How to Create a Fundraiser for the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America

If you’re passionate about supporting the MGFA, organizing a local fundraiser is a great way to raise awareness and generate funds for research, patient support, and advocacy. Whether you’re working with local businesses or planning an event on your own, this guide will help you get started.

First, decide what type of fundraiser you would like to host. You can start with one of the ideas mentioned below or come up with your own unique way to raise funds.

Let the MGFA know your plans so we can amplify your message and properly thank you (and your donors!) for the support. We can provide tools, such as a custom fundraising page, to make it easier for you to share your message and collect donations.

Partner with Local Businesses

Many business owners are eager to support causes that are important to their customers. A fundraising night is an easy way to make a difference and raise awareness about MG.

• Local Venue
  Your favorite bar, brewery, coffee shop, restaurant, bakery, or ice cream parlor can host a “Dine for a Cause” or “Drinks for Myasthenia Gravis Awareness” night. Customers enjoy a night out, and the venue donates a portion of proceeds to the MGFA. Some businesses will even create a custom drink or dish just for you. If you own a local business, this is a great way to give back and receive a tax benefit for your company.
  
• Chain Restaurant
  Many national restaurant chains have established community fundraising programs. Stores like Chipotle, Panda Express, Texas Roadhouse, Peter Piper Pizza, Jeni’s Ice Cream, and others will donate a percentage of sales on a single night to the MGFA when customers mention the fundraiser. Apply through the restaurant’s website or call your local store.

Encourage everyone in your network to stop by the restaurant on your chosen day!

Put the FUN in Fundraising

Organize your own creative fundraiser and invite your friends, family, and colleagues to have fun while raising money for a great cause. MGFA is happy to promote your fundraiser to the MG Community in your area.

• Golf Tournament
  Even casual golfers can enjoy a day on the links. Generally, tournament organizers charge a registration fee, with the proceeds benefiting the MGFA. You can also source donated items or services for a silent auction to take your fundraising to the next level. Connect with us to find out about donation receipting and more.
  
• Sell Products? Donate a Portion of Sales
  If you own a business or make a product, you can easily give back to the MGFA. Donate a portion of sales during a specific time period, like MG Awareness Month, or create a special “MG Awareness” product.

• Run, walk, or bike for the MGFA
  Choose “Team MGFA” if you’re running a marathon or competing in a physical fitness challenge like an Ironman or bike race. This is a great way for the friends and family of MG patients to fundraise, although individuals with MG have run marathons, too! We’ll provide resources to help promote your fundraiser.

Spread the Word

Whatever fundraiser you choose, promotion is key to a successful event. You can spread the word in several ways:

• Email, text, and word of mouth: Let your friends and family know! The MGFA is happy to partner with you to share information with MG community members in your area.

• Social media: Create an event page on Facebook or Instagram. Post regular updates and encourage your supporters to share the event. Share in local community groups on Nextdoor and Facebook. Be sure to let your family and friends know why the MGFA is important to you. Tag the MGFA so we can amplify your efforts. If you’re working with a local business, ask them to share the event on their channels, too.

• Flyers: Post flyers in community and senior centers, coffee shops, gyms, and other high-traffic areas.

How to Manage a Successful Fundraiser

Managing your donations appropriately is extremely important. If you’d like to hold a restaurant fundraiser, you may need to partner with the MGFA to receive the proceeds of the event directly. Many restaurants with established charity night programs will only send donations to 501(c)3 nonprofits directly to prevent fraud.

If you are running a silent auction or hosting a “pass the pot” night for the MGFA and accepting cash, money transfer apps, or checks, be sure to keep detailed records of gifts. MGFA can provide tax receipts for charitable gifts if you keep a record of the donor’s name and address along with the amount of the gift.

To make this process easier, set up an online fundraising page with the MGFA. You can easily accept gifts and track how much you’ve raised, and your donors will automatically receive a thank you and tax receipt from the MGFA.

Once your fundraiser is over, make sure to thank everyone who contributed or attended. Send thank you notes or emails, give shout-outs on social media, and publicly acknowledge any businesses that supported the fundraiser. This not only shows appreciation but also encourages future involvement. Every donor who makes a gift directly to the MGFA will receive a thank you letter from us, too.

With a bit of planning and community engagement, you can make a big difference for the MG Community. Whether it’s hosting a restaurant fundraiser or running 26 miles for Team MGFA, your efforts will raise awareness and provide critical support to those living with MG.

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