The Georgia Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (GCDHH) is excited to have our 2nd annual virtual race of the Follow the Sign 5K that will be taking place during the National Deaf Awareness Week between Monday, September 19th and Sunday, September 25th, 2022.
“Follow the Sign” is a concept created by a team of Deaf and Hard of Hearing members to represent the language and cultural diversity. We are dedicated to raise funds toward the betterment of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing lives. The "Follow the Sign Campaign" raises awareness about the uniqueness of sign language, communication, and accessibility.
The Follow the Sign 5K allows participants the option to walk, run, or hike anytime during the National Deaf Awareness Week! whenever and wherever fits best for them. Even though the race is virtual, knowing that there is an entire community of others participating in the event, is motivation to “Follow the Sign” and have fun!
While participation in the event doesn’t stop with either walking, running, or hiking, GCDHH is also looking for donors that will help us reach our financial goals. We are asking organizations and individuals to help make a difference in our community by contributing to this superb event! Last year we had over 50 individuals from all over the country participating; raising over $8,000 and meeting our 500 miles goal.
This year we are challenging participants to meet our financial goal of $15,000 and fitness goal of 750 miles. With donations, your advertisement will be featured throughout the event and your support will be acknowledged in our monthly newsletters. Additionally, proceeds from the event will go towards the betterment of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing community as GCDHH continues to raise awareness about the uniqueness of sign language, communication, and accessibility throughout the state of Georgia.
Donated funds will be given back to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (D/HH) community supporting low-income consumers, helping them achieve their goals toward better living and independence. Additionally, raised funds will sponsor D/HH children from low-income families to enroll in our Camp Juliena, which is a week-long summer residence where they can engage in various, signed camp activities. For more information about our other extracurricular activities/events or to donate, visit www.gcdhh.org.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Charity Footprints?
Charity Footprints is a social enterprise that connects fitness and charitable giving. We empower people just like you, to get fit & give back.
Our Virtual Races allow non-profits to challenge their patrons to run, walk or ride and raise funds just as they would in a fundraising walkathon. The best part - charities save over 45% in event and logistical costs. So, the dollars that you pay to register or fundraise, go farther.
What is the campaign registration fee?
Campaign registration fee is the amount that you'll need to pay to enroll in this virtual race. This fee (less transaction charges) will go to the non-profit running this campaign as a donation.
The registration fee along with the funds raised through your individual fundraising page will enable the non-profit to fund various programs and pursue their organization's mission.
How can I create my fundraising page?
Well, you wouldn't have to create a separate fundraising page. Once you register for this campaign, we'll give you the link to your fundraising page.
If you workout indoors (treadmill, elliptical, stationary bike etc.), you can upload your workouts here.
How do I join a team on this campaign?
While registering for the campaign, select the team you'd like to join or create a new team and invite others to #GetFitGiveBack with you. If you want to join a team (or create your team) after registration, login to the campaign site and you would find a link to edit "My Team" in the menu under your profile in the header.
I am an international donor (non-US), what are my donation charges and tax-deductibility?
All donations are made in US dollars, so the donations may be levied an exchange rate fee via your bank. Donors will want to connect with their bank to determine exactly what that fee may be. Additionally, international donors will need to reach out to a tax professional to discuss if and how tax deductibility will apply to their donation.
Who can sponsor my fundraising efforts?
The short answer is - everyone. The fundraising research shows that the number one reason for people not donating is that they weren't asked to.
That said, there are things you can do to attract people to sponsor you. Adding a picture to your fundraising page, telling potential donors why this cause is so personal to you, sharing your fundraising page on social media, email, and chat groups.
Last, if your employer has a gift matching program, check with the human resources department to support your favorite cause as well.
Who can I contact if I need help?
You can contact us any time if you need help. We love hearing from our users so please don't hesitate to write to us about issues, suggestions, or to just say hi. You can also contact the non-profit administrator directly if you would like.
How do I change or switch my team?
If you want to join a team (or create your team) after registration, login to the campaign site and you would find a link to edit "My Team" in the menu under your profile in the header.
CAMPAIGN CHAT
Please register for the campaign to see the chat activity. If you're already registered, login here.