In Person

Face-to-face asking is the most effective way to raise pledges. We say, "It's easier than you think," but we all know how it feels to ask someone for a contribution. You may fear rejection or feel embarrassed and nervous. Often all you lack is the confidence to ask sponsors for support. Be fully informed and the face-to-face request will be a breeze.

Use the following topics and sources of information to build your confidence about asking a prospective sponsor to contribute to the National MS Society.

  1. Remember you are asking for the contribution on behalf of the one-third of a million Americans with MS. Don't feel guilty or greedy-you are being generous! You won't lose friends or business contacts. Your image will only be raised in their estimation.
  2. Educate your potential sponsors, so that they feel more comfortable about making a contribution. Use the following information to teach them how funds raised through the MS Bike Tour will be used.
    • 78% of National MS Society monies are devoted to research, programs to help people with MS as well as their families, and to public and professional education about the disease. The Society spends well over the National Charities Information Bureau requirement to spend at least 60% of annual expenses on program activities.
    • 22% of funds raised are invested is National MS Society management and to cover the expenses of fundraising. It costs the Society approximately 16 cents to raise a dollar.
    • 70% of all unrestricted funds raised remain in the community where they were raised.

    Carry the above information with you when recruiting sponsors or create your own flyer to support the validity of your request.

  3. Treat your request as an everyday conversation. Don't start by apologizing! There is value in what you are saying. Build your request around your excitement and enthusiasm for the bike tour and the fight against MS. Share stories about your excitement for the MS Bike Tour and why your participation is important to you.
  4. Finally, make the appeal personal. Ultimately, your friends, family, and co-workers will support you because it is you doing the asking.

Using these guidelines to keep you and your sponsor well informed will take all the awkwardness out of asking for pledges. You may even find yourself having fun! Certainly, you'll feel good about advancing research and services for people with multiple sclerosis.