Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where does the money go? Sole Support is a fundraiser for Parkinson's Resources of Oregon, a local nonprofit organization that provides direct services to individuals living with Parkinson's disease and their families, offering resources, support, and education. With offices in Beaverton, Bend, and Eugene, you can be confident that funds raised will remain local, providing immediate impact here in Oregon and SW Washington. Learn more about PRO at parkinsonsresources.org.
2. How do I register? Register online at www.solesupport.org. Or, give us a call, and we'll be happy to help! 800.426.6806
3. How do I join a team? Ask your friends or PRO support group leader if they've started a team. If not, suggest one. You're also invited to join any staff team in your region. Hint: You can always register as an individual - no team is required.
4. Can people from out of town join me virtually? Yes! This format enables 100% inclusive involvement, regardless of location.
5. How do I fundraise? The personal approach is most successful with a phone call, email, or even a postcard to friends and family. Social media (Facebook/Instagram) is also very successful. Our staff and walk volunteers are full of ideas to help you increase your impact! Please don't be shy to connect with us. When you succeed, the entire community wins!
6. How do I collect money for fundraising? If your connections are uncomfortable with online donations, we encourage you to send donations directly to PRO. Please include your name so we can properly attribute your efforts. Sending it directly to PRO enables us to provide a prompt thank you and receipt.
CHECK mail to: Parkinson's Resources, 8880 SW Nimbus Avenue, Ste B, Beaverton, OR 97008
CREDIT CARD www.solesupport.org or 800.426.6806
7. How do I raise awareness? Word of mouth, social media, or one of our fun Sole Struck lawn displays!
8. How do I get my t-shirt when I raise $100? At your local Sole Support event or by appointment only at the PRO office. Email solesupport@parkinsonsresources.org or call Jeannine at 800.426.6806 to arrange for pickup.
9. Are the route locations paved or ADA accessible? All routes are paved, offering both short and longer lengths to accommodate varied abilities and stamina.
10. Where do I share my pictures and progress? Facebook and Instagram, please! Be sure to tag Parkinson's Resources of Oregon and Sole Support so they appear in the feed or our followers' feeds. Please follow both our Facebook (Sole Support) and Instagram (@solesupport4pd) pages now, so it's easy to post leading up to and on the day of the event.
11. What hashtags should I use? Hashtags are a great way to raise visibility to the general public. We like to use #Walk4PD #solesupport4PD #solesupport #parkinsonsresources
12. I don't do social media. How else can I participate? Keep taking those photos and videos! You can email solesupport@parkinsonsresources.org, and we will post them on our channels. Please include your name, team, and location so we can add you.
13. I don't know how to start. How can I get help? Below are some ideas of how we can help you exceed your Sole Support goals! PRO's friendly staff can help you register and assist your team, as well as offer fundraising tips. Just call us at 800.426.6806 or email jeannine@parkinsonsresources.org
Quick Fundraising ideas
- Social media is a HUGELY successful tool for fundraising in this format, but it can be confusing. Facebook fundraisers are quick and easy with just one simple click from your friends, plus Facebook covers all processing fees! We provided tutorials for utilizing both Facebook and Instagram in the Resources area. We are also happy to assist you over the phone with these platforms.
- Personalized postcards and letters are very successful for Sole Support fundraising. We are happy to work with you on crafting these and even mailing them on your behalf. Please know that the information about your contacts is always protected.
- Emails from your Sole Support fundraising page allow you to personalize your message and tell your connection to Parkinson's. A link to your page is automatically included, making it easy for your friends to donate. We can help you with this.