Fundraising 101 | Trailmixer

Fundraisers

Fundraising 101 for the 2023 Trailmixer Events

Whether you are participating in one, two or all three events, we are super stoked that you have chosen to become part of the Trailmixer community! Your efforts will raise money for the Trailmixer OUTdoor Access Fund (TOAF), which will help dozens of underserved LGBTQ+ youth to participate in programs that will develop their leadership skills and connect them to the outdoors.

These programs will give them tools to develop new skills so they can thrive in their schools, workplaces, and personal lives. They will also give these young adults the knowledge and confidence to be more impactful leaders and to implement innovative social change in their communities.

Outward Bound Adventures first all-LGBGQ+ Cohort in the summer of 2022

Fundraising

The 2023 Trailmixer Events are first and foremost fundraisers. Each hiker is required to raise a minimum of $1,500 if participating in one event, and, if participating in two or three events, the minimum is $3,000 (read below for fundraising tips).

In order to ensure we’re all doing the most we can to support our cause, and that everyone who wants to participate is able to, we’ve set a few minimum fundraising deadlines leading up to each event.

All participants are required to have raised at least $1,500 by the deadlines below. Participants who have not met the minimum required must cover the balance with cash or a credit card by the time time of the trip. Fundraising may continue until September 30, 2023, and participants will get a chance to play catch up. Balance moneys raised by then will be paid back as cash or credited back to the card on file.

Virtual Hiker

Do you want to fundraise without going on our big fundrasing events? You may register as a virtual hiker. Hike locally and raise money for the TOAF while you do it.

Email us at info@trailmixer.org for more info.

Fundraising 101

Speaking of meeting your fundraising goal, it is important that you meet these deadlines. We have worked very hard to secure the permits for each event. By working on your fundraising, you are not only making good on your commitment to Trailmixer and our cause but also respecting your fundraising peers who work hard to raise the money.

So, here are a few steps to get you going:

Step 1

Once registered, you may start fundraising as soon as you receive a link with your personalized fundraising page. Your page will contain basic information that you will be able edit and make it yours by sharing your story, photos, videos and track your fundraising. That page will allow your donors to securely donate on your behalf. Please contact Ulisses at ulisses.guimaraes@trailmixer.org should you have any questions regarding your personal fundraising page.
Raise the bar. We recommend setting your goal above your minimum ($1500 for one event or $3,000 for all three). Many of our hikers find it much easier to exceed the minimum than they expect.
Lead the pack. Make a self-donation to show how invested you are in this journey. Ask others to match it. This proven method really helps get the ball rolling.

Step 2

Make your first ask! Post on social media, email your BFF, your family… everyone! Tell the world what you’re trying to accomplish. People will be blown away by what you’re about to do and want to support you.
We have photos and logos and some graphics available to you to add to emails and social posts. Contact Georgia at georgia.arnold@trailmixer.org and she’ll send you a package.
Inspire your potential donors by showing off your training and preparation progress on social media (don’t forget to add your donation page link). Letting people know you are training hard by getting up at dawn and hiking for hours will show them you are committed to the cause and the challenge.

Step 3

Company matching gifts: Some companies match donations their employees make to nonprofits. It’s a good idea to include a line on your email about matching gifts and including our information:

OUT Hiking for Our Community, Inc. (DBA: Trailmixer)
Address: 1829 La Loma Road
Pasadena, CA 91105-1334
EIN: 83-2965468
Ph# 323 377 4640
Email: info@trailmixer.org
Company matching donations will count towards your fundraising goal.