Thank you to our 2012 sponsors: How I Organized My First NF Walk by Gwen Coverdale
NEIGHBORHOOD SPONSOR - $5,000
“When I was asked if I would chair the Philadelphia area’s first NF Walk I was terrified,” says Gwen Coverdale. “But I knew that this event had to happen. There were countless families in the region – mine included – that were depending upon this opportunity to meet others dealing with NF.” Coverdale’s first step was to turn to her friends from the Pennsylvania CTF Chapter. “There were just eight of us and that was our entire committee,” Coverdale explains. “We came up with a list of tasks that had to be completed in the ten week timeframe and divided them up according to our strengths and availability. One day I was writing press releases and the next renting port-a-potties!” According to Coverdale, there were a few people who were critical to helping ensure the Walk’s success. “The NF Walk Team at CTF was very responsive and provided us with the forms and direction we needed to stay on point. The other key person was Karen Sweeney, our local Parks and Recreation Director. She educated me on our Township’s rules and regulations and helped me map out the event.” In all, the Philadelphia, PA NF Walk was extremely successful and set new first-time Walk records for CTF – raising $50,000 and drawing 350 participants. “I have to say that this was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had,” says Coverdale. “I had the opportunity to work closely with a group of extremely talented individuals while helping meet the needs of our NF community. I’m already thinking about next year!”
Walk Partner - $2,500
Herbert Simon Family Foundation Found from website recreated PMS
For other first-time NF Walk chairs and committees, Coverdale offers the following tips: • Just do it – Once we made that first phone call or visited that first vendor we got over our fears and found that people really wanted to help. • Depend upon friends – We shared our needs openly and our friends and family came through, donating everything from catering to medical services. • Spread the word – Regular Facebook updates kept the Walk at the forefront of people's minds and generated excitement. • Focus on audience – At times the process can be overwhelming, but every call or email from an excited or grateful participant reminded us why we were doing this. • Share the wealth – Using Dropbox (a free virtual file sharing program) we were able to save and edit documents in one central location. Having everyone updating the same raffle or sponsor list saved time and prevented confusion. • Recruit volunteers early – Get a firm commitment from volunteers early so that you aren’t trying to cover gaps as Walk day approaches. • Express your gratitude – “Thank you” goes a long way when you’re working to establish a signature event. Make sure your walkers, volunteers, donors, and vendors know that their efforts are appreciated. • Relish the moment – The Walk day is a lot like a wedding, lots of work for one brief event. Take the time to enjoy it. NF News • Children’s Tumor Foundation | 11