Tell everyone you know about the Bike MS: Georgia Power Savannah Ride 2008 and encourage them to participate! Don’t make an assumption that someone wouldn’t be interested in participating; let them make that decision. You may just be surprised by who says “Yes.” Start making lists of people: co-workers, clients, vendors, friends, family, social acquaintances. Send letters and e-mails. Make follow-up calls.
Hook ’em with fun and then connect ’em to the cause. If people have fun, you will increase your team roster daily.
Use your own “This Is Why I Ride” story with potential team members. If another member has a particularly powerful story, ask them if you can share their story as you recruit. Don’t have a personal connection to MS? Be a “Champion” by joining our client partnership program, Champions Against MS, to recruit and raise money in honor of someone who has multiple sclerosis. Share their story (or your own) with friends, family and co-workers.
Use your company to help build your team. Ask a high-ranking executive to announce their support of the team and ask others to join the team. Ask your company to provide some type of financial help, i.e., pay for team member jerseys with company logo, host a fundraising day, etc. Talk with Human Resources or Wellness and Community Relations for assistance in recruiting efforts.
Schedule a visit for a member of the National MS Society Development Staff to come and give a presentation to potential team members and management at your company. You can also request additional materials to hand out and get signed up with a Team Captain veteran to offer advice and support.
For more information on how to create and build a successful team, download the
Team Captain Manual.
