The 872 Squadron will join our friends in other Ottawa Valley Air Cadet Squadrons in this very worthwhile and visible activity. Since it is one of the key annual fundraisers for us, it is a mandatory activity and all cadets are expected to participate. If you cannot, you must see Major Dixon to explain why not, by October 12, 2011.

What is the Walkathon?

The Walkathon is a 10km urban hike from Jacques Cartier Park in Gatineau (on the north side the Alexandra Bridge; turn east off of Rue Laurier) to the National Aviation Museum in Ottawa. Reporting times will be posted to the 872 Squadron website when available. Cadets will receive lunch upon arrival at the Aviation Museum and there are usually draws for prizes. 51 Squadron, which operates from Aviation Museum is the host of this event.

How does the 872 Squadron raise funds through this activity?

In the weeks prior to the Walkathon, cadets receive a  Walk-a-Thon Pledge Sheet that they use to approach friends and family members to sponsor them in the walk. Donations of $10 or more will receive a tax receipt. Please read the pledge sheet carefully and understand how to fill it out before approaching potential sponsors. The money donation is collected when the person makes their pledge, that is, before the Walkathon. This avoids you having to go back to the sponsor a second time to collect their pledged amount.

Who can I ask for a donation?

Family friends and relatives are the first choice. Since you are collecting pledges on your own time ask your parent(s) if it is alright to ask neighbours for donations. Follow your parents rules.

Do I wear my uniform when collecting pledges?

No. Since collection of pledges is not considered a cadet event you are not authorized to wear any part of your uniform. You are able to wear your name tag, but check with your parent or guardian to know what they would prefer.

How do I approach people?

Smile and be friendly. Start by feeling good about doing this important task. Project excitement by talking politely but enthusiastically. Look at the person’s face when you speak. Here is a suggested approach for someone like a friend of the family:

“Good evening Mr./Mrs. ____. I am an Air Cadet with the 872 Squadron and we are holding our annual 10 kilometre Walkathon on October 16. Would you please help support the Air Cadets with a charitable donation to our Squadron?”

If the answer is yes, offer them the pledge sheet (on a clipboard) and a pen and ask them to please fill out a blank line on the pledge sheet. Tell them all donations of $10 and above will receive a tax receipt and to check off the last column if they want one.

If the answer is no, continue to be positive, and say, “Okay, thank you very much for your time. Have a nice day/evening.” Then walk away without saying anything more. Remember you represent the whole Air Cadet movement and your Squadron. Stay happy and positive at all times. A smiling and confident attitude projected directly at a person’s face is always more successful than if you are mumble or look at the ground or the ceiling when you speak.

PRACTICE YOUR APPROACH WITH YOUR PARENTS, IN A MIRROR OR EVEN WITH YOUR PET BEFORE STARTING OUT. REMEMBER TO SMILE BIG WHILE SPEAKING CLEARLY – IT WORKS.

How can far away friends and family sponsor me?

You can point them to our website http://872-squadron-rcac.ca, top right Newsflash or this page, where they can make a pledge and specify your name.

Are there any fundraising targets and prizes?

Yes. As in past years each cadet is asked to work diligently to raise $100 or more. Each cadet that raises $150 or more will receive an individual prize. The top Flight (measured by the Flight’s average $ per cadet raised) will receive a pizza and drinks on an upcoming parade night.

How long do I have to collect Walkathon pledges?

You have from October 6 to October 12 to collect pledges, so start thinking now about who you will ask and work out a plan to reach your fundraising target.

What do we do when we have finished collecting donations?

Bring the completed sheet and all the money collected to parade night on October 12. There will be a table set up to receive the money and to certify it has all been turned in.

Will more information be provided soon?

Yes. Please keep checking the 872 Squadron website for more information. It will be posted as soon as we have received it from the coordinators at 51 Squadron. This information will include reporting times and estimated pick-up times for parents.

Thank you for your participation !!