Tag Archives: summer fundraising

3-Day Summer Training Tips

Training for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® might not be the first thing on your to-do list this summer, but if you’re gearing up to take on the challenge, the warmer months are a great time to build up your stamina and spirit. Walking up to 60 miles over three days is no small feat, and neither is training in the summer heat. 

To help you walk strongly and safely, we’ve rounded up some smart, simple tips. 

  • Don’t underestimate the sun’s rays (especially on cloudy days). Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every time you train and reapply when needed. Don’t forget to cover your ears, lips and any exposed parts of your scalp (better yet, cover your head with a hat). Sunglasses can be helpful, too.  
  • Even if you don’t feel thirsty, drink LOTS of water and rotate in a sports drink for electrolytes while you train. Drink more fluids than usual and start hydrating the day before you plan to train. 
  • When you’re on a walk this summer, dress in moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics like bamboo fiber, spandex or nylon. These materials help regulate your body temperature and reduce chafing. If you can, wear light-colored clothing to help you stay cool.
  • Walking during early morning or late evenings is cooler and gentler on your skin. Look for shady parks and tree-lined trails to walk instead of blacktops or sunny sidewalks. If you can’t find any shade, bring a UV umbrella on your walk.
  • Listen to your body and its’ warning signs while training. If you start to feel dizzy or nauseous, or if you get a headache, stop walking and get to a cooler area to rest.
  • When you’re out training, always remain alert and be aware of your surroundings. Try not to walk alone, but if you must, tell a family member or friend where you’ll be walking and make sure your cell phone is fully charged. 

With the right mind-set and preparation, training in the summer can be manageable and fun! Stay focused and cool, and remember, every step you take during the 3-Day season brings us closer to a world without breast cancer. 

Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment. 

Hot Take: Fundraising Friday Ideas for Summertime

Summer Fridays are full of sun, fun, and now…3-Day fundraising, too! As our 2019 3-Days get closer and closer, the weekends are perfect to make the most of your time and do some serious 3-Day fundraising. To get you started, we have simple ideas that are perfect for this summer season of fun and will also make a big difference in achieving your fundraising goals!

Facebook Live Your Training Walk

Now that you can connect your fundraising page to a Facebook Fundraiser and raise money through your profile, it’s time to make the most of this social media platform. Once you have set up your Facebook fundraising link on your profile, do a live training walk where you broadcast the start or finish of your walk. Stretch or show your planned route while you talk about why you’re walking and what the 3-Day means to you. Then direct people back to your page to donate!

Do a Summer Fundraising Challenge

Summer just started, so you have plenty of time to start a fundraising challenge. Give yourself a goal for the next week or month of summer, then promote the heck out of it! On social media, in your email signature, with signs in your front yard, at your cubicle at work, with a poster in your car window. No place is a bad place to promote the 3-Day and let people know how they can help you reach your summer fundraising goal.

You can also participate in our fundraising challenge, going on right now! From now to July 8, all dollars raised through the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® will directly fund the national Komen Treatment Assistance Program. Too many women and men don’t get the breast cancer treatment they need because of financial hardship. That’s where the Treatment Assistance Program comes in. It helps those facing financial challenges by providing limited financial assistance, education and support to eligible low-income, under-insured people undergoing treatment for breast cancer. We have already raised over $250,000 for the national Komen Treatment Assistance Program in just a few days of fundraising!

Charity Chores

This one is a no brainer all year long, but especially so in summer. There are so many outdoor chores to be taken advantage of during the warmer months, and all you have to do is volunteer your time. Put the word out in your neighborhood and community that you will do household and yard chores for free, but that you would love and encourage donations to your 3-Day goal instead.

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Football Tournament

Football season is coming up in the Fall! But if you have friends and family who just can’t wait for pre-season to start, take advantage of their fandom! Arrange a weekend football game (or tournament!) and encourage players to donate to the 3-Day. Whoever is the winning team will have their names featured on one of your outfits on the 3-Day so you can keep that team spirit going!

Ice Cream Social or BBQ Contest

The summer is all about eating outside, and that means its barbecue and ice cream season. Let’s make the most of it! Ask a local restaurant or grocery store to donate supplies and host an outdoor party for all your friends and family. Ask for donations, and use this as a team building opportunity to recruit people to join you on the 3-Day.

Dance-Off in the Park

There is so much dancing on the 3-Day, and there should be more dancing in our everyday life! Have all your 3-Day teammates get together, bringing their friends and family to the park for a big pink dance party in the sunshine. Have people send you their favorite dancing tunes, which will make for one great training playlist. Then, encourage all your dancers to donate to your 3-Day cause.

What are your summer fundraising ideas? Tell us in the comments!