REGISTRATION
Q: How do I register to Hike 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 team, 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 Hike to Defeat ALS and fundraise with Team Challenge ALS.
Q: Do I have to fundraise?
A: It is suggested that all participants fundraise a minimum of $250. 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 every step of the way! Don’t hesitate to reach out and we can come up with a fundraising plan together! (Plus, when you raise $150, you will receive our long-sleeve Hike to Defeat ALS shirt - design coming soon!)
Q: What happens if I am not able to raise $250?
A: You have until the end of the year to raise the remaining balance to surpass $250 or whatever your goal might be. A lot of donors are moved to give after seeing photos and hearing about your experience 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 Golden West Chapter of The ALS Association's efforts to discover 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: Yes! We can easily move you onto a team or create your team for you. Just email us at hike@alsagoldenwest.org.
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 their fundraising efforts and the amount that is reflected on their personal fundraising page. A team page is a central location to show how much everyone has raised cumulatively.
Q: I'm already registered for an organized hike, can I still join Team Challenge ALS?
A: Yes! Email hike@alsagoldenwest.org to let us know how you are participating and create your fundraising page by registering today.
EVENT LOGISTICS
Q: Where should I hike?
A: You can hike somewhere local or a place that has always been on your bucket list. The beauty of Hike to Defeat ALS is that you get to choose the location and distance!
Q: When should I hike?
A: We are encouraging everyone to Hike to Defeat ALS in June 2022, which is National Trails Month. It’s a great time of year, when waterfalls are running, and trails are still typically green. However, you can choose to hike whenever is most convenient for you! Please let us know when you plan to hike by emailing hike@alsagoldenwest.org.
Q: How far should I hike?
A: As far as you want. We encourage you to choose a distance that is challenging, but also comfortable. Safety should be your first priority, so please do not choose a long distance without the proper support or training.
Q: Is there anything else I should do while I hike? (i.e. take photos, video, etc.)
A: With a virtual event, we are connecting with our community by sharing photos or videos taken during your hike! Please hike with a buddy and make a plan. Here is a checklist you can use before venturing out on the trail. Hiking during the day? Here's another helpful checklist!
Q: Is there a Hike to Defeat ALS shirt or swag I can get for our hike?
A: Yes! If you raise $150 as a Hike to Defeat ALS participant, you will receive our long-sleeve Hike to Defeat ALS shirt! Design for 2022 will be coming soon - stay tuned!
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 The ALS Association Golden West Chapter's Tax ID?
A: 95-4163338.
Q: How do I turn in donations made by check?
A: Please download the donation form from your personal fundraising page 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 Golden West Chapter
Attn: Hike 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 email hike@alsagoldenwest.org 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 and double your impact. 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 for the Hike to Defeat ALS will never go to waste. We pride ourselves in functioning with a high standard of efficiency. Learm more about where the money goes here.
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 at hike@alsagoldenwest.org 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.
Q: Should I change/update my Personal Page?
A: We know from experience that your personal story 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.
