Our daughter Cecily was diagnosed with Pitt Hopkins Syndrome when she was about 18 months old. It was, admittedly, a very difficult time, as my husband and I slowly adjusted our expectations for her future. We grieved what was lost, but we have since learned to celebrate all that is gained. Cece is one of the brightest lights in our lives, and we are honored to live in the warmth of her light.

Our family has raised nearly $20,000 for the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation since learning of Cecily’s diagnosis. Our most successful fundraiser was called Pizza for Pitt Hopkins. Owners of a local pizzeria generously offered to host a fundraiser in celebration of Cece and donate 20% of all sales to the foundation. We also asked area businesses to donate raffle prizes to boost our fundraising. The whole event was easy, fun, and uplifting.

See “Community comes together to fight Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome”, The Saratogian, Sep 20, 2019

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Here is a five-step approach you can try for a similar event:

1.) Find a restaurant or business to host your event

Start with any personal connections you may have – perhaps your family frequents a favorite spot, or perhaps you know someone who owns a café or manages a bar. Some chain restaurants or entertainment venues also regularly host fundraising events. Expect venues to donate 10-25% of sales. Restaurants may be more likely to host events during their off-season or lightest day of the week. If you cannot secure a business to host your event, consider asking a fire department to host a pancake breakfast or spaghetti dinner.

2.) Solicit raffle prizes

Start a month or so prior to your event. Print information about the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation and the upcoming event, and carry copies everywhere you normally go. Checking into your gym? Ask if they’ll donate a one-month membership. Buying a birthday gift at a toy store? Ask if they’ll donate some merchandise. Meeting a friend out for coffee? Ask if they’ll donate a gift card. Always ask for a manager or owner, as most employees don’t have the authority to make donations. Be kind, confident, and cheerful. Remember – 100% of raffle ticket sales will go to your cause, so be motivated to procure as many donations as you can!

3.) Publicize your event

Create an event page on social media. Be clear about details like timing and whether or not reservations are needed. Announce your event about a month in advance, then blast reminders a week or so ahead of time. Tease the raffle prizes with photos. Be sure to share the event details with every circle or community you’re a part of – friends, family, colleagues, schools, alumni networks, and more. Mail hard copy invitations to relatives and neighbors that don’t use social media. Consider explaining how to make a donation for those who cannot attend but want to contribute.

4.) Party prep

The upfront costs are minimal: buy a roll of raffle tickets and a small cashbox with a lock. Consider some pale blue decorations and details – a dozen balloons or handmade awareness ribbons. Wrap the raffle prizes in clear cellophane and blue ribbons, and put a small jar or paper bag in front of each one to hold raffle tickets. Arrive early to set up the raffle display.

5.) Thank all your supporters

Greet everyone who shows up for the event with enthusiasm and gratitude. Thank everyone who buys raffle tickets. Write glowing reviews on your venue’s Yelp page. Send handwritten notes to all the businesses who made a donation. You will be more likely to receive more donations in the future if your benefactors feel appreciated.

Good luck!

If we can help you organize your own event, please contact phrf-fundraising@pitthopkins.org for more information.