- Since Team in Training events are physical by nature, sticking to the theme can help raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Consider a year-long fundraiser that incorporates sponsors paying "by the mile." Make a list of race events that you and your team will participate in such as half-marathons, iron-man races or bike races. Ask sponsors to donate a specified amount of dollars per mile completed. You can also give them an option for a "flat" rate. Make sure you set a collection date that is soon after the race. Send out "thank you" letters that include a picture of you across the finish line.
- A raffle is a basic yet effective way to raise money for your Team in Training. The two keys to a good raffle are a desirable prize and a reasonable price point for the ticket. Good prizes could include flat screen televisions, gift certificates or even vacation travel. If you can get these prizes donated, that can dramatically increase your fundraising profits! If not, set a good price point for tickets that can encourage volume purchasing. For example, you can sell raffle tickets for a 42" LCD television for $3 or 5 tickets for $12, essentially giving the person a free ticket. If you choose to do a raffle, check with your state laws about gaming regulations. For example, California law states that non-profit charities sponsoring raffles must register with the attorney general's office prior to such a raffle and report the amount of funds generated.
- Scavenger hunts can bring out the competitor in a person. They can also foster teamwork which directly relates to your Team In Training. Set an entry fee for each team. Make sure to limit the number of members per team, but make the number of competing teams virtually unlimited. Create a doable scavenger hunt list that can take two to four hours to complete, preferably between lunch and dinner. The list should have people crisscrossing the local town by car, foot and bicycle. Make prizes for the top three finishers, and ensure there are penalties for being late.
