Independent Events
FAQ's
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Fundraising
How much do I need to raise?
How much do I need to raise?
There is no minimum that each independent event fundraiser must raise. We do ask that once you sign up to host an event you make your best efforts to achieve whatever goal you have set. Independent Event fundraising can raise between $200 and $200,000 with the norm being in the $10,000 range.
What is the best way to raise money?
What is the best way to raise money?
There are any number of ways to raise money. It is important to get the word out about your event through Facebook, an event page, an event e-mail, and even flyers around town or at local shops. The more involvement you can get,the better! Make use of any local shops willing to donate to your event in any way and look for creative ways to raise funds at your event (raffles, cover charges, etc).
Creating an Events Page
How do I set up my event page?
How do I set up my event page?
Log in to your MMRF profile or register to create one, then follow the steps to create a new event. When you sign up to host an Independent Event online you will automatically receive a personal event page for your event.
Please note you will need to have the following information to set up your event:
- Name and date of event
- Location and address of event
- Start & End Time
- Cost to attend the event (per person)
- One sentence describing why you are hosting the event or your connection to multiple myeloma
- Two sentence description of the event itself
- Name and contact information for if someone needs more information
- Logo or photo (jpeg or gif) to represent the event. Stock images are fine.
Can you give me some tips on how to write a good event page?
Can you give me some tips on how to write a good event page?
The best event pages have all the pertinent information: name of event, date, start and end times, location, cost per person, a description of who is involved and why, and contact means to get involved, RSVP or request more information. In order to be included in MMRF online events listing, make sure your page includes all of these details. Also pictures are always a positive addition to any page. Use colorful letters and logos. See a sample event page here.
Can I make changes to my event page once it is set up? Can I add a picture?
Can I make changes to my event page once it is set up? Can I add a picture?
You can always edit or change your event page by logging in with your member login and going to your page. It will say edit in the top right corner. Make sure to press finish at the bottom when you are done.
Once my page is up, how do I spread the word?
Once my page is up, how do I spread the word?
Make sure to send this link to your constituents. It is a great way to get the word out. You can set a link to an outside page if you wish or channel people to your Tribute page if you would like to raise additional funds. You can add photos, information and logos to help attract people to your event.
Who do I contact if I am having trouble or have any questions?
Who do I contact if I am having trouble or have any questions?
If you any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to email or call the Coordinator for Independent Events at 203-652-0215.
Financial Questions
Are donations tax deductible? Will donors receive documentation of their contribution?
Are donations tax deductible? Will donors receive documentation of their contribution?
MMRF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All U.S. donations are tax deductible. Please note that in order to receive tax receipts all checks MUST be written to the MMRF directly. Online donations (via Tribute Pages) will receive a confirmation of their donation automatically shortly after making the contribution. This confirmation can be used as a tax receipt.
What do I do with cash and checks that I have collected?
What do I do with cash and checks that I have collected?
Within 60 days following the event, please deliver all net proceeds, made payable to MMRF at:MMRF
Attn: Independent Events
383 Main Ave
5th Floor
Norwalk, CT 06851
What about "Company Matching"? How does that work?
What about "Company Matching"? How does that work?
Many companies offer a Matching Gifts program, whereby employers match contributions made by employees. This is a BENEFIT for the employees. Be sure to use it!
The MMRF has a quick and easy tool to help determine whether your employer - or the employer of your donors - has a Matching Gifts program. Click the Matching Gifts Database link here and follow the directions. If you do not see the company you are looking for on the list, call their Human Resources Department. The database is sensitive to exact wording, so if the company name is not immediately found, it cannot hurt to make a phone call to doublecheck.Once you get the information, here is all you have to do:
- Have the employee fill out the Matching Gift form from their employer — it will either be an online form or can be obtained through the employee's HR department
- After completing the form, either forward the confirmation to events@themmrf.org or if it is a form that needs to be processed by the MMRF, fax it to (203) 229-0572
- Sit back and relax - We will take it from there!
Whenever you receive a donation, a good rule of thumb is to check the Matching Gifts Database to see if the donor's employer has a Matching Gifts program. If so, copy the information on your findings and send it to your donor when you send them a thank you email. Click here to see a sample "thank you" letter.
Remember that if you receive a donation from a couple with a joint checking account, and one of them works for a company that matches and the other does not, you can still submit a matching gifts request to the company that does match.
Still have more financial questions?
Still have more financial questions?
Please visit our Managing your Finances page to learn more.
