Your personal fundraising toolkit to make an impact in the fight against FA!
Fundraising is not easy, and it can feel awkward asking for help. It may feel like you’re burdening others by asking, but the truth is, people want to help—they just need the chance. By sharing your story and your purpose, you’re giving them that opportunity. Whether you’re participating in rideATAXIA for yourself or someone you care about, you can be proud that you’re taking action.
Fundraising is not easy, and it can feel awkward asking for help. It may feel like you’re burdening others by asking, but the truth is, people want to help—they just need the chance. By sharing your story and your purpose, you’re giving them that opportunity. Whether you’re participating in rideATAXIA for yourself or someone you care about, you can be proud that you’re taking action.
As the launch of the registration and fundraising site draws near—typically 3 to 4 months before ride day—consider how you’ll connect with potential donors. Explore the campaign ideas below to find one that resonates with you, or feel free to come up with your own approach! Whatever path you choose, take time to make a plan, you’ll be glad you did.
Once you’ve mapped out your plan to reach donors, set a fundraising goal for yourself. Aim for a number that’s both realistic and meaningful—something that inspires others to join you in making an impact. And if you’re nearing your goal with time to spare before ride day, consider raising it, as this can reignite momentum and encourage even more support when you reach out again.
First, you'll have to register. You can register as an individual or create or join a team. Find your event by clicking the icon button above. Consider that teams raise more than individuals—getting a group of friends and family together can amplify your impact. Add your photo and story to your fundraising page and team page and be the first to donate to your page. It doesn’t have to be a huge donation, but it will let potential donors know that you’re invested!
Sharing your fundraising page on social media is a simple and powerful way to spread the word, reach more people, and inspire others to support—and to make it even easier, we’ve compiled some social media assets in our Fundraising Toolkit to give you content ideas!
Fundraising for FA research is more than asking for donations—it’s taking action, spreading hope, and moving us closer to real breakthroughs. Every dollar you raise supports vital research and brings the FA community one step closer to treatments and a cure. Your efforts matter, and you’re making a powerful difference. Keep going—you’ve got this!
Team Sean Anderson challenged their friends and family to help them reach a fundraising goal, and they added a unique incentive. If they met their goal, they would wear chicken suits to the ride and do the chicken dance in front of 400 people. While we're sorry we missed getting video footage of said dance, here is this classic photo from the archives!
The research team at University of Florida held a fundraising competition. As motivation, the leader of the losing team had to take a pie in the face. Dr. Byrne’s team lost!
rideATAXIA Founder/Director Kyle Bryant was encouraged to shave his beard by donations of all sizes which added up to a significant result. But don’t fret, the beard grew back!
Recognizing your donors is a powerful way to show gratitude and encourage others to give to your fundraising page. A spirit chain is one way to do it. Each donor’s name is written on a link of the chain!
Laura Beth Jacquin sends out a post card to her donors each year as a thank you and an invitation to get involved again the following year. How nice is it to get snail mail that offers a way to make a positive impact!
Write letters to your family and friends telling them about your story and encouraging them to donate in support of your efforts. Feel free to use our Sample Letter Template linked here!
Many restaurants offer a program where they’ll donate a portion of sales to the cause. Many rideATAXIA Teams have already used this tactic to bring people together to make an impact!
The Lempicki Family, also know as Team Cousins for a Cure, took old school lemonade stands to the next level by offering snacks, hot dogs, and crafts all while spreading FA awareness!
The Walker family cooks and prepares hundreds of meals with volunteers at their local church. Community members can place an order and then pick up their meal or have it delivered on a specified day.
The "Carly's Cruisers" team made T-Shirts to promote their team!
If you raise $1,000, you’ll get some fun rideATAXIA gear!
