REGISTRATION
Q: How do I register to run to defeat ALS?
A: You can register online in three ways:
1. Join a Team** -- If you are joining an existing team that a friend started, you can search for your team and register yourself here.
2. Start a Team** -- If you plan to captain a new team and are ready to get the wheels rolling, get started here.
3. Join as an Individual** -- If you are signing up on your own, you can get started here.
Q: Are there costs involved?
A: There are no costs to register for the Run to Defeat ALS and fundraise with Team Challenge ALS. The only costs involved are those associated with the specific event you choose to participate in.
Q: Do I have to fundraise?
A: It is suggested that participants 16 years and older fundraise a minimum of $250 by the day of the event. If you are a first-time fundraiser or are interested in learning more, check out our Fundraising Tips and Tools. Our staff is another resource for you and we will be here for you at every step of the way! Don’t hesitate to reach out and we can come up with a fundraising plan together!
Q: What happens if I am not able to raise $250 by event-day?
A: We have a solution for that! We will give you another six weeks following your event to raise the remaining balance to reach $250. A lot of donors are moved to give after seeing photos and hearing about your experience at our event to make a difference in the lives of people with ALS. Ultimately if you do not reach our suggested minimum we will not penalize you for it, but we appreciate your sincere effort as the funds you raise directly support The ALS Association Golden West Chapter's efforts to find effective treatments and cures for ALS.
Q: My friends might start a team, can I register as an individual now and switch to their team later?
A: Of course! We can easily move you onto a team if you choose. Just email your local Team Challenge ALS Coordinator!
Q: Do I have to join a team?
A: Nope. You can participate as an individual or on a team! Whatever works best for you.
Q: If others on my team raise more than $250 can that count toward my minimum?
A: No. Each individual is responsible for raising the $250 minimum that is reflected on their personal fundraising page.
Q: I'm already registered for a race, can I still join Team Challenge ALS?
A: Yes! Contact your local Team Challenge ALS Coordinator and we'll get you set up with your fundraising page!
EVENT LOGISTICS
**Please visit your event website for specific event details.**FUNDRAISING & FINANCIAL QUESTIONS
Q: What is the deductibility of my donors' contribution?
A: The ALS Association Golden West Chapter is an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Registration fees are not accepted as tax deductible.
Q: What is Team Challenge ALS's Tax ID?
A: We will be using the Tax ID for The ALS Association Golden West Chapter, which is 95-4163338.
Q: How do I turn in donations made by cash or check?
A: Please download the donation form and include it to ensure we give your team full credit for your fundraising efforts. You can mail your donations to the Golden West Chapter office:
The ALS Association
Attn: Run to Defeat ALS
PO Box 7082
Woodland Hills, CA 91365
Q: Is it safe to mail cash?
A: It is NOT safe to mail cash. To turn in cash, please contact your local Team Challenge ALS Coordinator to make arrangements. If you would prefer to convert it to a check to mail to the office, please include the donation form so that we can mail acknowledgement letters to your supporters.
Q: What if my donors need a receipt?
A: All people who make an online donation via our website will receive an email confirmation that can be used for tax purposes. Those who send checks valued $100 or more will receive a thank you letter by mail that can be used for tax purposes. If you have a donor who needs a receipt, please let us know and we will be happy to provide one. Also, if you turn in donations within 2 weeks before or after the event, please let us know if one of those donors needs a receipt.
Q: Do matching gifts count?
A: Employer matching gifts are a great way to double your fundraising. For detailed information about matching gifts, please refer to our Matching Gifts FAQ.
Q: Where does the money go?
A: We work hard to make sure every dollar you donate has maximum impact on the fight against ALS. From patient programs to cutting-edge research, your fundraising efforts will never go to waste. We pride ourselves in functioning with a high standard of efficiency.
YOUR PERSONAL PAGE
Q: What is a Personal Page?
A: Your Personal Page is an online promotional tool to use when asking your friends and family to join your team or make a donation. Once you're registered, a personal page is automatically created for you. You can customize this page with photos and your personal story by logging into your Participant Center. Our staff is here to help you every step of the way.
Q: How do I login to my Personal Page?
A: To login to your personal page, you will enter your username and password into the Participant Center Login Area at the top right of this website. Once you’ve entered your username and password, you will be taken to the homepage of your Participant Center.
Q: What if I forget my username or password?
A: If you do not remember your username that you set up during registration, just contact our staff and they can look it up for you. If you do not remember your password, the link under the login area will help you reset your password – or you can always give us a call!
Q: Do I have to change my Personal Page?
A: You don't have to, but we know from experience that the participant’s personal touch makes the page more compelling to prospective donors. Be creative and have fun with it. Please know we are here to help you do this.
Q: How do I change my personal fundraising goal?
A: Login to your Participant Center. At the top of that page, you'll see your current goal and a link to change it directly below it. Or you can contact us and we can do it for you.
Q: How can I see who has donated on my behalf?
A: Login to your Participant Center. Click the Progress tab at the top of the page, then scroll down to view your donor list. You can also download a list of your supporters from this page.
Q: How can I see who is on my team?
A: Login to your Participant Center, then click on “View Team Roster” from the navigation on the right side of the page.
