Tens of thousands of supporters will lace up their sneakers at Walk for Hope to Cure Breast Cancer events in 11 cities nationwide this fall. This year, a new online fundraising component is increasing revenues for the event, bolstering support for breast cancer research, treatment and education at City of Hope.
The virtual fundraising system enables supporters to create their own customized Web pages, manage donor information, send e-mails and track donations — enhancing their fundraising abilities.
“Last year, the Walk campaign saw a 28 percent increase in online registration and a 15 percent increase in online donations,” said Raymur Sweeney, senior director of national events. ”We expect a significant increase in 2006 with the launch of City of Hope’s new virtual fundraising system and Hilton HHonors’ increased support.”
Hilton HHonors¨ has returned as a national sponsor and has issued a million-dollar challenge to its HHonors members. Hilton HHonors also is offering valuable incentive prizes for all Walk participants, including certificates for free hotel stays for top fundraisers.
Three new national sponsors have pledged their support this season, and returning sponsors have increased their backing, as well. 3M Post-it¨ Super Sticky Notes, Bamboo and Anne Michelle shoe retailers and Sebastian Body Double hair care products have all committed as platinum level sponsors. Wells Fargo again serves as a national sponsor, as does Orbitz, the online travel company, which has doubled its donation amount over last year by awarding a prize to the top team captain in each Walk market. Sandals/Beaches also has returned, and will award the Walk’s top individual and team captain fundraisers nationwide with all-inclusive stays at one of its resorts.
The family-oriented fundraising Walks continue to expand annually. The Walk campaign has raised more than $20 million since its inception more than 10 years ago. In 2005, more than $3 million was raised nationwide.
Three successful Walks already have taken place in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., San Diego and Edison, N.J. Walk For Hope events in coming months include: Dallas on Sept. 30; Philadelphia, Phoenix and Seattle on Oct. 1; Chicago, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., on Oct. 8; and San Francisco on Oct. 14.
Registration is open for 2006 events. More information is available on the Walk for Hope to Cure Breast Cancer Web site at http://www.walk4hope.org and at 800-266-7920.
