Team FD – FAQs

Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions. Don’t see your question? No problem! Just email us at TeamFD@FirstDescents.org

1. I am excited to be a part of Team FD, what should my Challenge be?

Your challenge can be something you do on your own like paddling the perimeter of Lake Champlain.  More conventionally, it could be part of an organized or sanctioned event like the Kona Ironman. It’s all about what defines challenge for you! Do something that encourages you to push your limits  . . . but also something that you will enjoy!

2.  I hate to ask people for money, any suggestions?

Check out  Fundraising Tips. It will provide you help with writing the perfect “ask,” following up and hosting a fundraising event. If you still have questions or need help please do not hesitate to email us at TeamFD@FirstDescents.org.

3.   Your Fundraising Page can be linked to directly to Facebook by you and your friends.  

Use the “Send” Button to invite people to view your page.
Ask friends to “Like” your page and your fundraising link will be posted on their page.
When friends “Comment” on your challenge this will also show up on their page.

4.  Can you help me explain the mission of First Descents?

Our mission:  First Descents offers young adult cancer fighters and survivors (ages 18 to 39) a free week-long outdoor adventure experience designed to enable them to climb, paddle and surf beyond their diagnosis, defy their cancer, reclaim their lives and connect with others doing the same.

Additionally, here is a list of Participant Quotes. These are from actual participants that describe the impact that First Descents programming has had on their lives. They are very effective in garnering donor support as the quotes clarify and personalize the mission and the recipients of their generosity. We have gotten amazing donor feedback about these quotes as well.

5.  Do you have any Fundraising Incentives?

YES!! Just for committing to being on Team FD, you’ll receive a Team FD T-shirt.  In addition, we have 3 levels of fundraising incentives; the catch is that you can only receive one prize. If you raise $300 you will receive a Team FD tech shirt, raise $600 and receive a Team FD cycling jersey, and for a $1,000 raised you can get the full Team FD cycling kit or Tri-Suit. We want you to be able to compete in your Team FD wears, so be sure to fundraise early enough for us to get it out to you before your challenge.

Please fill out the Team FD Gear form and email it to TeamFD@FirstDescents.org or fax it to 303-474-3005.

6.  My donors do not want to donate on-line, are checks okay?

Absolutely! Please have them make checks payable to First Descents with your name in the memo so that we can credit your Team FD Page.

Send Checks to:
First Descents
6000 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Suite 120
Greenwood Village, CO  80111

7.  I am sending out Thank You Notes and need a list of my donors.

Great – thank you notes are a must!!  A good thank you note will always be remembered and very much appreciated.  To receive a list of all your on-line donors go to the Team FD Home Page.  In the top right hand corner click on “Sign In”.  Enter your email address and password.  Under My Reports, on the right hand side, click on the link under My Fundraising.   A report of donors, donation amounts and email addresses should be provided.

Now you have the info you need to get started. So what are you waiting for? Get your page ready, and start fundraising!

Good Luck, and thanks for being a part of TEAM FD!

Your Partner in Challenge,

Lisa Goldstein
Team FD Manager