Susan G. Komen for the Cure races draw participants from countries around the world.
The Susan G. Komen for the Cure remains one of the most prominent breast cancer awareness events around the world. Race organizers often begin preparation for the event by contacting the parent foundation to obtain information regarding the race, the cause and event management. The five-kilometer run/fitness walk is held at various locations both domestically and internationally. The event also draws a large number of participants with a keen interest in raising public awareness regarding the dangers associated with the onset of breast cancer.
Instructions
1. Contact the Susan G. Komen foundation (see Resources). Currently, the Susan G Komen foundation provides a network of affiliates throughout the United States and in Germany and Italy. Affiliates provide a point of contact for prospective Race for the Cure organizers and interested participants. To organize a race, register with the foundation's affiliate program online to obtain permission for use of the foundation's registered trademarks. In addition, call the Susan G. Komen Foundation's toll-free line, (877) 465-6636, to locate a local affiliate or to begin the registration process.
2. Solicit sponsorship. The Susan G. Komen website allows visitors to undergo sponsorship registration or donate individually to help raise breast cancer awareness or to a Race for the Cure event. In addition to this, seek sponsorship from businesses, charities and individual advocates. Set a desired amount to be generated from sponsorship while drafting a sponsorship agreement covering period of sponsorship and donation usage. Correspond with participating sponsors before, during and following the race. Allow for direct sponsor presence on T-shirts, fliers, websites and promotional material.
3. Map a route. Use a GPS-enabled device to select a race route that spans at least five kilometers, as is the norm for a Susan G. Komen race. In city areas, select a route along wide, paved roads that contain a minimal number of incline surfaces and is free from road construction or debris. Contact city, county and state officials to obtain licenses and permits regarding public races. Contact police officials to obtain road barriers and police escort if needed.
4. Promote the race. Market the race by developing an event-related blog that drives traffic to the upcoming race schedule on the foundation's website. In addition, begin posting fliers in businesses, hospitals and schools while producing a radio or television ad discussing the time date and purpose of the race. Contact local running clubs and athletic organizations and inform local charities and philanthropists of the date, time and place of the event.
5. Acquire race-related supplies. The Susan G. Komen foundation provides a number of event-related items for registered affiliates while providing resources through the foundation's web-based storefront. When organizing the event, purchase chairs and tables, numbered race bibs, drinking water, cups and race-related custom banners for use during the race. Solicit donations for these items or rent some of the items from athletic supply shops. In addition, in accordance with the theme of breast cancer awareness, most purchased items must be entirely pink or contain elements of the color within their design.
6. Prepare for medical emergencies. Contact the local fire company or hospital emergency department to notify officials of your event. Races often have an ambulance on site in case of emergencies. Set the medical guidelines by providing a written agreement establishing runner protocol for acute medical symptoms such as dizziness, cramping, falls and chest pain. In addition, plan the positioning of medical personnel along the span of the race route.
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