First Baptist Church's Spring Step Challenge seeks to get congregants up and moving in order to raise support for our newest neighbors here in Richmond. According to U.S. News & World Report, Virginia is the state that has welcomed the largest number of immigrants and refugees from Afghanistan relative to state population. While the U.S. has taken in refugees for many years, there has been a large increase in immigrants from Afghanistan in recent months due to the political instability that was created as the Taliban overtook cities after the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the country. According to an article in the Richmond Times Dispatch, about 75% of refugees entering Virginia since 2016 have come from Afghanistan. Anybody who has moved from one place to another knows how difficult it can be to establish roots in a new place and begin to feel like you belong there. For our refugee neighbors, it is much more than a simple move from one place to another - these neighbors have had to completely uproot and move across the globe in order to settle in an area where they may not be familiar with the language, customs, and culture. Fortunately, Virginians have rallied together to welcome our new neighbors, and ReEstablish Richmond is one group in particular that has been making a concerted effort to support immigrants as they transition to life in our state. Currently, the team of dedicated staff and volunteers at ReEstablish Richmond focuses on transportation independence, healthand wellness, community engagement, and economic empowerment. Keeping in line with our commitment as Christians to love others and bring the kingdom of heaven to RVA, Richmond's First Baptist Church seeks to raise $2500 to be donated to ReEstablish Richmond in order to support the good work they do for immigrants in our city.
We encourage individuals, families, and Sunday School classes to register and get involved in our Spring Step Challenge! Registration is $25 per person, and individuals and groups have the option to fundraise more money to be donated to ReEstablish Richmond by advertising their walking/running goals on social media. The campaign will be ongoing for six weeks, and you are encouraged to compete throughout the duration of the campaign. The goal we have for this campaign is for each individual to walk at least one mile/2,000 steps per day. Overall, we hope to collectively walk over 7,000 miles, which is the approximate distance (as the crow flies) from Virginia to Afghanistan. Prizes will be awarded to the individuals/teams who raise the most money and walk/jog the highest number of steps/miles.
Questions about this campaign should be directed to Lee Byerly (byerly@fbcrichmond.org).
Track workouts anywhere & anytime and complete goal.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
FBC
Our people come from various cultural, ethnic, economic and religious backgrounds, and yet we work together to put
God’s love into action. Some of our members have a lifetime of faith experiences. Others have become followers of Christ later in life. All find a home in our church with opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service.
Funds raised during this campaign will be donated to ReEstablish Richmond, an organization that seeks to help refugees become integrated into our community through a variety of programs that build self-sufficiency and independence. More information about ReEstablish Richmond can be found at https://www.reestablishrichmond.org/our-programs).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Charity Footprints?
Charity Footprints is a social enterprise that connects fitness and charitable giving. We empower people just like you, to get fit & give back.
Our Virtual Races allow non-profits to challenge their patrons to run, walk or ride and raise funds just as they would in a fundraising walkathon. The best part - charities save over 45% in event and logistical costs. So, the dollars that you pay to register or fundraise, go farther.
What is the campaign registration fee?
Campaign registration fee is the amount that you'll need to pay to enroll in this virtual race. This fee (less transaction charges) will go to the non-profit running this campaign as a donation.
The registration fee along with the funds raised through your individual fundraising page will enable the non-profit to fund various programs and pursue their organization's mission.
How can I create my fundraising page?
Well, you wouldn't have to create a separate fundraising page. Once you register for this campaign, we'll give you the link to your fundraising page.
If you workout indoors (treadmill, elliptical, stationary bike etc.), you can upload your workouts here.
How do I join a team on this campaign?
While registering for the campaign, select the team you'd like to join or create a new team and invite others to #GetFitGiveBack with you. If you want to join a team (or create your team) after registration, login to the campaign site and you would find a link to edit "My Team" in the menu under your profile in the header.
I am an international donor (non-US), what are my donation charges and tax-deductibility?
All donations are made in US dollars, so the donations may be levied an exchange rate fee via your bank. Donors will want to connect with their bank to determine exactly what that fee may be. Additionally, international donors will need to reach out to a tax professional to discuss if and how tax deductibility will apply to their donation.
Who can sponsor my fundraising efforts?
The short answer is - everyone. The fundraising research shows that the number one reason for people not donating is that they weren't asked to.
That said, there are things you can do to attract people to sponsor you. Adding a picture to your fundraising page, telling potential donors why this cause is so personal to you, sharing your fundraising page on social media, email, and chat groups.
Last, if your employer has a gift matching program, check with the human resources department to support your favorite cause as well.
Who can I contact if I need help?
You can contact us any time if you need help. We love hearing from our users so please don't hesitate to write to us about issues, suggestions, or to just say hi. You can also contact the non-profit administrator directly if you would like.
How do I change or switch my team?
If you want to join a team (or create your team) after registration, login to the campaign site and you would find a link to edit "My Team" in the menu under your profile in the header.
CAMPAIGN CHAT
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