Thanks for signing up. We`ll see you in July!

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RIDE TOWARD A WORLD FREE OF MS
BIKE MS: TRAM RIDE » RIDE TOWARD A WORLD FREE OF MS
RIDER GUIDE
» JULY 20–24, 2016
2 /// SPONSORS
THANK YOU SPONSORS
LOCAL SPONSORS
NATIONAL SPONSORS
BIKE SHOP SPONSORS
BICYCLE CHAIN
Roseville n bicyclechain.com
COUNTY CYCLES
Roseville n countycycles.com
JAKE’S BIKES
Alexandria n jakesbikes.com
MAPLE GROVE CYCLING
Maple Grove n maplegrovecycling.com
TONKA CYCLE & SKI
Minnetonka n tonkacycleandski.com
Early and ongoing treatment with an FDA-approved therapy can make a difference for many
people with multiple sclerosis. Learn about your options by talking to your health care professional
and contacting the National MS Society at nationalMSsociety.org.
BIKE MS: TR AM RIDE /// 3
TRAM welcomes back three-day option
In 2015, we introduced a three-day ride option on TRAM. As a result,
we welcomed more than 100 riders who had never experienced
TRAM before. This year, we’re excited to bring it back!
The three-day route option is perfect for riders who prefer a
shorter jaunt or simply can’t get away for the full five days. As any
veteran Bike MS rider knows, TRAM is Minnesota’s best cycling
vacation and it’s an experience we think more people should
know about!
Spread the word, and help promote the three-day option by
sharing the news with people who enjoy taking the scenic route,
small town hospitality, Midwest cookin’ and everything else that
makes TRAM a one-of-a-kind cycling getaway.
Your participation in Bike MS helps change the world for people
living with multiple sclerosis. With your help, the National
MS Society funds more research and provides more programs
and services than any other MS organization in the world. Every
donation you secure fuels progress towards our ultimate goal:
a world free of MS.
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W e’l l
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Ride details
4-12
Where the money goes
13
Team up
14
Volunteers14
Fundraising clubs and prizes
2015 top fundraisers
Fundraising 101
15-16
17
18-19
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
4 /// RIDE DETAILS
CHECK-IN
CHECK–IN OPTIONS
FIVE-DAY RIDE
(check-in and first day on route)
Wednesday, July 20, 9–11 a.m.
Haehn Campus Center, College of Saint Benedict
37 S. College Ave., St. Joseph, MN 56374
THREE-DAY RIDE
Thursday, July 21, 6–8 p.m. -or- Friday, July 22, 7–8 a.m.
Kirkbride Park, 1599 N. Union Ave., Fergus Falls, MN 56537
For those checking in at Kirkbride Park in Fergus Falls, there
will be a bus to bring you back to your vehicle on Sunday.
HERE’S WHAT WILL HAPPEN AT CHECK-IN
n Turn in any money or matching gift forms you’ve collected that
haven’t already been submitted. (See page 19 for information about
turning in cash or check donations.) Be prepared with cash, check or
credit card to pay your remaining balance at check-in.
You will not be able to participate without confirmed donations
totaling your required minimum of $300.
n Collect your rider packet. The packet includes a wristband, which
must be worn all week long, a bike tag and three luggage tags.
n Receive your event T-shirt.
n Riders under age 18 must have a minor waiver notarized before or
at check-in. Learn about our youth rider policy at bikeMS.org.
AFTER CHECK-IN
n If you raised $1,000 or more, head to the Hoopla Tent for some
special perks.
n Put your tags on your bike and luggage.
n Get on your bike and enjoy the first day on the route.
UNDERAGE RIDER POLICY
All riders must be at least 12 years of age and accompanied by an
adult at least 21 years of age or older. Youth riders must have a
notarized waiver and release form completed with a parent or legal
guardian’s signature.
Visit the TRAM web page at bikeMS.org and click “Youth Riders” for
more information.
RIDE DETAILS /// 5
LUGGAGE
Each rider is allowed three pieces of luggage for the duration of the
event. When you check in, you’ll be given three luggage tags with
numbers that correspond to your wristband number. Luggage bags
have a weight limit of 35 pounds. If you have trouble carrying it, lighten
the load. Remember the volunteers who are loading and unloading
more than 2,000 bags every day.
Before you start riding each morning, pack your bags and drop them off
at the designated areas. Volunteers load them on the trucks, drive them
to the next host town and unload them. Your bags will be waiting for
you when you arrive.
MEALS
Participants are responsible for purchasing their own meals
throughout the week. Each host town will provide several options
for dinner, including vendors in the parks, shuttles to restaurants or
a meal at a church or other local organization. The average rider will
spend between $20 and $25 a day on food.
There will be two pancake breakfasts along the route! Hosted by the
Police Chief, the first is Thursday, July 21, at the VFW Post in Osakis.
The second is Sunday, July 24, at the Bowlus rest stop.
While on the route, the Upper Midwest Chapter will provide riders with
fruit, water, granola bars and other snacks. Riders will also receive a
finish line meal.
SHOWERS
Shower trucks will be available in each host town free of charge. Some
towns may offer alternative showers for a fee.
TRAILERS
Trailers or carriers are NOT allowed on the route.
WEATHER
Bike MS events go on rain or shine. We will
announce the most up-to-date weather
conditions each evening. Official weather
reports are provided by Schneider Electric. Please seek shelter
immediately if you encounter severe weather while riding.
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
6 /// RIDE DETAILS
RIDE DETAILS
ROUTE AND REST STOP INFORMATION
Bike MS: TRAM Ride is a three- or five-day bicycling adventure that
covers approximately 170 miles (three-day option) or 281 miles
(five-day option).
The route is signed and supported for the duration of the event.
The National MS Society does its best to provide rest stops every
10–15 miles, where you can get fruit, water, Gatorade and snacks.
First aid and bike mechanics are also available at every rest stop. All
support along the route is provided by volunteers. Show them the
appreciation and respect they deserve!
The ride officially begins at 6:30 a.m. each day. Riders must be on the
route by 8 a.m. Based on daily milage, the route closes at 5 p.m. on
days two, three and four, and 3 p.m. on days one and five. Participants
riding outside the designated hours are not guaranteed full route
support. Riders unable to finish the day’s mileage by route close will
be asked to take a support van to the end of the route.
ROUTE MARKINGS AND SUPPORT
While you ride, you should only be concerned about two things: having
fun and riding safely. While on the route, follow the orange arrows
every pedal of the way. You’ll see our route signs at each turn and even
on straightaways.
Several volunteer groups will support you during your adventure.
These groups help provide intersection safety, first aid, communications
support and more. Other important people to keep a look-out for are
listed on the next page!
Contact Lissa at [email protected] or 612-335-7984 if you or
someone you know is interested in volunteering for a route support group.
RIDE HELPLINE APP
To get additional route information, download our
Rider Helpline App at riderhelpline.info.
MOTORCYCLE ESCORTS
Motorcycle escort volunteers monitor and guide
cyclist traffic but are not permitted to stop or direct
car traffic. They ride motorcycles and wear safety
vests, so you can’t miss them.
RIDE DETAILS /// 7
BIKE SHOP MECHANICS
Bike mechanics are available at the start of
each day, at all rest stops during the day and
in the host town at the end of each day. We
encourage you to have your bike inspected
before the ride so serious problems can be
fixed before the event. See page 2 for a list
of participating bike shops.
SAG VAN DRIVERS
Just can’t push another pedal? Look for support and gear (SAG) vans
and give the thumbs down signal to be picked up. You and your bike
will be transported. NOTE: The trip to the finish line is not always
direct. Be patient as we pick up other cyclists. If you only want a ride
to the next rest stop, let the driver know. You can also use your rider
helpline app to request a SAG.
PERSONAL SUPPORT VEHICLES
Personal support vehicles are not permitted on the route. Please
understand the need to reduce vehicular traffic for your safety. If you
or your team wishes to use a personal support vehicle, notify Bike MS
staff. We can provide off-route directions between rest stops and
alternate parking locations.
TEAM AWARDS AND PHOTOS
Best team T-shirt will be judged Thursday; best team poem will be
judged Friday; and best team song will be judged Saturday. Sign up at
the information booth at host towns. Team competition schedule is
subject to change.
ROUTE PHOTOS
Remember the fun and challenge of Bike MS TRAM Ride 2016! Route
and team photos will be available at kimmorris.com. A portion of each
sale is donated to the National MS Society. Photos are professionally
produced, reasonably priced and available in a variety of sizes.
LOST AND FOUND
Check the information booth in each town or call 855-372-1331 after
the ride. Items not claimed by Aug. 31 will be discarded.
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
8 /// RIDE DETAILS
TIPS FOR ROOKIE RIDERS
Bike MS is not a race! This event is geared toward riders age 12 or older
who are able to maintain an average speed of 10 miles per hour and
understand and obey the rules of the road for safe biking.
It’s never too early to start fundraising. Each rider is responsible for a
minimum of $300 in donations, which is due by your check-in day.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME RIDERS
n The most important thing on your bike is a properly fitted saddle.
Spend some time in it to make sure it’s the one you want to be
sitting on for 25 or more hours throughout the week.
n Most riders start on the route before 7:30 a.m. Riders must be on
the route by 8 a.m.
n The speed of our riders averages from 10 to 18 mph. Don’t feel like
you need to go faster than you’re comfortable with; there are riders
of all speeds on this event.
n The longest lines for showers are usually between 1 and 3 p.m.
n Rest stop snacks and your finish line meal are provided at no extra
cost. Vendors and local restaurants will be available. Most riders
spend an average of $20 to $25 a day on food.
n Bring plastic bags for your wet gear (swimsuits, towels, etc.).
n You may want to bring a credit card and blank checks with you in
case the worst happens and you need some major repair on your
bike during the event.
n The bike mechanics come prepared with almost everything you
could possibly need. If you forget a water bottle or one of your
spokes breaks, see the bike mechanics!
n Your family and friends can join you for the lunch buffet at the finish
line for $10.
n On the trail, have sunscreen, bug spray, tissues and eye drops
readily accessible.
n Each host city committee provides information about the host town
and evening opportunities. Keep a look-out for fliers, magazines,
etc., when you arrive in each city.
n Shuttle bus schedules will vary in each city.
n As always, Bike MS staff are available to answer any questions or
concerns you might have at [email protected] or
855-372-1331.
RIDE DETAILS /// 9
PACKING LIST
CHECK-IN MATERIALS
qAdditional donations
qWaiver (if not already completed)
qMatching gift forms (if applicable)
CYCLING GEAR
qHelmet (required)
qTool kit/repair kit
qRearview mirror
qCycling shoes
qTwo water bottles
qPadded cycling shorts
qSpare tubes and patch kits
qRain gear
qMini air pump
qFirst aid kit
PERSONAL ITEMS
qToiletries
qTowel and washcloth
qMedications (pain reliever,
prescriptions)
qIdentification cards (driver’s
license, insurance cards)
qSunscreen and lip balm
qSpending money
qInsect repellent
qCamera
qSunglasses
qGarbage bags (use them to
line your bag in case of rain)
qFlashlight
qOrange shirt/jersey for Saturday
CAMPING/SLEEPING GEAR (if desired)
qWaterproof tent
qSmall pillow
qSleeping bag
qSleeping mask
qSleeping pad or air mattress
qEar plugs
ANYTHING WE MISSED?
q
q
q
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
10 /// RIDE DETAILS
ROUTE AND OVERNIGHT
The ride officially begins at 6:30 a.m. each day. Riders must be on the
route by 8 a.m.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 20
St. Joseph to Sauk Centre: 37 miles
n Rest stops: Avon, Albany and Freeport
n Route closes: 3 p.m.
Check out 57 Chevy at Sinclair Lewis Park in Sauk Centre
for Wednesday Music in the Park!
St. Joseph
St. Joseph is the start of the full, five-day ride and the finish for the 2016
TRAM Ride. The town offers many great things to check out while visiting.
From local gift shops and eateries to beautiful parks and the Saint
Benedict’s Monastery, anyone can find something to enjoy in St. Joseph.
Sauk Centre
Sauk Centre is situated on Sauk Lake with swimming, fishing, boating,
whiskey and winery tours, Redhead Creamery and the Glacial Lakes
Trail. Check out Sauk Centre Historical Museum, located in an original
Carnegie Library, or tee it up on Sauk Centre’s signature golf courses.
Enjoy a historical walking tour of downtown or geocache your way
through town. Be sure to take in Sauk Centre’s original main street or
visit the boyhood home of Sinclair Lewis — America’s first Nobel Prize
winner for literature. Get free visitors aide at 855-444-SAUK (7285) or
visit visitsaukcentre.com
THURSDAY, JULY 21
Sauk Centre to Fergus Falls: 70 miles
n Rest stops: Osakis, Alexandria, Brandon, Ashby and Dalton
n Route closes: 5 p.m.
Don’t miss the pancake breakfast in Osakis
or the Threshing show in Dalton!
Three-day riders will join TRAM in Fergus Falls.
Fergus Falls
Fergus Falls is delighted to be on the TRAM route for the fourth time!
As an anchor on the Central Lakes Trail, cyclists nationwide have found
this bicycle-friendly area a great stop on their cross-country routes.
With 1,048 lakes in the county and the Otter Tail River meandering
through town, there are many sports and recreation opportunities.
Biking, hiking, fishing, boating, birding — they’re all effortless in this
RIDE DETAILS /// 11
area. The Prairie Wetlands Learning Center, Otter Trail Scenic Byway
and two state parks are nearby, too.
Downtown is bustling with new shops, boutiques, restaurants and coffee
shops. Don’t miss the cobblestone RiverWalk behind Lincoln Avenue,
mystery tours, cemetery walks, the abandoned Kirkbride Building and
architectural tours.
FRIDAY, JULY 22
Fergus Falls to Wadena: 58 miles
n Rest stops: Underwood, Maine, Ottertail and Deer Creek
n Route closes: 5 p.m.
Wadena
Wadena is uniquely situated in central Minnesota as your gateway to
north country recreation. During your stay, visit the art deco downtown
with great shopping and many historic storefronts, public parks, the
Art Deco Memorial auditorium, the museum or beautiful three-screen
movie theatre. Visit the new Maslowski Wellness Research Center where
you can relax in one of the pools, use the exercise machines or walk on
the walking track. Call 877-631-7704 or visit wadenachamber.com for
more information.
SATURDAY, JULY 23
Wadena to Little Falls: 70 miles
n Rest stops: Verndale, Bertha, Browerville (2) and Randall
n Route closes: 5 p.m.
Wear orange and show your MS pride!
Little Falls
Where the Mississippi pauses, discovery begins. Take in all of the historic
attractions and museums Little Falls has to offer. Spend a lazy day on the
Mississippi River, visit the parks and stroll through historic downtown in
search of the past. Little Falls has something for everyone — “there’s nothing
little about it.” Visit littlefallsmnchamber.com for more information.
SUNDAY, JULY 24 — THE FINISH!
n Little Falls to St. Joseph: 46 miles
n Rest stops: Bowlus, Holdingford, Albany and Avon
n Route closes: 3 p.m.
Don’t miss the pancake breakfast at the Bowlus rest stop!
Participants will complete their day with a finish line meal, photos, and
more. Cyclists who rode the three-day route will board a bus to return
to Fergus Falls.
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
12 /// RIDE DETAILS
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS
New this year! Outdoor camping is provided in each community. If
you’re interested in camping and want a tent pitched for you, Out of
Staters’ Bicycle Club will provide tent services throughout the ride for
a fee of $65 per day. The tents fit two people and include mattress pads
and camping chairs. Visit oosbicycleclub.com/ride-ms to learn more
and sign up.
Host cities provide an RV parking area without hook-ups.
Shuttle service is provided to local restaurants and hot spots. Riders
will be charged $2 for shuttle passes, which will be available at the
information booth in each host city.
SAUK CENTRE n WEDNESDAY, JULY 20
Shuttle buses
AmericInn Lodge & Suites Sauk Centre, 320-352-2800
will be provided
Palmer House, 320-351-9100
to and from the
hotels listed on
America’s Best Value, 320-351-7256
this page. If you
Gopher Prairie Inn, 320-352-2275
choose to stay at a
Enchanted Inn, 320-248-0660
different hotel, you
FERGUS FALLS n THURSDAY, JULY 21
must arrange your
own transportation.
AmericInn, 218-739-3900
Hotel accommodations
Best Western, 218-739-2211
are
the rider’s
America’s Best Value Inn, 218-739-3311
responsibility.
Motel 7, 218-736-2554
Comfort Inn, 218-736-5787
Super 8 Motel, 218-739-3261
WADENA n FRIDAY, JULY 22
AmericInn Lodge & Suites Wadena, 218-631-1580
Brookside Motel, 218-631-2930
Eastwood Inn of Wadena, 877-425-7026
Crossings Parkers Prairie, 218-338-3380
LITTLE FALLS n SATURDAY, JULY 23
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, 320-632-1000
AmericInn Lodge & Suites Little Falls, 320-632-1964
Super 8 Little Falls, 320-632-2351
ST. JOSEPH
NOTE: For riders wanting to stay in the St. Joseph area before or
after TRAM, shuttles WILL NOT be provided. Reservations and
transportation will be the responsibility of the participant.
Super 8 St. Joseph/St. Cloud Area, 320-363-7711
College of St. Benedict Residential Housing, 320-363-5011
WHERE THE MONE Y GOES /// 13
CHANGING THE WORLD FOR
PEOPLE WITH MS
Collectively, Bike MS and other fundraising
efforts have helped accelerate research
breakthroughs that change lives and will end
MS forever.
n We are increasing investments in wellness
research, including diet, exercise and
complementary and alternative therapies.
n The National MS Society funds more
research than any other MS organization
in the world and is recognized as the catalyst for all major
advancements in MS.
n MS activists work to ensure people with MS have access to
treatments, information and support to make the best decisions for
themselves and their families.
n There are more therapies specifically approved for treating and
managing MS, and more potential MS therapies in development
today than at any other time in history.
n MS is more quickly diagnosed, enabling early and sustained therapy
to slow disease activity.
n There is much greater awareness of the many symptoms of MS and
ways to address them to improve quality of life.
n Scientists are making breakthroughs in identifying risk factors that
can increase a person’s susceptibility to MS, which will help lead to
ways to prevent the disease.
n Today, people affected by MS are more connected to information,
resources and one another than ever before.
n The National MS Society offers more programs and services than any
other MS organization in the world.
n Through Bike MS, you’re helping to accelerate progress and connect
people to the solutions they need to live their best lives — right here
in the Upper Midwest and all across the nation.
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
14 /// TE AM UP
TEAM UP
WHAT MAKES A TEAM?
A team is made up of four or more people who share a commitment to
the MS movement or just a love of cycling, or both! Teams come in all
shapes and sizes — anywhere from four to 400 people.
WHY FORM A TEAM?
Riding TRAM is a pretty amazing experience, and doing it with friends,
family or co-workers makes it 10 times better. With teammates at your
side, you’ll raise more money and have more fun — from the time you
register to the moment you cross the finish line.
FORMING A TEAM IS EASY
Designate a team captain, make up a fun team name, and when you
register online for Bike MS: TRAM Ride, choose the option “Create a
new team.” If you want to register with a team that’s already been
created, click “Join an existing team.”
If you’re already registered as an individual rider and would like to
form a new team, call 855-372-1331. Or, if you don’t have anyone to
ride with you, we can help match you with a team.
VOLUNTEER
Each year, thousands of people help move us closer to a world free of
MS by volunteering at National MS Society events. If your friends and
family members aren’t participating in the event, invite them to lend
a hand by volunteering. Volunteers receive a meal, a volunteer T-shirt
and are invited to stay at the overnight sites free of charge. There is a
volunteer position for everyone. For more information or to sign up,
visit bikeMS.org, or contact Lissa at [email protected]
or 612-335-7984.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE:
Intersection safety*
Loaders/unloaders*
Set-up/tear-down
Registration
Motorcycle escorts*
Photographers
Parking assistants*
First aid*
Rest stop assistants*
Food service
Ride marshals*
Massage therapists
Truck drivers*
Route markers*
Support and gear drivers
HAM radio operators*
*=greatest need
FUNDR AISING PRIZES /// 15
FUNDRAISING PRIZES
EACH RIDER IS REQUIRED TO COLLECT AND SUBMIT
A MINIMUM OF $300 IN DONATIONS.
Prize selections will be made following the event and are based on
money turned in on or before Aug. 19, 2016. Prize levels begin at $500.
The National MS Society, offers prizes to reward you for your amazing
fundraising efforts. Prize selections include bike shop gift certificates
or a Bike MS jersey. Riders who qualify for prizes will receive a letter in
the mail four to six weeks after the event.
CHOOSE “MISSION FIRST” FOR YOUR PRIZE
The Mission First Club is for those who choose to waive their prize and
direct those funds back to our mission. To join, simply choose Mission
First as your prize selection, and instead of receiving a prize, you’ll
receive the satisfaction of knowing those dollars are advancing the
mission of the National MS Society.
RAISE $5K, EARN THE BIKE MS PASSPORT
Cyclists who have raised at least $5,000 at Bike MS are eligible to
become a member of the elite National Bike MS Passport Program,
a special club for top fundraisers across the country. Passport
Program members have the opportunity to ride in any other Bike MS
ride without needing to meet the fundraising requirement.
HOOPLA TENT
Anyone who raises $1,000 or more by event day gains access to the
Hoopla Tent at check-in Wednesday in St. Joseph or Friday morning
in Fergus Falls. Stop here after you check in for some extra-special
perks. If you haven’t received your Golden Gears jersey, we’ll have it
for you at the Hoopla Tent.
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
16 /// FUNDR AISING CLUBS
FUNDRAISING CLUBS
It’s a good feeling knowing every dollar you raise makes a difference
in the lives of people with MS. Plus, you can join a prestigious Bike MS
club. The more money you raise, the more perks you receive, so get
moving — we’ll help you get there!
GOLDEN GEARS CLUB, $1,000
Raise $1,000 by event day and receive special perks on the ride. If you
asked everyone you know for $50 — only 20 people need to accept for
you to reach your goal!
n Free
registration for next year’s ride
n Access to the Hoopla Tent
n Reserved port-o-potties
n Rest stop perks at one designated rest stop per day
n Special gold wristband to recognize you on the ride
n Golden Gears Club jersey in your inaugural year and a star to add
to your jersey every year after
VIP CLUB, $3,000
Raise $3,000, and you receive all the perks of the Golden Gears Club
along with other perks. Set your fundraising goal high!
n Recognition
on route
n VIP jersey in your inaugural year
n Special VIP wristband to recognize you on the route.
n Ride two of the other four Upper Midwest Chapter Bike MS events
for free; no registration fee or fundraising required
n Dedicated Society staff to help you through the Bike MS season
MISSION STARS CLUB, $10,000
This is the big ticket. You receive all the perks of the Golden Gears
and VIP clubs in addition to recognition throughout the year for your
tremendous fundraising efforts.
n Rest
stop named in your honor
2014 TOP FUNDR AISERS /// 17
2015 TOP FUNDRAISING TEAM
Team Krebs Cyclers, $53,918
Team captain: Dudley Parsons
TOP FUNDRAISER n John Schenk
John has participated in TRAM for 17 years,
raising a lifetime total of $250,945 to help create
a world free of MS.
MISSION STARS CLUB Participants who raised $10,000 or more.
John Schenk
$26,325
Steve Schmitt
$21,900
Joann Johnson
$17,391
James Christopherson$14,900
Heather Tietje
Dudley Parsons
Josh Jacobson
Cliff Tower
$12,221
$12,097
$10,700
$10,007
VIP CLUB Participants who raised $3,000 or more.
Kevin Filter
$7,885
Jim Steiner
$7,275
Jacqueline Leavitt Stafford$6,791
Dave Britz
$6,730
James Kucera
$5,235
Rusel Jagim
$5,015
Craig Hanson
$4,855
Audrey Sumstad
$4,400
Henry Gerth
$4,325
Tom Shore
$4,235
Rolf Sumstad
$4,195
Tess Hohman
$4,160
Jonathon Crist
$3,910
Carol Risdal
$3,880
Lisa Hartke
James McGree
Greg Anderson
Daryl Arzdorf
Wayne Tellekson
Kevin Perry
Susan Hokker
Allice Miesbauer
Gregory Bistram
Glenn Schulz
Mary Enz
Gary Stang
Karin Tellekson
$3,870
$3,781
$3,780
$3,746
$3,635
$3,500
$3,460
$3,395
$3,235
$3,200
$3,185
$3,120
$3,100
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org
18 /// FUNDR AISING 101
FUNDRAISING 101
MAKE THE MOST OF ONLINE TOOLS
Invite friends and family to donate to you online and quickly reach
your fundraising goals with minimal effort!
FUNDRAISE WITH FACEBOOK!
If you haven’t installed the Facebook application yet,
just visit your Participant Center. Whenever you receive
donations or recruit a team member, Facebook automatically
sends a newsfeed update to your friends, increasing the visibility of
your Bike MS fundraising efforts!
YOUR PARTICIPANT CENTER
How it works
Everyone who registers for Bike MS gets a Participant Center, the hub
for managing online fundraising efforts. Using your Participant Center,
you can edit your personal page, where friends and family can donate
directly to you. You can also email donors, manage your campaign
and, for team captains, follow your team’s progress. To get to your
Participant Center, visit bikeMS.org and log in at the top right corner.
1.Update your personal page.
Your personal page is the place to share your story — why you’re
riding and raising money. It’s also the page where donors can
directly donate money. It’s easy to change content and upload
pictures or a video. You can even keep a blog on your personal page.
2.Send emails to friends and family asking for their support.
Easily import contacts into your address book from other email
applications such as Microsoft Outlook, Gmail or Yahoo!, or add
them manually. In just a few clicks, select and send an appeal for
support or a thank-you. Use a prewritten email or write your own.
3.Fundraise online. No cash, no checks, no hassles.
n Track
your individual, ongoing fundraising progress.
n Update
n View
reports on your team members’ contributions.
n Send
follow-up messages and thank-you emails to your supporters.
your fundraising goal.
Have questions or need help with online tools? Contact us at
855-372-1331 or [email protected].
FUNDR AISING 101 /// 19
FUNDRAISING TIPS AND IDEAS
n First
and foremost, set a goal. Make it lofty but attainable. This
motivates you, your teammates and your donors.
n Visit
bikeMS.org for sample fundraising letters and more tips.
n Sell
chocolate, calendars, TupperwareTM, magazines or other items,
with a portion of proceeds going toward your Bike MS campaign.
n On
a team? Hold monthly challenges for your teammates. Prizes can
be small items like socks, water bottles, special treatment on the ride, etc.
n Sell
concessions at a sporting event.
n Host
a barbecue or potluck lunch and ask for donations.
n Host
a backyard tournament like ladder golf, bean bag toss, bocce
ball or badminton.
n Contact
a local grocery store and bag groceries for donations.
n Are
you a computer whiz, awesome dancer or world-class chef?
Offer lessons in your area of expertise in exchange for donations.
n Place
a donation jar or event information at your work cubicle or
desk. Make the display eye-catching and creative.
n Include
n Use
a link to your personal page in your email signature.
Twitter to ask for donations or recruit team members.
n If
you’re on a corporate team, get the entire office involved. Ask the
company to donate days off or allow casual days for donations.
n Use
your company’s matching gifts program.
n Host
a “lunch and learn” at your office, and invite National MS Society
staff to present information.
COLLECTING CASH OR CHECK DONATIONS
Please turn in cash or check donations as you receive them.
Sending donations in before the event or encouraging your donors
to contribute online saves us money. Deposit slips are available to
download online. Visit bikeMS.org and click “Fundraising Tools.”
Drop off or mail your donations to the Upper Midwest Chapter,
200 12th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415. If you don’t include a deposit
slip (available online) with your donations, please include your name,
address and event name. Do not send cash. Checks should be made
out to the National MS Society. Be sure your full name and ID number
(found on the envelope this newsletter came in) is written on the
check’s memo line, which helps ensure the money is credited to the
correct person.
Bike MS: TRAM Ride 2016 • bikeMS.org