Getting Started 

The first step is to make a list of all the people, companies and groups you can think of who might donate to support your walk.

The people most likely to support you are those you know personally – friends, family, colleagues at work, business contacts and your employer.  Asking people personally for a donation face to face is always more successful than sending a letter.

Work out who is most likely to donate and approach them personally.  If that isn’t possible, try a phone call or send an email with the link to your personal online donation page, or send a letter.  You can download sample emails or letters below.  Personalize these with information about your story and why you want to take part.

Once you’ve approached all your personal contacts, think about businesses in your area or home town who might be willing to support you.  Try to contact the manager in person or on the phone – this will be more effective than just sending a letter.

If you send out emails and letters and don’t hear back, it is worth following up again a couple of weeks later.

Once you receive a donation, don’t forget to send a thank you note and to let them know about the walk!