Parkinson's Foundation Volunteer Leadership Summit
View from my window
I also attended the Parkinson's Foundation Volunteer Leadership Summit on July 24th and 25th in Hollywood Florida. I flew in on the 23rd, because flying twice in two days would be exhausting for me if I did not have PD and with PD, it is nearly impossible. Fatigue is one of the symptoms of PD that most effects me.
It was a wonderful resort and offered to charge me the group rate for the night of the 23rd. Personally, I did not think that $250.00 was such a great rate for Florida in July and therefore, I spent the first night in a more affordable hotel, just down the road. The reviews on Expedia described the experience as as, "like staying in an IKEA Catalogue..." The description was accurate, but the room was clean, quiet and across the street from the ocean. Luckily the resort let me check in at 10am on the 24th and I had time for a quick swim in the pool and the ocean before the summit began.
People with PD have a great sense of humor (look at the drink special sign).
During the Summit, I learned about the new advances in research and a great deal about fundraising. Personally, I would have liked to hear more about how patients can assist with the development of new research, but foundations survive on fundraising so that must be the focus.
Some Helpful Fundraising Tips I Learned:
Never tell people that they are, "making a difference."
Why? It is trite and meaningless. Think about it, we see signs everywhere informing us that we are making a difference when we reuse our towel at a hotel, recycle, return our shopping cart etc. Helping to cure Parkinson's Disease should not be described in the same way that you would thank people for not using a lid and straw when the purchase a beverage!
Personal stories should be less than 600 words and uplifting.
Of course, you want people to understand that they are helping to further an important cause. Just do it without literally boring them to tears.
Try to avoid asking and/or allowing major donors to speak at events.
Why? Well, mostly because it is boring. Think about it, when have you attended an event and thought, "I had so much fun. I only wish there would have been more speeches..."? Instead, ask the donor to help present an award, cut a ribbon or fire the starting pistol. Give important donors something to do NOT something to say.
Get a good sound system!
Nothing you say matters if people cannot hear you!
Ask people for help not money!
Self-explanatory. Think about it.
Remember, people are not there for the food, drinks or the music.
The food and drinks could be great or terrible, but the important thing is to remind each individual of her or his personal connection to the cause. If you do this, the event is successful regardless of almost everything else.
Me & James Beck, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Chief Scientific Officer
Conclusion
It was nice to see some other Parkys and I learned a great deal. My Next trip with the Foundation is to London in October. I will keep you informed.
Until next time..
