Community
A Decade’s Worth of
Team Fox Fundraising Tips
by KAT McCARRICK
When The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) opened its doors, go-getters worldwide —
people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their loved ones — felt inspired to raise critical
research funds and awareness in their communities. Enter Team Fox, MJFF's official
grassroots fundraising arm. Here, some of the original members, who have been peer-to-
peer fundraising for over a decade, share time-tested tips for success:
The personal touch — keep your
personal story in the forefront. As a
business owner, build a reputation as a
Parkinson’s advocate. Encourage clients,
other business owners, friends and
family to get involved.
—Josie Poehlmann, Tom Poehlmann Benefit
Years Fundraising: 16
I’ve been doing this for all these years in memory
of my dear Mom because I am passionate
about the cause, Team Fox, MJFF and the PD
community. All of that translates to the way you
approach your event — with passion!
We aligned with two other
families who also had a parent
with PD and knew tons of
people in town. They helped
us reach new donors, increase
fundraising and divvy up the
responsibilities based on each of
our strengths and interests.
—Amy Epstein, Team ESB
Pancakes for Parkinson’s
Years Fundraising: 11
You can’t say ‘thank you’
enough! We made every
effort to promote and thank
our sponsors on table tents,
banners, a scrolling video with
logos and mentions during
the program. Recognize repeat
donors with a plaque or gift.
—Gail Oliver, The Mrs. Mo
Years Fundraising: 15
People are very generous around the holidays. A
reminder that you are actively running/training
for charity marathons will help with year-
end donations. Many employers have a match
program, which can really boost donations.
—Bridget Bell, P.A.R. for Parkinson’s
Years Fundraising: 10
—David Sack, Runner
Years Fundraising: 13
Want more? Team Fox fundraising pro Sue Bilotta offers tips to boost
year-end fundraising at michaeljfox.org/TeamFoxTenYears.
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The Fox Focus