Change The Lives Of Vulnerable Youth by Hosting an Event
“When I was preparing for my first Vancestock over a decade ago, I knew I wanted to partner with a camp charity. I went to camp as a child and recognized how transformative the camp experience can be.
I was introduced to Trails through a friend, who happened to be on the Board of DIrectors at the time and I was instantly sold. When I reached out, I was impressed by their professionalism and willingness to support my event. 2024 will mark the 13th anniversary of Vancestock and we continue to surpass our fundraising goals.
It’s been a pleasure working with the staff at Trails. It is an absolute honour to be able to support the amazing work that they are doing. Trails is a small but mighty organization that focuses on creating a big impact on a few rather than a small impact for many. Located just outside of Toronto, Trails is a refuge that truly offers its participants the opportunity to reimagine what their futures can be.”
-Vance H. Cooper
Getting Started
Step 1: Define Your Purpose and Goals
Clearly define the purpose of your event. Is it a fundraiser, awareness campaign, community-building, or a combination? Set specific goals for the event, such as the amount of funds you aim to raise, the number of attendees and/or the level of awareness you want to generate.
Step 2: Event Concept and Format
Decide what kind of event you will host. Examples include a performance, sporting event, auction, or workshop. Decide on the event format which includes determining a location, date, time, and duration.
Step 3: Budget Planning
Create a detailed budget that includes all potential expenses (venue, permits, marketing materials, refreshments, entertainment, etc.). In addition, identify your different revenue streams and explore sponsorship opportunities and partnerships to offset costs.
Step 4: Logistics
Research any necessary permits, licenses, or insurance required for your event. This may vary based on your event type and location. Ensure compliance with local regulations and guidelines. Trails will not be liable for any misstep here so make sure you take all the necessary precautions.
Step 5: Event Promotion
Create a compelling message that highlights our cause and the unique aspects of your event. Use that messaging to develop a marketing plan to promote your event. Utilize social media, online event platforms, flyers, local media, and most importantly word of mouth. Trails is happy to help spread the word to our community.
Their Stories
Kimchan
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When I first came to Canada I had nothing. Nothing but my health. I used my physical abilities to propel me forward to a life of financial freedom. I was a marathoner, so I ran everywhere to save on transportation. To make ends meet, I taught aerobics classes and was an assistant coach for many different sports teams. My health gave me the means to support myself in a foreign land.Being an athlete comes with a certain amount of volunteerism and I’ve always been someone who likes to bring people together so running fundraising events seemed almost inevitable. Trails came to me more than a decade ago when I was at breakfast with a client of mine and his friend, who turned out to be one of the founders of Trails. They began talking about this special organization that takes kids from the city and teaches them life’s important lessons through outdoor education.
I decided to run a biking fundraiser for Trails, called Tour de Creemore, and the President of Trails at the time came out to support. It felt right. Soon after, my wife and I were invited to a Trails graduation, where after the 4 year program the participants are recognized for their growth and commitment. We were both incredibly moved by the stories of resilience and understood then the impact of our fundraising. That was it.
Trails is all about the kids and we want to support their mission as long as we can. At that graduation over a decade ago we saw the clear growth in the young people they served. Trails helps build confidence, increase access to education and supports the overall growth of every child in their program.
My goal in life is to take care of people and through my fundraising efforts for Trails I believe I am able to do that in a small way.
Ready to Start?
Running a successful event requires hard work and attention to detail and we are happy to support. Let’s work together to create a lasting impact in the lives of the young people we serve.
If you are interested in running a Community Event to raise funds for Trails, please email amanda@trails.ca to start the conversation!