.
- Don’t be afraid to let people know you are striving to reach the VIP level or are aiming for the commemorative jersey at $500. Remember, if you don’t ask for a specific amount, your donors will almost certainly give less than they are able.
Donor Recognition
Our goal is to ensure that every person who donates receives appreciation and a record of their donation for tax purposes. For that reason, your registration packet will contain a sheet of thank you notes. For cash donations or donations of less than $100, this note also serves as the receipt for their contribution. For donations of $100 or more, a thank you letter that can be used for tax records, will be sent directly from the Oregon Chapter, National MS Society to the donor.
Prizes
Fundraising Prizes for Individuals
Team Rewards
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