How to Get Sponsors for a 5K Run

Planning a 5K Run as a fund raiser can be very worthwhile IF you get sponsors to cover your costs. Last year when I planned the Sonic BOOM 5K, I secured one Title Sponsor ($1,000), two Gold ($500), four Silver ($250) and two Friends of SMdP ($100). I JUST had enough to cover my operating costs and raised $3,000 from registration.

This is what I have learned about securing financial sponsors for a less-than-250-runners event - ask small business owners! Small business owners would much rather pay a non-profit organization for advertising for several reasons: (1) they can write-off the cost, (2) it's an affordable method of advertising and (3) they feel a sense of giving back to the community.

Before you begin asking for contributions, break down your levels of sponsorship. Will your Gold level cost $1,000 and your Silver level cost $500? Make sure to list the benefits associated with each level as well. For example, O'Hare-Midway Limousine Service agreed to sponsor the Sonic BOOM 5K at the Gold Level ($500) this year. At this contribution level, they will be listed on all marketing materials and their logo will be included on the back of the race shirt. On the other hand, I just had a family donate $100 at the Friends of SMdP level. At this level, only a name will be listed at the event.

Most large companies require donation requests be made months—if not a year—in advance. This may work if you are seeking a product donation, but your chances of receiving financial support are much higher with business owners who have a vested interest in the area. I consider myself blessed to work with Santa Maria del Popolo School because the families and parishioners of the church truly support one another. Most of my sponsors have a strong connection to the school and/or parish.

Asking the businesses you patronize—your doctor, insurance agent, landscaper, restaurant owners, etc.—is a great place to start. Remember to not be afraid to ask. If they say no, just thank them for their time and consideration and move on. Here's what I tell others - do you think the person behind the counter at McDonald’s is hurt when they ask me if I would like to supersize my order and I say no? Not one bit!

This is key - when you are composing your solicitation letter, be sure to state your organization, event, event day/time and why you need their help. Include a deadline date to respond, methods in which they can reply, your contact information and, most importantly, tell them about your organization, your mission and what you plan on doing with the funds raised.

There is so much that goes into fundraising, but these are just a few important pointers that have always helped me. Fundraising is hard work, but it’s so rewarding when you see for yourself how the results impact a non-profit organization. Feel free to contact me for an example of one of my solicitation letters. Best of Luck!

Sonic BOOM 5K Run & Walk - Registration is OPEN



Funds raised benefit SMdP's Scholarship Fund

With spring right around the corner, participating in an April 5K is a great way to welcome back the season. Save the date for April 28th at 8 A.M. at Independence Grove in Libertyville, IL.

Last year I helped organize this run and it was TONS of fun! This year I expect even better returns. It was the first time Santa Maria had hosted a run and we couldn't have been more pleased - we had over 150 runners sign up!

Registration is OPEN

Click & sign up today to take part in this great run!

Sponsors Needed

I am actively looking for sponsors to help cover the cost of this event. Sponsors will be acknowledged in all marketing material and those who sponsor above the $250 level will be added to the race t-shirt. To find out how to become a sponsor, please contact the school at 847-949-2335.

Thank you to our Title Sponsor: Golden Legs Running. If you are in need of some great running shoes, check this place out. Make sure to tell them you were referred by the Sonic BOOM Race Director.

It's about time!

Welcome!  I am so excited to share with you what events I am currently planning.  This blog is long over due.  I'm always sharing my ideas and what I currently planning with others verbally - and now it's time to put them down on print (sort of).  It is my hope you get inspired to plan fabulous parties, raise tons of money and/or host an event others will be talking about months later.

A little about me...
Hello, I'm Laura Castillo.  I've always had a passion for event planning.  It started when I was in my mother's womb!  My precious mother - she loved planning things and loved a great party even more.  I can remember from a very young age sitting at a TABE conference helping my mother at registration.  I was hooked!

Throughout high school and college, I often took the lead on planning events.  It really wasn't until I started working at CSC, as a temp, that I actually started getting paid for my efforts.  I learned a lot from that job and gained a dear friend who taught me the true rules of the game (thanks Nora!). 

Today, I am a full time Event Planner with OML Worldwide.  I also work with Santa Maria del Popolo School with their fundraising efforts.  I encourage you to support both of these great organizations!

Thanks!