2008 walk ms team captain manual

2008 Walk MSTeam Captain Manual

March 29 • Walk MS - AlbanyMarch 29 • Walk MS - AthensMarch 29 • Walk MS - AugustaMarch 29 • Walk MS - ColumbusMarch 29 • Walk MS - MaconApril 5 • Walk MS - RomeApril 12 • Walk MS - AtlantaApril 19 • Walk MS - Marietta

TABLE OF CONTENTS

National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyGeorgia Chapter

1117 Perimeter Center West, Suite E101Atlanta, Georgia 30338

Phone: 678.672.1000 • Fax: 678.672.1015www.nationalmssociety.org/gaa

Catch the Team Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Corporate Team Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Top Georgia Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Team Captain Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 - 6Team Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Team Recruiting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Team Fundraising Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 - 10Sample Team Recruitment Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Sample Team Newsletter Article . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Sample Company Executive Memo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Sample Team Goal Setting Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Team Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Frequently Asked Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-16About MS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Walk MS 2008 Event Dates and Deadlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Team Roster Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

CONTACT USAdministrationRoy A. RangelChapter [email protected] HillDirector of Finance & [email protected] KarnikCommunity Development [email protected] CollinsOffice [email protected] DardenOffice [email protected] RunstenFinance [email protected] UdwinData Entry [email protected] ThompsonReceptionist

DevelopmentAilena Gibby ParramoreDevelopment Manager [email protected] KimDevelopment [email protected] ReeveSpecial Events [email protected]

ProgramsHilary LaMotteDirector of Clinical & Chapter [email protected] LaneDirect Services Manager Client [email protected] Earnest-DavisChapter Programs [email protected] PinionChapter Programs [email protected] ShepherdCare [email protected]

The Walk MS series is all about supporting each other.So why not form a team and stomp out multiple sclero-sis together? A team consists of four or more members.Your company, organization, or group of friends andfamily can increase its visibility in the community andpromote teamwork, loyalty, health and fitness all at thesame time! The Walk MS is an easy, fun, low-costsocial event for everyone to get involved in.

We believe the team concept can best be describedusing the following acronym:

T ogetherE veryoneA chievesMore

We all can achieve more by pulling together for onecentral goal — ending the devastating effects of mul-tiple sclerosis. The National MS Society is happy tohelp you recruit, motivate and grow your team. Utilizetheir knowledge and expertise of team building activi-ties and fundraising techniques to help you becomemore creative and innovative in your approach.

To talk to the National MS Society about additionalideas, techniques and opportunities for your team,you can contact a member of our Special EventsTeam at 678.672.1000/ 800-FIGHTMSor [email protected].

Now let’s get started! You may havealready accomplished some of thesesteps, but make sure to read through theentire list, to see what else you can dofor your team.

It’s easy to start a team:1. Choose a team captain.2. Register as the team captain and set up the team

name.3. Recruit at least three team members. (A team con-

sists of four or more members.)4. Be sure that everyone who registers for the Walk MS

completes the team section of the registration form. Every team member must register and check-inindividually on Walk Day.

Benefits to starting a team:1. Enjoyment of the entire Walk MS experience is

enhanced when you have others fundraising andwalking with you.

2. Fulfillment of getting out into the community as agroup and making a difference. Others will noticeyour involvement and commitment to making a dif-ference.

3. On Walk day, we will take a photo of your team tohelp you commemorate the day.

Team Captain Benefits:1. Leadership experience2. Organizational skills3. Networking opportunities4. Include it on your resume

CATCH THE TEAM SPIRIT

Team Hunt For A Cure

CORPORATE BENEFITS

Teamwork and Team BuildingEmployees will learn to work together in a social settingas they fundraise leading up to the event. They will learnto set goals, develop creative ways to achieve them,and put their ideas into action for the event. On eventday, they will see their hard work pay off as they walktogether to fight MS!

Corporate Pride and Employee RetentionContributing to a good cause and taking an active role inthe community will instill company pride in your employ-ees. After working together to meet their goals andseeing the success they can create together, the prideemployees will have in their organization will grow andthey will look forward to building on the success yearafter year. The Walk MS offers a fun and exciting oppor-tunity for employees to work together. Teamworkthrough the Walk MS can be a positive asset duringtimes of corporate change.

Community InvolvementBy getting into the community and working as a team fora good cause, your company will build a positive corpo-rate image and develop strong community relationships.You will strengthen your reputation with employees,clients and investors, and with a new audience ofpotential employees and customers.

Create a Health Conscious Work EnvironmentParticipating in the Walk MS will provide employeeswith a challenging athletic goal. This event promotesgetting in shape, learning healthy habits and findingways to save and utilize energy. Studies repeatedly

show that employees who maintain a healthy life-styleand exercise regularly have a marked decrease inabsenteeism and medical insurance claims.

It’s Easy to FundraiseFundraising together as a team through securing dona-tions and team-wide fundraising events can show yourcompany executives how committed their employeesare to working and walking together. Such a display mayeven lead to team sponsorship by the company.

It’s more Fun at the EventThe Walk MS is more enjoyable when you have a groupof teammates to support and encourage you along theway. Challenge each other, enjoy the scenery and reststops, and make lots of noise as your team triumphantlycrosses the finish line!

We Are Here to Help• The National MS Society Special Events Team will

make themselves available for corporate and teampresentations.

• Your personal team consultant will work with yourteam one-on-one, to help you establish team goalsand strategies.

• Our team captain network provides you with theopportunity to talk with your peers about team build-ing strategies. Call the office for more information.

To discuss any of the ways the National MSSociety’s Special Events Team can help your team,call 678.672.1000/ 800-FIGHTMS.

Teams link the National MS Society with corporate America and the local community in a partnership that supportsour mission of ending the devastating effects of MS. Uniting businesses for a common cause through team partici-pation creates community visibility and provides employees with a fun social outing at little or no cost to the com-pany. Here are just some of the ways your company can benefit by participating in the Walk MS:

TOP GEORGIA TEAMS

2007 Top 25 Fundraising TeamsAs of 2007 Pledge Deadline: September 30, 2007

TEAMS TEAM TOTAL

1 FUSiON $32,9952 Stewart Leprechauns $22,5553 Gardner Girls $20,3084 Team Carter $19,8735 Wall Tech Walkers $14,2066 Charlie’s Angels $12,8297 Team Dave $11,5208 A Closer Look $11,4269 King’s Ridge Christian School

Steppin’ on MS $10,86010 The Rehndrops $9,81511 Culpepper’s M.S. Conquerors $9,76212 Team Travelers $9,47013 Walk It Out $8,72914 Megan Mac’s Marchers!!! $8,55015 Hatcher Hikers $7,08316 Rhonda’s Guys and Dolls $6,67217 The MS Center of Atlanta $6,50318 Hunt for the Cure $6,02819 Walk and Roll $5,97120 Leg’s For Ladd $5,91021 Ashford Advisors $5,70822 Bank of North Georgia $5,68923 Walking By Grace $5,58024 A Walk on the Wild Side $5,56525 Faithmates $5,480

Top Teams by Number of Participating Members

TEAMS TEAM TOTAL

Team Travelers 68FUSiON 61Megan Mac’s Marchers!!! 59King’s Ridge Christian School - Steppin’ on MS 56Gardner Girls 55Ronald’s Rollers 50The MS Center of Atlanta 48Culpepper’s M.S. Conquerors 42Harbin Clinic 42Omega Phi Alpha 40Walk It Out 39Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 39Kelli Zaremba 38Teresa’s Cooks 38Christy’s Cruisers 37Maria’s Miracle Steppers 37Hunt for the Cure 34The Boeing Company 342nd Mt. Olive Women of Purpose and Destiny 34Fayette Middle School 33Walking With Faith 32Hatcher Hikers 31Isaiah 40:31 31Shawn’s Cross Walkers 31Erin’s Fight 30MIGHTY MUSCLES 30MS Eliminators 29Mighty Myelin 28First Monumental Faith Missionary Baptist Church 28Ruff Ryders 28Rowland Over MS 27Wilson Trackers 27Lindale Church of God 27

TEAM CAPTAIN OPPORTUNITIES

Create a Team Name: Pick a name that identifies yourorganization or group. This is how you will be recognizedthroughout the Walk MS. Be sure that each teammember knows this name and registers under the exactsame spelling of the name — it is the only way account-ing and data entry will be able to properly credit yourteam’s participation and fundraising achievements.

Register First as Team Captain: The first person to reg-ister the team name is automatically designated as theteam captain. Eliminate any confusion for your teammembers by registering yourself first. Keep in mind that itmay be helpful to assign co-captains to assist in yourteam’s efforts.

Register Your Team: Each team member must registerindividually. Please list your team name and team cap-tain on all forms. Remind all team members the impor-tance of providing individual contact information asinformation regarding the Walk MS is sent to each teammember via mail and email leading up to the Walk.

Set Your Goals: Set recruitment and fundraising goals,and start early! The sooner you start the more walkersyou will recruit and the more time they will have to raisefunds. Encourage your team members to set an individ-ual fundraising goal, and to keep track of their progressin reaching that goal.

Recruit Your Team: Tell anyone and everyone aboutyour team.

Promote Your Team: Ask people to join the team, vol-unteer, or donate to a team member. Be persistent!

Fundraise: First and foremost, the Walk MS is afundraising event to support all the research, pro-grams and services provided by the National MSSociety. Make sure they know above all else, this ismore than just a Walk to raise awareness. Each teammember is individually responsible for collecting andturning in money, but the advantage of walking on ateam is that you can work as a team to collect funds.

NOTE: There is a cost to the National MS Society for everyperson who registers to walk. So the society actuallyLOSES money when someone registers and does not raisemoney. Do your part to help by encouraging each teammember to raise dollars.

Hold Special Events: The success of a team can beincreased by holding special events to enhance yourteam’s efforts. Such events include team fundraisingevents (auction, company bake sale, MS Night Out) andteam recruitment events (registration party, kickoff get-together, wrap-up party). The National MS Society cansupply you with ideas and suggestions for how to con-duct them.

Keep Careful Records: Keep lists of who has regis-tered and shown interest in your team. Include phonenumbers, addresses, e-mail addresses, associations,and the date they joined the team. This will assist incommunicating properly with your team members and inrecruiting them again next year! The NMSS office canprovide you with periodic up-to-date team rosters, oryou can keep track on your own by utilizing the onlinetracking tools provides to team captains in the MyParticipant Center.

Communicate: As a team captain, you are the liaisonbetween your team and the National MS Society. Yourteam members will receive some direct Walk MS com-munication from the National MS Society. However, it isimportant that you reiterate any information given toyour team on the Walk MS or any additional informationyou may receive as a Team Captain, such as proceduresfor registering and turning in money, and what to expecton Walk Day.

Motivate Your Team: The Walk MS is a fun event, butthere are things you can do as a team captain to makeit even better for your team. Recognize and reward teammembers that go above and beyond. Send encouraginge-mails and make sure your team understands the causebehind the Walk. Have Fun!

Our popular Mission Possible Club continues to grow inmembership. Walk participants who raise $1 for everyperson with MS we serve in Georgia are eligible toreceive a beautiful Mission Possible plaque.

The local chapter provides client programs to 8,500Georgians seeking services from the National MultipleSclerosis Society.

Use membership into theMission Possible Club as afundraising incentive withyour team members. Set agoal to have at least one (ormore) team members toearn a spot in this presti-gious club.

The National MS Society, Georgia Chapter has an exclu-sive club called the Top 100 Club. The Top 100 Club iscomprised of the top 100 fundraisers from the previousyears’ Walk. It is a one year membership, which pro-vides you with special benefits exclusive to club mem-bers. NOTE: Top 100 Club ranking will be based onpledges turned in by September 30, 2008.

Recognize team members that may be current Top 100Club members and encourage others to find out howthey did it. Also, highlight team members that are cur-rently in the running to be a Top 100 Club member in2008. Friendly competition is a healthy way to encour-age fundraising.

Unpredictable. That is the essence of the mysterious,disabling disease known as multiple sclerosis (MS). Younever know when MS will strike. You never know whatthe symptoms will be or how long they will last.

Because some people affected by MS are unable towalk in the Walk MS, the National MS Society hasestablished Champions Against MS. This programallows Walk participants to walk on behalf of someonewith MS. Clients are encouraged to write inspirationalmessages on bright color bandanas which walkers thentake with them on the Walk. We further encourage contact between champion and walker.

Participate as a team in thisrewarding program by encourag-ing your team members to sign upto walk for a Champion. Walk asa team for someone you know. Ifyour team does not know some-one with MS, the ChampionsAgainst MS program will pair your team members withone of our clients served by the National MS Society.Give someone a reason to hope! Participants can signup for Champions Against MS during registration or cancontact the National MS Society, Georgia Chapter officeat 678.672.1000/ 800-FIGHTMS.

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TEAM CAPTAIN OPPORTUNITIEScontinued

CHAMPIONS AGAINST MS

TOP 100 CLUB

MISSION POSSIBLE CLUB

TIMELINE

First Steps• Decide on a team name.• Register yourself as team captain and set the team

name. • Set up your personal and team webpages. Email the

team webpage out announcing the team involvement. • Secure support from top executives or leaders of your

company or community.• Approach the marketing or contributions depart-

ments at your company about team support.• Inquire with the HR department of your company if

they have a matching gifts program. Have formsavailable when you approach co-workers.

Three Months Before the Walk MS • Request Walk MS Registration Cards from the

National MS Society - Georgia Chapter. Deliver topast team members and keep a stack with you to passout to potential team members. Ask permission toplace a stack along with a poster at key areas at work,your place of worship, or frequented businesses.

• Request official posters from the National MS Society- Georgia Chapter. Display Walk MS posters every-where (cafeteria, restrooms, lobby, bulletin boards).

• Get the word out! Place articles in your company/organizational newsletter, local paper, and website.Send emails to potential team members invitingthem to join.

• Plan a pre-Walk event to promote involvement — tobe scheduled the following month.

• Schedule a visit from a National MS Society SpecialEvents team member to meet with your departmenthead or speak to your co-workers or other potentialteam members about the importance of participating.

Two Months Before the Walk MS • Check your roster! You should have recruited at least

half the walkers needed to reach your team goals.• Announce your team’s current fundraising total and

how much more you need to reach your team’s goal.• Conduct your pre-Walk event. Have a meeting, party,

or give a prize away.

• Start sending weekly emails to your team memberscounting down the days until the Walk, announcinghow many team members you have and how muchhas been raised so far. You can also include fundrais-ing ideas from members, a listing of any top fundrais-ers and their accomplishments for the team, and anychallenges the members have for one another.

One Month Before the Walk MS • Arrange a phone bank for all team members to call on

prospects for pledges.• Recognize and reward your top team members. • Arrange last minute details with team members and

check on fundraising goals.

One Week Before the Walk MS• Send a reminder e-mail with the Walk MS start time,

photo time, team meeting place, directions to thelocation, and what they need to bring for check-in.

The Day of the Walk MS• Arrive at the Walk site early for easy check-in. Each individ-

ual team member must check in at the Registration areawith their signed and completed pledge envelope and anymoney collected to date. If the individual has at least $100,he/she will receive a Walk MS T-shirt. Even if no money isbeing turned in, a signed waiver must be completed.

• Set a meeting time and place for your team to have theirpicture taken prior to the Start. Have breakfast (availablein some sites), warm up, and then get ready to take stepsto end the devastating effects of MS!

After the Walk MS• Send a thank you note, memo, e-mail, or phone call to all

team participants.• Remind team members that fundraising doesn’t have to

stop because the Walk is over. They have 30 days after theWalk date to continue collecting donations and turn them in.

• Follow up with the NMSS to find out which team mem-bers have not turned in their money yet so you canencourage them to do so.

Get the Word Out• Once registered, log in to your online “Participant

Center” and create a Team Web Page. Email thispage to everyone you know to recruit new team mem-bers and to request support.

• Tell all your friends, family, co-workers and neighborsabout your Walk MS team.

• Send letters/emails to everyone you know announc-ing your commitment. Invite them to join you!

• Drop a Walk MS registration card on everyone’s deskand hang a poster in the break rooms.

• Asking someone in person is still one of the most effec-tive ways to recruit someone. If possible, letters andemails should always be followed up with a phone call.

• Create team business cards to pass out when some-one shows interest in the team. You never knowwhen you might meet someone that wants to partic-ipate! Be sure to include your contact information andthe team webpage.

Get Company Support• Ask the highest-ranking person in your company or

group to send out an endorsement memo announcingthat he/ she is participating (or supports your team)and asking others to join the team. Include a matchinggift form if your company participates.

• Talk with Human Resources or Wellness/CommunityRelations for assistance in recruiting efforts.

• If your team is not a corporate team, encourage teammembers to recruit their own co-workers as new teammembers.

Display Posters and Registration Cards• Display Walk MS posters and registration cards in

central locations and high-traffic areas at work. Writethe team captain’s name and phone number on theposters if anyone has questions, is interested in join-ing the team or volunteering to help.

• Display a large poster that tracks the team’s effortstowards their team recruitment goal.

• Display a “sign-up list” in accessible areas to createpositive peer pressure and encourage others.

Newsletters• If your company/community organization sends out

newsletters, ask them to include an article. List thenames of those who have agreed to participate andinclude your name and contact information if theyhave questions.

• Don’t forget to send out newsletters by email as well.The National MS Society’s online “My ParticipantCenter” tools provide you with email capabilities aswell.

Host Sign-up Parties• Host a sign-up rally during breakfast or lunch. Also

consider hosting something like an ice cream social.• Hold a new team member registration party. Encourage

each team member to recruit one new person to bringto the party.

Ask the National MS Society• Schedule a time for a National MS Society to give a

presentation to potential team members, HumanResources, management and/or officers at your office,classroom or meeting place.

• Request additional supplies of registration cards,posters, and MS information.

Make it Personal• Use your own “This is Why I Walk” story with potential

team members. If other members have a particularlypowerful story, ask them if you can share their story.

• Don’t have a personal connection to MS? Be a“Champion” by joining our client partnership program,Champions Against MS, to recruit and raise money inhonor of someone who has multiple sclerosis.

Make it Fun• Hook ’em with fun and then connect ’em to the cause.

If people have fun, you will increase your team daily. • Don’t underestimate the effect of team camaraderie

and building a dynamic infrastructure to the success ofyour team. People like to belong to something and be apart of a community. If they see that you and your teamhave a real bond, they will be attracted to it.

TEAM RECRUITING TIPS

PAGE 8

THE BASICS:Have enthusiasm! Excitement is highly contagious andit is important for your team members to feel how enthu-siastic you are about fundraising.

Show commitment! When you raise funds, you aredirectly helping people with MS by funding importantresearch about this unpredictable disease. Make the firstpledge yourself. When your team members (and potentialdonors) see your name and a contribution, they will seehow serious you are.

Share with the group! As you conduct fundraising,share your methods with your team members. By sharingyour mail/email campaigns and personal fundraisingevents, team members will become more comfortablewith fundraising for themselves.

Set Goals! Set a team fundraising goal and regularlyannounce the team’s progress through email, on theteam webpage, and in company email/newsletters.Utilize the Team Goal Setting section of this manual tohelp set goals.

Garner Company Support! Ask your company to pro-vide financial help; i.e., pay for team t-shirts, financialcontribution to the team, host a fundraising day, etc.Don’t forget about vendors that your company patronizes— they want to maintain that friendly “business relation-ship” and are generally more than willing to contribute.

Ask for Help! Identify a team member to serve as co-captain, or a group of members to serve as a team com-mittee. Ask for help in putting together one or more teamfundraising events. Delegate responsibilities!

Double your pledges! Ask the HR department if yourcompany has a matching gift program. Have forms avail-able when you approach your co-workers as each of theirpledges to you will be matched by your employer! Don’tforget to inform co-workers who are also teammatesabout this opportunity. Just by informing them of this, youcould double, maybe even triple your team’s contributions.

GOING THE EXTRA MILE:

The following are team fundraising ideas from veteran teamcaptains. Go the extra mile with your team by getting cre-ative and utilizing the resources of your own team members.

Do something Unusual! Shave your head, sing karaoke,or wear a strange costume all day if your team exceeds itsfundraising goal. To motivate company members, ask thecompany president or executives to do the same.

Hold a Drawing! For every $50 raised, team membersearn a chance to win a prize such as a special home-cooked meal or a paid day off.

Sell something! Hold a team garage sale, bake sale, orsilent auction. Provide breakfast/lunch at your office inexchange for a team donation. Hold a company-wide auc-tion and have team members auction off services such as ahome-cooked meal, four hours of yard work, or a carwash.

Recognize Top Fundraisers! Recognize top teamfundraisers (pre-set an amount) by providing free dinneror a reserved parking spot for a month. Be sure to includethe name of those team members that are close toreaching the “Top Fundraiser” status in regular emails toyour team as encouragement to reach the next level.

Get Team Sponsors! Ask businesses to sponsor yourteam in exchange for free publicity. Include sponsor logoson team t-shirts and in a sponsor highlights section ofyour team emails/webpage. Ask your favorite restaurantor bar to donate a percentage of one evening’s income toyour team in return for sponsorship privileges. Ask a localband to play for free and sell raffle tickets for great prizes.

Have a Themed Party! For a donation, throw a party!Have a denim & diamonds dinner, a pirate’s treasure hunt,or a holiday soirée. Hold a fancy themed dinner party inconjunction with a televised awards show. Dress it up byholding the party at a local restaurant and provide eachguest with the name of an award nominee with prizes forthose whose celebrity wins.

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TEAM FUNDRAISING TIPS

Here are some proven fundraising methods from National MS Society fundraisers around the country. If you haveother great ideas please share them with us and with other participants.

TEAM FUNDRAISING TIPScontinued

ONLINE TEAM CAPTAIN TOOLS

The National MS Society provides Team Captains witha number of helpful online fundraising tools at www.walk msgeorgia.org. When you register online for theWalk MS 2008, you are automatically assigned yourown personal web space, called the “My ParticipantCenter”, which is designed to facilitate every aspect ofyour fundraising. As Team Captain, your My ParticipantCenter provides you with exclusive team tools to assistwith team registration, tracking your team’s progress,reviewing and maintaining your team roster, and email-ing your team members.

• The Team Page is a webpage for your team,designed to assist in team recruitment and fundrais-ing. While default settings can be used, you can alsopersonalize this page with your team fundraisinggoal, pictures, and a story of why your team is walk-ing. Team members can register directly through theTeam Page.

• Donate/ePledge makes fundraising easy! This toolallows individuals to assist in your team’s fundraisingefforts by donating online with a credit card or check.Direct potential donors to support your team onlinethrough your Team Page.

• Customized E-mail messages automatically includea link to your Team Page, making it easier for friendsand family to register to walk or donate to the team.This also provides an easy way to email your teamwith important information, current totals andencouraging words.

• The Gift Summary and the TeamProgress sections provide detailed infor-mation and charts regarding your team’sfundraising efforts.

• The Team Roster allows you to maintain adetailed listing of registered team membersand their fundraising efforts. From this sec-tion you can print your team roster, down-load the team roster to an outside source,and email individuals or the entire team.

MATCHING GIFTS

Many companies sponsor matching gift programs toencourage employees to support numerous charitiesand non-profit organizations. Most companies matchdollar for dollar and some may even double or triplematch a donors’ gift. By informing your team membersof this opportunity, you could greatly increase yourteam’s fundraising total with little effort.

Helpful Tips for Matching Gifts

• Spread the Word about Matching Gifts: Encour-age all of your team members and event donors tosee if their company participates in a matching giftprogram. Please remind your donors to include infor-mation on whose event campaign they are support-ing so the gift will be credited to the correct eventparticipant’s account.

• Have Matching Gift Forms when you approachyour coworkers: If your company participates in amatching gift program, have the forms availablewhen you approach your coworkers to Walk ordonate. When a co-worker makes a contribution, youcan hand them a form to complete.

• The Earlier the Better: Enclosing the matching giftforms in your pledge envelope on the day of the eventor even before will ensure that your matching gift willbe included with your current year’s total. To assist usin the process, please include a copy of your pledgeform for the National MS Society to reference.

SAMPLE TEAM RECRUITMENT LETTER

Dear ________,

Put your best foot forward on [WALK DATE] by joining [TEAM NAME/ COMPANY NAME] in the Walk MS: Georgia 2008 to benefit the National MultipleSclerosis Society. Each step of the route will not only help the 8,500 Georgians andtheir families affected by multiple sclerosis, but also help researchers find a cure for thenumber one disabling disease of young adults.

This year the Georgia Chapter expects 5,000 walkers to participate in 8 sites acrossGeorgia. [TEAM/COMPANY NAME] wants YOU! Join the team — have fun —and help raise funds for MS research. Along with friends and co-workers, experiencethe hospitality of the Georgia Chapter with break points, great food, Support and Gear vehicles and medical personnel.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system.Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe — paralysis or lossof vision. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, but theunpredictable physical and emotional effects can be lifelong.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to advancing the cure, preventionand treatment of MS, and to improving the lives of those affected by the disease.

Join the [TEAM/COMPANY NAME] team by visiting www.walkmsgeorgia.org orcontact [TEAM CAPTAIN NAME] at [CONTACT INFORMATION]. Even if you cannot join our team, you can donate to the cause online or by contacting theNational MS Society – Georgia Chapter at 678-672-1000/ 800-FIGHTMS.

Sincerely,

Download the Sample Recruitment Letter from the Walk MS website at www.walkmsgeorgia.org.

WALK TO CREATE A WORLD FREE OF MS!

[COMPANY/ORGANIZATION NAME] is proud to announce the formation of a team to

participate in the Walk MS 2008 to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. [TEAM

NAME] led by Team Captain, [NAME], will be walking to help the 8,500 Georgians and

their families affected by multiple sclerosis by raising funds to find a cure.

This year the Georgia Chapter expects 5,000 walkers to participate at 8 sites across the state.

[TEAM/COMPANY NAME] will be walking on [DATE] at [LOCATION]. [TEAM/

COMPANY NAME] wants YOU to join the team — have fun — and help create a world

free of MS!

All employees, family and friends are encouraged to join [TEAM/COMPANY NAME]

at the Walk MS 2008. Visit www.walkmsgeorgia.org to register today or contact [TEAM

CAPTAIN] at [CONTACT INFORMATION] for more information. Even if you cannot

join our team, you can volunteer or donate to the team’s efforts online or by contacting the

National MS Society – Georgia Chapter at 678-672-1000/ 800-FIGHTMS.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms

may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe — paralysis or loss of vision. Most

people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, but the unpredictable physical

and emotional effects can be lifelong. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to

advancing the cure, prevention and treatment of MS, and to improving the lives of those

affected by the disease.

Download the Sample Team Newsletter Article from the Walk MS website at www.walkmsgeorgia.org.

SAMPLE TEAM NEWSLETTER ARTICLE

DATE: [DATE]

TO: All [COMPANY/ORGANIZATION NAME] Personnel

FROM: [EXECUTIVE NAME]

RE: Walk MS: Georgia 2008

[COMPANY NAME] is proud to have a committed and enthusiastic team participating in

the Walk MS 2008 to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Our team’s contributions

will support the work of the National MS Society through advancing the cure, prevention and

treatment of MS, and improving the lives of 8,500 Georgians and their families affected by the

disease.

This year the Georgia Chapter expects 5,000 walkers to participate at 8 sites across the state.

[TEAM/COMPANY NAME] wants YOU to be a part of creating a world free of MS by join-

ing them on [DATE] at [LOCATION]. Register online at www.walkmsgeorgia.org or contact

Team Captain, [NAME], at [CONTACT INFORMATION].

I would also like to personally invite you to join us on [DATE] in the [LOCATION] room

for a short informational session on the National MS Society, the Walk MS 2008, and [TEAM

NAME/ COMPANY]. Bring your lunch, meet your Team Captain, and find out how to get

involved.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms

may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe — paralysis or loss of vision. Most

people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, but the unpredictable physical

and emotional effects can be lifelong. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to

advancing the cure, prevention and treatment of MS, and to improving the lives of those

affected by the disease.

Sincerely,

Download the Sample Executive Memo from the Walk MS website at www.walkmsgeorgia.org.

SAMPLE EXECUTIVE (ALL COMPANY) MEMO

By setting goals — and attaining them — the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is making progress in the fightagainst MS. By setting goals as Team Captain, you will not only focus the team’s energy, but will also provide moti-vation to team members in helping to reach goals set. The Team Goal Setting form will assist you in setting goalsthat will help move your team forward. Team Name _______________________________________________________________Overall Goals:# of Walkers: ____________________ Dollars Raised: $______________________Strategic Plan:

1. Set up team web page through the National MS Society website.Due Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

2. Announce involvement through e-mail, company newsletter, or intranetDue Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

3. Form a team committee or appoint team co-captain(s) from separate departments/shifts/officesDue Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

Suggested people to ask: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. Check with company’s HR Dept. to learn if a matching gifts program is provided. If so, obtain a copy of the matchinggifts form to provide to all team members.Due Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

5. Obtain registration cards & posters from the National MS Society to pass out and display. Post a progress chart with your fundraising & recruitment goals in a visible area. Due Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

6. Recruitment activities Activity Date Goal❏ ____________________ _________ _______________❏ ____________________ _________ _______________❏ ____________________ _________ _______________

7. Team Fundraising activities Activity Date Goal❏ ____________________ _________ _______________❏ ____________________ _________ _______________❏ ____________________ _________ _______________

8. Send memo to all team members announcing team goals and activities. Due Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

9. Use online tools through National MS Society Website to communicate with team members weekly or bi-weekly.Due Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

10. Send thank you to all team members. Due Date __________________ Date Accomplished ____________________

TEAM GOAL SETTING

TEAM AWARDS

Participating as a team is not just fun, but rewarding aswell. At each walk site, the following team award win-ners will be chosen for going above and beyond in theirefforts. The Team Awards will be presented at theAwards and Volunteer Recognition Party in summer2008.

Top Fundraising TeamTo qualify for the top fundraising team, all pledge moniesmust be received thirty days after the Walk takes place.

Best Dressed TeamThe team with the most creative/colorful/event specificattire will be awarded the best dressed team.

Most Spirited TeamThe team that best exemplifies the traits of good sports-manship and team camaraderie will be awarded mostspirited team.

Largest TeamThe number of team members will be decided by thenumber of registered walkers.

Looking for new and creative ideas for team recruitmentand fundraising? The National MS Society – GeorgiaChapter is here to help! Let us share with you newideas, provide assistance in your current efforts, or evenhost a “lunch & learn” for your co-workers. Call us at678.672.1000/ 800-FIGHTMS.

How do I register my team members? You may register your team online at www.walkmsgeorgia.org, fax in registrations (678-672-1015) or mailyour registration forms to our office (1117 PerimeterCenter West, Suite E101, Atlanta, GA 30338). Makesure that the team name is included on the registration.

Is a separate registration form needed for eachteam member?Yes. There is vital information for our records that theNational MS Society needs for annual audit purposes.

What is the financial commitment for a Walk par-ticipant?

First and foremost, Walk MS Georgia is a series offundraising events to support the research, programs,and services provided by the National MS Society. TheGeorgia Chapter of the National MS Society does notcurrently charge a registration fee or require a minimumpledge amount to participate. However, each Walk par-ticipant is individually responsible for collecting andturning in money. NOTE: There is a cost to theNational MS Society for every person who regis-ters to walk. So the Society actually LOSES moneywhen someone registers and does not raisemoney. Encourage your team members to setfundraising goals that they can reach.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What will my team members need to bring the dayof the Walk?They will need to turn in their signed pledge envelopeand any funds that they have collected. NOTE: Each par-ticipant must turn in a separate pledge envelope. Teampledge envelopes cannot be accepted.

Will my team members receive any correspon-dence prior to the Walk?Yes. All registered walkers can download a walkermanual from the website, or can request one by mail. Inaddition, all registered participants will receive areminder postcard in the weeks leading up to the Walkdate. Walkers that include an email on their registrationform will also receive regular Walk MS E-Newsletters.

What time does my team need to be there?For all community walks (Albany, Augusta, Athens,Columbus, Macon, Rome), Walk MS offiicially starts at10am with registration beginning at 9:00am. Walk MS -Marietta officially starts at 10:00am with registrationbeginning at 8:00am. Walk MS - Atlanta officially startsat 9:00am with registration beginning at 7:00am. Withthe large number of walkers expected, we advise youand your team to get to the site early.

Will there be team photos taken at the Walk?Depending on the walk site, photographers will be avail-able to take team pictures. Make sure to visit the TeamTent after checking in to arrange for your team photo.

When are pledge monies due?Monies are due by 5 p.m. on the closing date exactlyone month after your Walk date. Pledges being mailedin must be postmarked by this date as well. All prizesand awards are based on that closing date.

Will we walk if it rains?Yes. We walk even if it rains. In the event of seriousweather (tornado, hurricane, etc.) please tune in to yourlocal radio/TV station for announcements relating to thecancellation of the Walk.

Where can I get registration cards and posters?Contact the National MS Society – Georgia Chapter

Office to request registration cards and posters. Theyare sent out on a first-come, first-served basis, whilesupplies last.

How can I participate in the Champions AgainstMS program?Contact the National MS Society – Georgia Chapter at678-672-1000/ 800-FIGHTMS.

Will there be support along the route?Yes. We provide several rest stops with food and hydra-tion, medical support, a Support and Gear vehicle, and apolice presence along the route.

Will food be served at the Walk?Depending on the walk site, we provide breakfast priorto the Walk, food and hydration along the route, andlunch after the Walk is completed. Contact the NationalMS office for a full disclosure of your specific Walk site.

Can a NMSS staff member come and talk to myteam?Yes. We are always happy to visit with our teams andassist them with fundraising, team building and answerany questions team members may have.

Where can I get pledge forms?Pledge forms can be downloaded from the website,mailed or faxed.

PAGE 16

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONScontinued

Team Velma Williams

ABOUT MULTIPLE SCLEROSISMultiple Sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. The symptoms includeblurred or double vision, and numbness or tingling of the limbs which can become as severe as total loss of visionor paralysis. Diagnosis usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 50, disproportionately affects women by a 2:1ratio, and is most common in persons with Northern European ancestry. While multiple sclerosis is not a fatal dis-ease, it offers no “protection” from any other disease whose likelihood is increased with age, heredity or lifestyle.The unpredictable physical and emotional effects are lifelong. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms ofMS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are giving hope to thoseaffected by the disease. The National MS Society recommends that people living with MS work with their physi-cians/neurologists to begin and maintain an appropriate course of drug therapy to manage their symptoms andlessen the severity of relapses. For more information about MS go to www.nationalmssociety.org.

THE MISSION OF THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETYThe National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a collective of passionate individuals who want to do something aboutMS now — to move together towards a world free from multiple sclerosis. The National Multiple Sclerosis Societyis working to accomplish this mission through a nationwide network of chapters that serve more people with MSand fund more MS research than any other voluntary organization in the world. In addition, the National MultipleSclerosis Society is the only national voluntary MS organization that meets the standards of all major agencies thatrate the fiscal responsibility of non-profit groups. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is proud to be a source ofinformation about MS. Please call us at: 678-672-1000/ 800-FIGHTMS for information and referral on any MSrelated issue. Our comments are based on professional advice, published experience, and expert opinion, but wedo not represent individual therapeutic recommendation or prescription. For specific information and advice, pleaseconsult your personal physician/neurologist.

85 cents of each dollar raised in theGeorgia Chapter is spent towardsending the devastating effects ofmultiple sclerosis.

WHERE THE MONEY GOES

ABOUT MS

40% Local Programs33% ResearchNational Programs

12% ChapterReserves

5% Administration

9% FundRaising

WALK MS EVENT DATES AND DEADLINES

March 29 Walk MS – AlbanyTIME: Registration begins at 9:00 am/ Walk begins at 10:00 amLOCATION: Darton College

(www.darton.edu)

Walk MS – AthensTIME: Registration begins at 9:00 am/ Walk begins at 10:00 am LOCATION: Herman C. Michael Park

(http://www.ocprd.com/herman-c-michael-park.aspx)

Walk MS – AugustaTIME: Registration begins at 9:00 am/ Walk begins at 10:00 am LOCATION: Stevens Creek Elementary School

Walk MS – ColumbusTIME: Registration begins at 9:00 am/ Walk begins at 10:00 am LOCATION: Riverwalk

(www.columbusga.org/parks/park_sites/riverwalk.htm)

Walk MS – MaconTIME: Registration begins at 9:00 am/ Walk begins at 10:00 am LOCATION: Lake Tobesofkee, Claystone Park

(www.co.bibb.ga.us/LakeTobesofkee/Camping.asp)

April 5 Walk MS – RomeTIME: Registration begins at 9:00 am/ Walk begins at 10:00 am LOCATION: Berry College

(www.berry.edu/)

April 12 Walk MS – AtlantaTIME: Registration begins at 7:00 am/Walk begins at 9:00 amLOCATION: Stone Mountain Park

(www.stonemountainpark.com)

April 19 Walk MS – MariettaTIME: Registration begins at 8:00 am/Walk begins at 10:00 amLOCATION: Marietta Square

(www.mariettasquare.com)

June 2008 Walk MS Awards and Volunteer Recognition PartyTIME & LOCATION TBD

• Pledge Deadline: All pledge monies are due one month after the Walk takes place.

• Top 100 Club and Top Team Ranking: For ranking purposes, pledge monies must be receivedby September 30, 2008 (close of fiscal year).

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Our gratitude to Georgia Power for their contributions of our printed materials.

ViSiT our WebSiTe!

www.WalkMSGeorgia.org

There is a wealth of information for Team Captains on the website including helpful tips for team recruitment and fundraising. It is also a handy resource for learning more about the National Mul-tiple Sclerosis Society and our mission of ending the devastating effects of MS.

2008 walk ms team captain manual

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