
If you would like to receive additional information about participating as an individual, team, or volunteer, please contact Matt Thayer.
Q: What is the Arthritis Walk?
A: The Arthritis Walk is the Arthritis Foundation's nationwide walk event that raises awareness and funds to fight arthritis, the nation's number one cause of disability. The event takes place during the month of May in conjunction with National Arthritis Month.
Q: What is a team?
A: A team is any group of walkers who, individually, raise money that is applied toward a collective fund-raising goal.
Q: How can my company participate?
A: Companies can participate by organizing a team(s) of co-workers, vendors, family and friends to raise money and walk in the event.
Q: Is the Arthritis WalkSM limited to corporate teams?
A: No, in fact we also encourage team participation through civic organizations, schools, family and friends. Individuals are also welcome to participate, too!
Q: Is it difficult to organize a team?
A: No, team participation is easy! All teams are lead by a team captain. Team captains serve as the liaison between the Arthritis Foundation and your team. Team captains receive a "Team Captain Kit" with instructions and materials to ensure success in building a large walk team.
Q: Is my corporation/organization required to make a specific contribution?
A: No! Generally, teams generate a larger contribution by raising funds collectively. Remember that matching gifts can double your fundraising dollars!
Q: How do I sign up for the event?
A: Participants can either contact their local chapter office by calling 1.800.960.7682 for a registration form or register online. Once registered, you will receive all of the necessary tools to get your fund raising efforts started.
Q: How are funds raised through team participation?
A: Each team member is responsible for achieving his or her own fund-raising goal and is encourged to raise at least $100 to earn an Arthritis Walk T-shirt. Participants can raise funds online by setting up their very own personal Web page and asking friends, family and co-workers to donate.
Q: How is the money collected?
A: For donations made online, the Arthritis Foundation receives these funds instantly. All other donations (check or cash) should be turned in to your team captain. Team captains are responsible for turning in their team's funds to the Arthritis Foundation.
Q: How is the money used?
A: Money raised from the Arthritis Walk funds arthritis research, community-based programs and services and advocacy initiatives that help improve the lives of people with arthritis.
Q: How can top management get involved with the Arthritis Walk?
A: Your CEO or senior level management staff can help by issuing an "Arthritis Walk" challenge among employees. Ask them to endorse a memo to all staff requesting their participation and offer a free company T-shirt to generate excitement and gain publicity.
Q: How long is the route?
A: The Arthritis Walk is a non-competitive, fully accessible 5-kilometer (3.1 miles) course with a one-mile option for those who wish to walk a shorter distance.
Q: Why should I participate?
A: Arthritis is the nation's number one cause of disability, affecting 70 million adults and nearly 300,000 children. Your participation is urgently needed to help find a cure. Join the team today and be a leader in the fight against arthritis.
Q: Who should I contact if I require further information?
A: Matt Thayer, Director of Development
Phone: 303-756-8622 ext. 230
Toll Free: 1-800-475-6447
Fax: 303-759-4349
E-mail: mthayer@arthritis.org