3 ways to turn physical activity into a fundraiser for your favorite cause

Adding exercise to your routine can reduce stress, increase energy, boost your immune system, control your weight and reduce your risk of cancer. And fitness is not just good for your health; it’s also a great way to raise money for cancer prevention and early detection!

Making a difference doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking; fundraise your way by turning everyday events and activities—from cycling to counting your steps—into events benefiting what matters most to you. Additionally, these events can be a great way to honor a loved one’s legacy or personal cancer story.

Any way that you like to get moving can be used to fund cancer prevention and early detection. Here are three creative ways to turn your favorite exercise into a fundraiser!

1. Set up your own tournament or game.

Host your own golf, basketball, volleyball (or any sport!) tournament with friends. If you have access to a gym facility, ask the manager if you could set up a fundraiser. Then, spread the word! Have a registration fee, with all donations going to the fundraiser.

2. Join a pre-established competition or tournament.

Look up marathons, 5ks, kickball leagues or other events with your sport of choice. Then, post on social media and ask your friends to support you in raising money. You can also ask the organizers if you can collect donations in-person at the event. If you’re on a league or team, have a themed game to raise awareness and donations.

3. Create a personal fundraiser using social media.

You can raise money by doing jumping jacks or pushups for every dollar donated. Facebook and Instagram both have fundraiser options, or you can ask friends to donate directly to you using a platform like Venmo or Zelle, so you can make one big donation at the end.

Matt Milner, an avid cyclist, has done this since 2016 through an annual bike ride called Champion Awareness to honor cancer survivors and increase awareness of cancer prevention and early detection. By fundraising and live streaming on social media, Matt makes a huge impact while doing what he loves—biking!

These activities are a great way to bond with friends, engage your community and make a difference in the world all at the same time. Consider using your favorite form of fitness to help the Prevent Cancer Foundation build a world where cancer is preventable, detectable and beatable for all.

To start your own fundraiser, visit preventcancer.org/fundraise-your-way.