PUBLISHED 06/03/2008
Many runners participate in the races for other reasons besides supporting your charity. If they're supporting a good cause in the process, great, but that's usually not the main reason most runners will fork over the entry fee. So why affiliate with a charity?
1. A charity event can create a positive public image for your race. It is more likely to receive media coverage and can more easily attract sponsorship.
2. If you affiliate with a 501(c)3 organization, you can save postage costs on your mailings by taking advantage of a not-for-profit bulk rate, you may qualify for permit fee discounts from your local government, and you may qualify for a tax exemption.
3. Area officials may be more willing to relax the rules for a worthy charity.
4. Charities usually have a supply of willing volunteers that may be available to you for race day.
5. Charities usually have supporters who are willing to provide products and services at a significant discount.
