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Event FAQ - Registration FAQ - Fundraising & Donations FAQ - Website FAQ - Team FAQ - MS FAQ
1. What is the Challenge Walk?
The Challenge Walk is a three-day, 50-mile walk held on September 11-13, 2009, to create a world free of MS. Starting in Carlsbad, California, approximately 350 Walkers will enjoy ocean views while walking to downtown San Diego. The route is fully supported with rest stops, lunches, snacks, beverages and medical staff. All participants spend two nights at our host hotel and are treated to banquet breakfasts and dinners. Our goal is to raise $1.2 million towards a world free of MS. For more information please contact Jennifer West at (760) 448-8435.
2. How far do we walk?
The Challenge Walk is a three-day, 50-mile walk. Day One: 20 miles from Carlsbad to Del Mar. Day Two: 20 miles from Del Mar to Ventura Cove. Day Three: 10 miles from Ventura Cove to downtown San Diego. If a Walker is unable to complete a portion of the route, Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles provide transportation assistance all three days.
3. Do I have to carry all my gear while I am walking?
No. We will transport your luggage from the start line to the hotel, and to the finish line on Day Three. You simply drop your gear off at the luggage truck in the morning, before you begin your walk for the day, and we will take care of the rest. Each morning you can drop your SWAG bag off at the luggage truck and we will have it waiting for you at the lunch stop. You can put items in your bag that you may want on your break.
4. Is the Challenge Walk route fully accessible?
Our route is fully accessible along city streets so people of all mobility levels can participate in the event. Additionally, we provide a vehicle capable of transporting a wheelchair as well as SAG vehicles along the route for participants who may need extra help. Because some roads could be difficult to navigate, we recommend all participants who have special needs create a route plan with Chapter staff prior to the event for everyone's safety.
5. How can I participate?
Registration is simply a click away! You can bring us closer to a cure by walking, volunteering or becoming a Super Crew or Crew member.
- Walker: $65 Registration Fee. Participate in all aspects of the event and raise the $2,500 pledge minimum (with our support). Walkers between the ages of 12 and 16 have a fundraising minimum of $1,500.
- Super Crew: $65 Registration Fee. Volunteer all three days of the event and raise $2,500 or more. Hotel accommodations and banquet meals are included.
- Crew: $65 Registration Fee. Volunteer all three days of the event. Banquet meals included; discounted rate on hotel accommodations available. (Only 50 Crew positions available).
- Volunteer: $0. Be a part of the event by volunteering for a 3-5 hour shift.
- Sponsorship: It takes a special company to sponsor such a meaningful event. There are numerous sponsorship opportunities available that can be customized to fit any company's needs. For more information, please contact Jennifer West at (760) 448-8435.
Note: All registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
6. Who can participate?
Everyone! Participants must be 12 years or older to participate. All Walkers, Crew and Super Crew members between the ages of 12 and 17 must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian at all times. Participants and volunteers must have valid medical health insurance to participate.
7. Where do I sleep?
Challenge Walk has overnight hotel accommodations. Each room hosts a minimum of two guests and a maximum of four. Two guests will be automatically assigned unless otherwise requested.
The Challenge Walk host hotel is the Marriott in Del Mar. Participants will stay at the Marriott or a nearby hotel on Friday and Saturday night. Hotel placement will be dependent on timely submission of participants confirmation packets and fundraising status. Confirmation packets will be available July 2009 via email.
If you need hotel accommodations on Thursday and/or Sunday night, please indicate this on your confirmation packet. We will submit a rooming list to the hotel so that you can occupy the same room your entire stay. There will be $119 per night (plus tax) charges to your credit card if you choose to say an additional night(s) for Thursday and/or Sunday.
8. What kind of support does the National MS Society offer to Walkers?
We are here to support you every step of the way. This includes pre-event issues such as building a team and helping you with fundraising and training. During the event we provide accommodations, all meals, full route support and more enthusiasm than you can imagine! There are also numerous online resources for participants available on this website.
Once you make the commitment and register for the Challenge Walk, a fundraising Walker Coach will be assigned to you. Your Walker Coach is there to help you reach your fundraising minimum of $2,500 by creating a customized fundraising plan that fits you. Your Walker Coach can also answer any questions you have about the event including event weekend details.
9. Can my family come and see me during the event?
Invite your friends, family, neighbors and dogs! Everyone is welcome to our start and finish lines, we would love their support! To ensure the safety of the participants, we do not encourage spectators along the route.
Start Line
Flower Fields, Carlsbad, CA
5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008
7:30AM: Opening Ceremony
Guest parking available on-site at Armstrong Gardens.
Finish Line
Pantoja Park, San Diego, CA
Located on G Street between State and Kettner Boulevard.
11:30AM: Welcome Participants across the finish line, Closing Ceremony, Lunch
Guest parking information: There is free street parking on Sundays and various paid parking lots.
Visit Maps and Directions for more information.
10. What if I end up being unable to participate in the Challenge Walk?
All donations made to the National MS Society are non-refundable and non-transferable. The donations will be used in the spirit the donor intended; they will be used to support programs, services and MS research.
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1. How do I request an informational packet about the Challenge Walk?
If you can't find the information you are looking for on this website, please call us at (800) 486-6762 or email Jennifer West, and we will mail an information packet to you.
2. Before You Register: Important Things You Need to Know
- All participants agree to raise $2,500 ($1,500 for Walkers ages 12-16) old by the fundraising deadline of August 26, 2009.
- Each Walker (whether you are on a team or not) is responsible for her or his own fundraising commitment.
- The registration fee and all donations are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- All participants must have medical insurance at the time of the event to participate.
- To register for Challenge Walk MS, all Walkers must be 12 years old or older by event weekend. Walkers under 18 years old need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is also registered for the event. Additionally, a notarized waiver will be required for all minors.
3. How do I register for the Challenge Walk?
Simply visit our home page, click on "Register Here" and complete the online form. You will receive a confirmation email once the registration is processed. If you don't wish to register online, please call us at (800) 486-6762, and we will register you over the phone.
4. What is an "Explore the Challenge" (ETC) get-together?
Learn how you can make a difference in the fight against MS by attending a free Explore the Challenge get-together. We invite you to join us for a meet & greet that will inspire you to take the Challenge. Meet with past Walkers and learn all about the event. This is a free, no obligation event.
5. What is a confirmation and what if I have not received it?
The confirmation provides necessary information for the weekend, such as your hotel, diet and medical needs. It also confirms you are committed to Challenge Walk MS, so we can plan accordingly to keep costs to a minimum. Please be timely with your submission of confirmation and credit card information.
If you have not received a confirmation in July 2009 or have questions, please call (800) 486-6762.
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| FUNDRAISING & DONATIONS FAQ |
1. What is the fundraising commitment?
All Walkers and Super Crew members are required to raise $2,500 ($1,500 for Walkers 12-16 years old). To honor the commitment of Walkers, and preserve the Chapter's financial integrity, no one will be permitted to walk who has not raised the minimum pledge prior to the fundraising deadline of August 26, 2009.
2. What if I don't raise the $2,500 pledge minimum?
It is not surprising that you may be a little intimidated by the thought of raising $2,500, but with our support you can reach this goal! Thousands of Walkers have succeeded in raising much more than their initial pledge goal. You can too!
If you should find yourself below the minimum pledge amount when the deadline rolls around, you have three (3) options:
- Self-pledge the remaining dollars to ensure your place as a Walker.
- Choose not to walk, but be happy knowing that donations go towards a great cause.
- Choose not to walk, but volunteer for a 3-5 hour shift during the event.
Please note: All participants must have reached their fundraising minimum by the fundraising deadline, August 26, 2009. All donations are non-transferable and non-refundable. Participants who have registered as a Walker and who have not raised their minimum fundraising pledge may not transfer their participation status to Crew.
3. Where will my donation go?
The donations from the Challenge Walk funds research to find a cure. It is also used to support local programs and support services to help people and families living with MS. Seventy-eight cents of every dollar raised goes directly to the National MS Society programs, services, education and research, with only 22 cents used for fundraising and administrative costs.
4. What is the fundraising commitment?
All Walkers and Super Crew members are required to raise $2,500 ($1,500 for Walkers 12-16 years old). To honor the participants' commitments, and preserve the Chapter's financial integrity, no one will be permitted to walk who has not raised the minimum pledge prior to the fundraising deadline of August 26, 2009.
5. What is the deadline for meeting the $2,500 pledge minimum?
The fundraising deadline is August 26, 2009.
6. Does my $65 registration fee go towards my fundraising?
No. Your registration fee helps cover administration costs and does not apply towards your fundraising minimum of $2,500, and is not tax-deductible.
7. I am mailing in donations. What do I need to do before I seal the envelope?
- Please make all checks payable to the National MS Society.
- Record the name, address, and donation amount of all donors before sending the donations. By recording this information, you will be able to track your "balance" listed on your webpage against donations that you received to verify everything is correct.
- Write the participant's name and Challenge Walk MS on the memo line of the check.
8. Where do I mail my donations?
Label each check with the Walker's name and Challenge Walk MS. (We have several events that overlap and we want to be sure to post the donation accurately.)
Do not send cash. Send all donations to:
National MS Society
Pacific South Coast Chapter
ATTN: Challenge Headquarters
5950 La Place Court, Suite 200
Carlsbad, CA 92008
9. How long does it take for mailed donations to appear on my webpage?
They can take up to two weeks for the donation to post to your account. Please note that the "real time" standings and contributions listed on this site, and the individuals and team fundraising totals reflect only the information that has been entered in the online fundraising system, Convio.
If you are concerned that a donation did not reach the Society, please contact Merri Hulet at (760) 448-8419. We encourage all participants to keep a record of their donations to verify every donation is posted correctly.
10. One of my donors is requesting an EIN number, Tax ID number, or a 501(c) 3 letter. How can I get these?
The National MS Society's EIN and Tax ID number is 95-2633200. A 501(c) 3 letter is a document provided by the IRS confirming our nonprofit status. For a copy, please contact Jennifer West at (760) 448-8435.
11. Do all of my donors receive a receipt?
Only those donors giving $250 or more will receive an automatic acknowledgement from the National MS Society. Any donor who writes a check may use his or her canceled check as a receipt or you can provide a donor receipt.
12. Are all donations tax deductible?
Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law.
13. What are matching gifts and how do I know if I am eligible to receive them?
Many employers have programs that contribute or "match" donations made to nonprofit organizations. The donor should check with his/her human resources (HR) department to confirm if a matching gift program is offered. Please note: For the matching gifts to count towards your minimum pledge, matching gift forms must be received prior to the fundraising deadline, August 26, 2009. Please contact Merri Hulet at (760) 448-8419 for questions regarding matching gifts.
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1. Who or what is Convio?
Convio is a marketing infrastructure service provider offering advanced internet fundraising solutions to charitable, educational, and political organizations. Through the website you can register for the event, create your own personal fundraising webpage and collect donations from family and friends. Please contact us at (800) 486-6762 if you have any technical questions.
2. How do I change or delete my donors' information on the "Honor Roll"?
Please contact us at (800) 486-6762 to have the information changed or removed.
3. I am having trouble with my Online Account. Who should I call?
Please contact us at (800) 486-6762.
4. Is my information secure?
Yes. Convio has made every effort to protect your information. Industry-standard SSL encryption techniques are used to make sure that your credit card information, passwords and personal information travel securely over the internet.
5. I forgot my Username and Password.
Remember that your username and password are case sensitive. Click here to find your password. You will receive an e-mail with your username and password. If you still have problems, please contact us at mschallenge@mspacific.org.
6. How do I change my Username and/or Password?
First, login to the site using your username and password. Once logged in you will see a link at the top of the page called "Update My Profile." Once in your profile, you will be able to change your contact information, e-mail address, username and password. All changes will be made to your account immediately. There is no need to sign in again.
7. What is a Personal Page?
A personal page is an online promotional tool for your use when asking your friends and family to join your team or sponsor you by making a donation. Once you sign up for an event online, by default, you will have a personal page created for you. You have the option of personalizing this page by going to your Walk Center. You will be able to customize images, text and the style/color layout of the page.
8. By default I have a personal page, do I have to change it?
Once you sign up for an event online, by default, you will have a personal page created for you. A compelling personal page attracts and engages supporters. While you can spread the word using customized e-mail solicitations, your personal campaign page can be your own creative expression of your commitment to the cause. Customize your page by selecting the layout and style that work best for you. Utilize the elements of text, photo and status indicators to their fullest advantage.
9. How do I change my personal fundraising goal?
First, you will need to login to your Walk Center. On the bottom right side of the Walk Center home page is the location to modify your personal fundraising goal. Enter your new goal and submit the changes.
10. How do I change my team name, team division or team goal?
Only the team captain has the ability to change the team name or team division. The team captain will need to login to his/her walk center and click the "My Team Progress" button on the top right. On the Team Progress page, team captains will have the ability to update the team name, division and goal.
11. How can I see who has donated to me?
Login to the site using your Username and Password. Go to your Walk Center and click the "My Progress" tab; this will allow you to view your donor list and any amounts having been donated.
12. How can I see who is on my team?
Login to the site using your Username and Password. Go to your Walk Center and click the "Team Progress" tab; this will allow you to view your team roster and the amounts raised by each team member.
13. What is a team message?
Simply go to your Walk Center and click the "Update Message to Team" button. This will allow you to make all necessary changes to your team message.
14. What is the difference between making my personal page private or public?
By default, a personal page is Public, meaning your name will appear in the participant search list, and anyone accessing the site will be able to support you. Setting your personal page to Private means your name will not appear in the participant search list, and only people you personally invite will be able to support you.
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1. Can I participate with my friends or family?
Of course! All you need is two or more people and you have an official team! There is no better way to enjoy the experience of Challenge Walk MS than with a team of family and friends! Each individual Walker is responsible for raising at least $2,500.
The Challenge Walk is a great teambuilding opportunity for companies. Employers and employees can work hand-in-hand for a worthy cause in addition to building camaraderie and having a great support system to train, fundraise and keep motivated. If you are interested in forming a team, please contact Jenny Dittmore at (800) 486-6762.
2. How do I join or form a team?
If you haven't registered yet, simply register online and select "Join a Team" or "Form a Team." Search for the name of the team you would like to join, or simply call us and we will partner you with a suitable team. If you have already registered for the Challenge Walk MS and would like to join a team, call Jenny Dittmore at (800) 486-6762.
3. Can team members share or split donations?
Each team member is responsible for raising the fundraising minimum of $2,500 ($1,500 for Walkers 12-16 years old). The purpose of a team is to provide support to reach fundraising goals and also build camaraderie.
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1. What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information between the brain and the body and it stops people from moving. Every hour in the United States, someone is newly diagnosed with MS, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with more than twice as many women as men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects more than 400,000 people in the U.S., and 2.5 million worldwide.
2. What is the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's mission?
MS stops people from moving. The National MS Society exists to make sure it doesn’t. We help each person address the challenges of living with MS. Last year alone, we devoted over $136 million to programs that enhanced more than one million lives. The Society also invested over $50 million to support 440 research projects around the world. We are people who want to do something about MS NOW. For more information about multiple sclerosis and the National MS Society, please visit http://www.nationalmssociety.org/
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