Charitable walking events have been around in the United States for a little over 40 years. The March of Dimes foundation, a group that promotes healthier babies, hosted America’s first charitable walk in 1970. Since then, groups have organized walks or runs to raise awareness and funds for a variety of causes.
What can you do to make your walking or running event a hit? How can you get participants to come back every year? As a start, give them some motivation. Our products are perfect for these events and, not to mention, very affordable.
Prizes and Giveaways
A walk or run can be challenging. Aside from the actual event, weeks of fundraising and often training are put forth by participants before the big day. Throw in some fun giveaways to show your appreciation, in turn, motivate better training and fundraising.
If you’re raising money, give prizes to your top fundraisers as motivation for their best effort. Or, pair your marathon’s top runners’ medals with a more functional prize. Our personalized Deluxe Travel Duffel Bag makes a great gift for either effort. Aside from a large main compartment, this bag has a ventilated side pocket to store wet items or shoes. It also sports another zippered end pocket for accessories, a padded handle and a non-slip shoulder strap. Give the gift of comfort with the sleeved Sweatshirt Roll-Up Blanket. It’s made with a large pocket and sleeves for complete accessibility of your arms and hands, all while staying covered.
But don’t let other participants go unappreciated. Personalize a Medium Profile Value Trucker Cap for all event participants and volunteers. The hat is made of 100% cotton twill fabric and has an adjustable strap. It comes in a variety of colors to fit your group’s logo.
On-Site Fundraising
Consider selling items with your logo to raise some more funds at the event.
The sleek, colorful Striped Column Water Bottle is an attractive, useful gift that is sure to attract buyers at your event, no matter what you’re raising funds for. This modern bottle is made from shatter-resistant material with a silicone gasket that prevents leaks. Its modern design will be a winner at your event and is sure to convince people to give back to the cause. You can also sell items that walkers or runners could use during the event, such as a custom Soft Touch Jumbo Sport & Stadium Towel. This sport towel is made with 100% cotton and is great for participants that need to dry off. Both items are crafted with care and are affordable—perfect for sale at your event.
Walks and runs are great ways to get people physically active or involved in your group’s awareness effort. With a few fun items, participants and volunteers alike will appreciate being associated with your group and cause.
Learn More About How to Organize a Charity Run with Gifts For Runners.