Fundraising
Funds raised from the DaVita KAT Walks Across America™ go to benefit programs of The Kidney TRUST™, an independent 501(c)3 public charity founded by DaVita, Inc. in 2006. Two specific programs of the TRUST will benefit from the KAT Walks: the provision of cost-effective rapid screening for kidney disease; and financial assistance to people affected by CKD.
The goal of the TRUST’s rapid-testing program is to identify individuals who have signs of kidney impairment. Along with receiving on-site screening results, participants receive materials that offer education about CKD and its prevention, encouraging them to seek medical follow-up as appropriate. This innovative public screening program is carried out in non-medical settings such as large employer workplaces and community health fairs. Through partnerships with employers and community organizations, this screening program is being made available around the United States.
In addition, the TRUST is piloting a financial assistance program for dialysis patients who are privately insured and who face financial challenges in meeting drug and treatment co-pays, deductibles and co-insurance costs.
Fundraising is totally up to you. We encourage you to try fundraising. The personal gratification is one of fulfillment, gratitude and pride!
If you have never raised money before (or even if you have), it is probably a little frightening. Rest assured, most people feel the same way! The good news is that there are many different ways to fundraise. Check out this list of more than 120 ideas. Listed below are just a few things to keep in mind.
How about you? What will your fundraising goal be if you choose to go beyond the $15 registration fee? Will it be by raising $50, $100, $250 or more? You set the limits, but trust us fundraising successes can be addictive!
It is not for you. Remember, you are not asking people to fund your next car payment or Hawaiian vacation. You are asking for money to help provide services to people living with or most at risk for CKD.
Know your stuff. Be informed about why you are doing this. Memorize a few key facts about The Kidney TRUST, and some of the work they do, and make yourself familiar with the current state of CKD, particularly in your community. Maybe carry around a little card with notes. More information can be found in our website and at www.kidneytrust.org site. There many reasons (especially the ones that are very personal to you) to support The KAT Walks and you should share them with your donors.
Be prepared. Always carry your Walk donation forms, pledge letters, and pre-addressed envelopes. Always. Because ...
You never know. A donation could come from anyone, anywhere, anytime. So...ask, ask, ask!
The magic words. Of course you will say please when asking for donations, but do not forget to thank your donors too. Send them a simple note, a photo of you wearing your Walk t-shirt. Make your donors a part of your KAT Walk experience, and they will feel even better about contributing.
Donate on Behalf of a Walker or make a general donation.
Your gift to The Kidney TRUST is very much appreciated!