You Haven't Asked Everyone (Yet)
The race is a little over two months away, and prime fundraising season, August and September, is sitting right in front of you.
The team is having a strong year, and there's real momentum to build on. But if you're one of the Heroes who's already worked your list and you're starting to think, “I've asked everyone I know,” this one's for you.
Here's the good news: you almost certainly haven't. Most runners tap their closest circle, hit a natural pause, and assume the well is dry. It isn't. You just need a fresh way to look at it, and a comfortable way to go back to people you've already talked to.
Think in Groups, Not Names
When you try to brainstorm “who else can I ask?” one name at a time, you run out fast. Instead, go back to the group exercise from 8 Steps to Charity Running Success and think in circles, not individuals.
Ask yourself who belongs to each of these:
The people you do business with: your dentist, hairstylist, mechanic, realtor, financial advisor. You support them all year.
Everyday groups: neighbors, your gym or run club, faith community, book club, other parents from your kids' activities.
Your past: former coworkers, college or high school friends, alumni networks.
Your household's reach: your spouse's, partner's, or family members' networks, not just your own.
Work, beyond the obvious: a team collection, a post in a company channel, or even asking whether your employer will match a gift. Many will, and most people never think to check.
The “warm but quiet” crowd: everyone who liked or commented on your posts but hasn't given yet.
You don't have to be close with someone to invite them in. As we always say: never say no for someone. You never know who Mercy Home's mission will resonate with.
It's an Update, Not a Repeat
Going back to people you've already contacted feels awkward, until you reframe it. You're not re-asking, you're updating them, and an update is a welcome reason to reach out again.
Two groups worth revisiting:
People who already gave. Thank them again, share how far you've come, and don't be afraid to invite a second gift or simply ask them to share your page. Donors who feel connected to your journey often give twice.
People who never responded. Assume the best. Their message got buried, life got busy, not that they said no. A friendly follow-up isn't nagging, and most gifts come after more than one touch.
A few things that make the re-ask land:
Give a reason to reconnect: a milestone, “we're two months out,” halfway to your goal, or a matching-gift window.
Change the channel. If your first ask was an email that went unanswered, try a text or a quick call this time.
Keep it easy. Restate your fundraising link, suggest an amount, and keep it short.
Just Getting Started?
If you're reading this and you haven't made your first asks yet, that's okay, and you're not behind for long. Start with the fundamentals: 8 Steps to Charity Running Success lays out the whole strategy, and our Building Confidence tips will help if making the ask feels intimidating. Pick one step and take it today.
We're Here to Help
However far along you are, you don't have to figure this out alone. Not sure where to find more prospects, or how to word that follow-up? A coaching call is the fastest way to get 1:1 advice, click here to find a time to connect. And don't forget, our fundraising incentives and milestones are there to keep you moving.
You've come further than you think, and there are more people in your corner than you've asked. Two months is plenty of time to finish strong.
Heroes don't stop at “everyone I know.”
