Seeking alumni donations isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about connecting with former students. By tapping into emotional motivators like nostalgia, recognition, and shared impact, you can inspire former students to stay engaged and give back.
How to Run a Jog-a-Thon Fundraiser
Here, we’ll show you the A-Z of jog-a-thons, including planning, tracking donations, and ideas on how to organize and promote it.
Jog-a-Thon Guide Table of Contents
1
Step by Step Guide
Everything you need to know about starting a jog-a-thon from A-Z.
2
Jog-a-Thon 101
A quick introduction to what a jog-a-thon is and how it works.
3
What is an "A-Thon" & How Does it Work?
Thon’s can be a powerful fundraising tool.
4
What do you need to run a Jog-a-Thon?
The tools, support, and volunteers you’ll need for a successful jog-a-thon.
5
Using a Jog-a-Thon to Fundraise
How to raise money with jog-a-thons.
6
Templates, Ideas, Tools, & Resources
Kickstart your jog-a-thon using curated templates and tools.
7
Jog-a-Thon Theme Ideas
Feel inspired with our jog-a-thon theme examples.
Run Your Jog-a-Thon for FREE With FutureFund!
Jog-a-thons are extremely effective fundraisers since they benefit both your school and the participants. Joggers get to stay active while supporting a good cause, whether it’s their school, extra-curricular, or club.
The Steps to Running Your Jog-A-Thon
Step One: Choose a Date & Theme
- Choose the date of your Jog-A-Thon three months before the event. Jog-A-Thons usually take place on a single day, so choose a date that doesn’t conflict with other school plans.
- Make sure your PTA coordinates with the school ahead of time to make sure the school grounds are available, plan any portions of the route that are off-campus, get insurance if necessary, and arrange custodial services.
Jog-A-Thon Planning Infographic and Checklist
Use these templates to keep your Jog-A-Thon planning on track:
Step Two: Call for Volunteers
- Put out a call for volunteers two months before the event. Use FutureFund’s built-in messaging system to reach the parents and volunteers most likely to participate.
- Make sure your call for volunteers clearly states what cause or project the Jog-A-Thon will support.
- Perform background checks for any volunteers from outside the school who need to be present during the event (if required by your school).
Example Volunteer Positions for Jog-A-Thons
- Event Coordinator: Oversees the entire event including planning, coordination, and day-of execution.
- Route Planner: Designs and marks the jog-a-thon route, ensuring it is safe and clearly indicated.
- Registration Team: Manages pre-event registrations, day-of sign-ups, and distributes participant materials like bib numbers.
- Fundraising Team: Coordinates the collection of pledges and donations, and manages any additional fundraising activities.
- Safety Officers: Ensure the safety of participants and coordinate with any local authorities if the route takes place off campus to ensure traffic closures, permits, etc.
- Water Station Volunteers: Sets up and manages water stations along the route to keep joggers hydrated.
- First Aid Volunteers: Provide basic first aid and coordinate with medical professionals for emergencies.
- Start/Finish Line Coordinators: Manages the start and finish line areas, including timing and organizing the start and finish of the jog.
- Refreshment Coordinators: Manages post-jog refreshments and food for participants and volunteers.
- Photographer/Videographer: Captures moments from the event for future promotion and participant keepsakes.
- Cleanup Crew: Responsible for post-event cleanup, ensuring the route and start/finish areas are left tidy.
Step Three: Choose Student Incentives
- Incentives motivate students to register for your Jog-A-Thon and collect pledges. Each student should have a specific fundraising goal—usually between $300-$500.
- It’s better to offer incentives to the class or grade that raises the most money than to individual students, as this is a more cost-effective way to motivate groups and can also discourage unhealthy competition. Try an ice cream social or a pizza party for the best results.
Step Four: Create Your Jog-A-Thon’s Campaign
Use FutureFund to create a Pledge-A-Thon campaign and provide your campaign details.
Make sure your campaign has the following elements:
- A clear and compelling event description and rules, including what the money raised will go towards and what the incentives will be for participating students.
- A leaderboard that shows the grades and teachers for each participating class, along with how much each has raised. These are fully customizable in FutureFund, so you can create custom categories for each Jog-A-Thon.
- A template students can use to collect pledges from members of the school community. FutureFund provides a sample template for this in all A-Thon campaigns, which you can modify to include the specific details of your event.
Sample Jog-A-Thon Rules Template
Here’s a Canva template of sample Jog-A-Thon rules. Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Step Five: Announce the Event & Sign-Up Students
- Send out an announcement of your Jog-A-Thon to the school community two weeks before the event begins and request that students sign up to participate.
- Share the news in as many places as possible—use the school newsletter, morning announcements, and FutureFund’s messaging system to tell everyone why the event is important and how they can be part of it.
- Use FutureFund to send follow-up messages every other day leading up to the event to encourage participation.
- The night before the event, send a final reminder to get the school community excited about the event and encourage them to keep offering support.
Initial Email for Student Sign-Ups
Subject: Get Ready to Run at [School Name]’s Annual Jog-A-Thon!
Hello Students,
Tie up your laces for our upcoming Jog-A-Thon! This isn’t just a run; it’s a fun and healthy way to show your school spirit, support our community, and challenge yourself.
Why join the Jog-A-Thon?
- Participate in a healthy and enjoyable physical activity.
Help raise funds for [insert cause or school project]. - Earn prizes and recognition for your effort and fundraising.
How to Sign Up:
Signing up is easy and exciting! Just click on this link [insert FutureFund link], follow the registration steps, and you’re on your way to the starting line.
You’ll also receive a link to share with friends and family for pledges based on your distance or laps jogged.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just want to enjoy a day of fun, this event is for everyone. Let’s jog together for a great cause!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[School or Name of School Group]
You can also use this Canva template to keep a copy of your email script handy. Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Sample Follow-Up Email to Donors
Subject: Help Us Race Towards Our Goal – [School Name] Jog-A-Thon Update!
Dear [Donor’s Name],
We’re so grateful for your support of our Jog-A-Thon! Your contributions are helping us provide an engaging experience for our students and reach our fundraising goals for [insert specific goal or cause].
Current Update:
- [Number of students] enthusiastic runners are set to hit the track!
- We’ve reached [percentage] of our fundraising target.
There’s still time to support our runners through FutureFund at [insert link]. Your generosity is crucial to our success and greatly appreciated by our entire school community.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
[School or Name of School Group]
You can also use this Canva template to keep a copy of your email script handy. Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Sample Email for the Final Day Before the Jog-A-Thon
Subject: On Your Marks, Get Set, Go! Final Day Before [School Name]’s Jog-A-Thon!
Hello [Name of School] Students & Families!
The big day is almost here! Our Jog-A-Thon is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see our students in action, running and having fun.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Last chance to gather pledges! Please encourage your friends and family to support you via FutureFund at [insert link].
- Join us at [Location] on [Date]. The run starts at [Time], so come early to cheer for our joggers!
Let’s make the final day a sprint to remember. Your support is invaluable to our students and makes a significant impact on our school community. Let’s run towards a fantastic finish!
See you at the track,
[Your Name]
[School or Name of School Group]
You can also use this Canva template to keep a copy of your email script handy. Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Templates for Promoting Your Jog-A-Thon
Here are some Canva templates to help you spread awareness for your Jog-A-Thon on social media and in your community! Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Canva Jog-A-Thon Template for Instagram Story
Canva Jog-A-Thon Template for Instagram Post
Canva Jog-A-Thon Template for Printable Poster
Example caption: Support [insert school name]’s Jog-A-Thon from [insert date]. Help our school community raise money for [insert cause] by registering to jog!
Step Six: Find Sponsors
Ask local businesses to sponsor the Jog-A-Thon. This can help your PTA reach your fundraising targets while business owners get exposure and positive PR.
Make sure to explain how each sponsor’s contribution will be recognized. For example, you could:
- Hang a banner in the gym with sponsor logos during the event.
- Offer branded water bottles or other swag to participants.
- Add sponsors to your school’s online store using FutureFund.
Types of Sponsorship:
- Direct donations—either towards your fundraising goal or to help cover the costs of supplies.
- Corporate matching is where a business makes a donation equal to all or a portion of the funds you raise from the community.
- Selling sponsorships on FutureFund via advertising on your campaign page.
Step Seven: Host the Jog-A-Thon
Finally, the day of the event will arrive—and if you’ve followed all the steps above, you should have everything you need to make it successful. Here’s a sample event schedule:
Early Morning Session
- 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM: Setup and Volunteer Arrival: Volunteers arrive to set up the course, registration area, water stations, and first aid stations. They also set up any additional areas like refreshment stands and sponsor booths.
- 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Participant Arrival and Registration: Joggers arrive, check in, and receive their race numbers and any other materials.
- 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Opening Ceremony and Warm-Up: Welcome speech, brief overview of the course and rules, followed by a group warm-up session led by a fitness instructor or volunteer.
Morning Session
- 8:30 AM: Jog-A-Thon Start: Participants start jogging. Depending on the number of participants, start times can be staggered in waves.
- 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Main Jogging Event: Participants jog the course. Volunteers at water stations provide hydration and encouragement.
Midday Session
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Lunch Break and Entertainment: A break for lunch with food available for purchase. Entertainment, such as music or a guest speaker, can be provided.
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Final Laps: Last chance for joggers to complete their laps or distance goals.
Afternoon Session
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Cool Down and Refreshments: As participants finish, they are greeted with refreshments and an area to cool down. This can include light snacks, water, and fruits.
- 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Awards and Recognition Ceremony: Awards for various achievements such as most laps completed, highest funds raised, best team spirit, etc.
- 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Closing Remarks: Thank you speech by the event coordinator, announcement of total funds raised, and official closing of the event.
- 3:00 PM onwards: Cleanup: Volunteers and staff begin cleaning up the venue, dismantling any temporary setups, and ensuring the area is left tidy.
Post-Event Tasks
- One Day After the Event: Send out a message thanking all donors, participants, and volunteers.
- One Week After the Event: Hold an event for the winning class or grade (ice cream social or pizza party).
Jog-a-Thon 101
What is a Jog-a-Thon?
A Jog-A-Thon, also called a FunRun or Run-A-Thon, is a straightforward and popular type of a-thon. It works similarly to any running fundraising event, like a 5K race or marathon, except you can customize the distance.
It’s a bit less intimidating than a conventional race since participants don’t have to run a certain distance. PTA’s are less stressful to organize, since you don’t have to worry about things like water stations like you would for longer races.
Jog-a-Thon Goals & Rules
Treat these as a base and feel free to tailor these to suit your specific event.
Length
The main thing you have to plan for a jog-a-thon is the length or your route. Consider how accessible you want the event to be. Typically, the shorter the distance, the more people who will be able to participate. A distance between 1 and 5 miles is a good starting point.
Jogging Goal
Your jog-a-thon will have a pre-determined route and distance, so the jogging goal for participants should be to complete the course. Alternatively, you can also host jog-a-thons where joggers lap the school field or track. In this case, you should set a goal number of laps, which is usually around 5-10 laps.
Jogging Route
Your jog-a-thon route should be fully paved since that will make it easier for more people to participate. If a local park has a continuous paved path, that’s a great spot to host your jog-a-thon.
If there are no parks like this near your school, you can plan a circular route using sidewalks. For a bigger group of over 50 people, you’ll want to consider using roadways on your route. You’ll need permits for this, so just make sure you plan this event so you can get the permits well in advance.
Recommended Starting Rules
Before you start telling students and parents about the Jog-A-Thon, you should decide the following:
- Distance
- Route
- Date
- Theme
Pledge Collection
Start telling students about the Jog-A-Thon at least two weeks before it starts.
Students should be signed up in your fundraising system so they can gather donations for at least seven days before the fundraiser starts (although it’s still okay to take last-minute sign-ups).
Frequently Asked Questions About Jog-a-Thons
How does a Jog-A-Thon work?
Like other types of a-thon fundraisers, Jog-A-Thons use a peer-to-peer fundraising model. Participants sign up for the Jog-A-Thon and ask their friends, family, and coworkers (or their parents’ coworkers) for support through donations.
Each jogger participates in the Jog-A-Thon in exchange for the donations. The Jog-A-Thon itself is a set course around your school, town, or city.
How long is a Jog-A-Thon?
Jog-a-thons are extremely customizable, which is one of the great things about them. You can choose the date, distance, theme, and more.
When choosing the distance, you’ll want to think about who is participating. An elementary school fundraiser, for example, should be on the shorter side. For a junior high or high school, you can make the course longer.
When should you hold a Jog-A-Thon?
Jog-a-thons work best when you can hold the event outside. This means you’ll want to plan yours for a warmer time of year. September, May, or June are typically the best months to plan a jog-a-thon.
What do people need to participate?
Jog-a-thons are easy for participants to join since they don’t need any special skills or equipment. And unlike other running fundraisers, participants don’t need to be able to run long distances. All they need is a pair of running shoes, and they can jog as fast or as slowly as they like.
What are the benefits of a Jog-A-Thon fundraiser?
Jog-a-thons are easy for participants to join since they don’t need any special skills or equipment. And unlike other running fundraisers, participants don’t need to be able to run long distances. All they need is a pair of running shoes, and they can jog as fast or as slowly as they like.
How do I use FutureFund to track my fundraiser’s success?
FutureFund gives you the ability to generate financial reports for fundraising campaigns in just a few clicks. To do this, navigate to Store and click the Reports tab near the top of your screen. Then choose Campaign Summary from the drop-down menu and click Generate Report.
Can volunteers for my Jog-A-Thon sign up automatically through FutureFund?
Yes—FutureFund lets you create a list of the volunteer positions you’ll need to fill, then add a volunteer page to your registration portal so parents can sign up in just a few simple clicks. See the steps for signing up volunteers here.
FutureFund is FREE for Schools
Schools that sign up get full access to all of FutureFund’s features—it’s always free and it always will be.
What is a “Thon”?
Thon’s Are Fun & Effective Event-Based Fundraisers
An “a-thon” is a peer-to-peer style fundraiser that involves participating in a certain activity and gathering donations for participating in said activity.
The activity can be almost anything, from reading to running to bowling. No matter what activity you choose, the premise is the same. Participants commit to doing the activity (reading a certain amount of books, running a certain distance) and ask their friends, family, and coworkers to support them.
A-thons work great because you reach a huge donor pool through peer-to-peer fundraising. People are also more likely to donate since participants are “working” in return for the donations.
What Do You Need to Run a Jog-a-Thon?
Power it With FutureFund
FutureFund’s built-in pledge campaigns allow you to easily collect money and keep donations/pledges organized. Since parents cover payment processing fees, 100% of the funds raised go to your school!
FutureFund is easy to use - for everyone
FutureFund makes running a jog-a-thon easy for everyone. Easier for PTAs and PTOs to run, for students and parents to participate, and for donors to donate.
Accept online donations
Instead of dealing with paper pledge forms and cash and cheques, FutureFund takes the process online. Donors can donate instantly online with their credit or debit cards.
A single tool to power your entire Thon!
FutureFund makes it easy to track how the fundraiser is going. Easily view how much money has been raised and more with detailed reporting.
Using a Jog-a-Thon for Fundraising
Consider the below when organizing your jog-a-thon. Spending a bit of time up front getting organized from an admin and donation perspective will save a lot of time and potential frustration later.
Managing and organizing pledges
Each student will sign up as a participant in the fundraiser. Then, they can collect pledges individually by credit or debit card. You can also accept cash pledges, but be mindful of properly storing and tracking cash you collect.
If you are using FutureFund, you can record these pledges and they will automatically count towards the student’s total and the grand total for the fundraiser.
Donor information and donation management
Before launching your fundraiser, confirm what records you need to collect from donors.
If you are using FutureFund, it’s easy for students to sign up, especially if their information is already in the system. You can bulk sign up entire grades or classes. All donor payments are automatically entered into the system, so you can instantly see each student’s total and the grand total.
Make sure you accept online donations
Fundraising campaigns that accept online donations perform much better than fundraisers that only accept cash or check.
If you are using FutureFund, you can accept payments online. Donors are given a donation link and can pay by credit or debit card. Any cash donations can also be noted in the system to be collected later.
Jog-a-Thon Templates & Resources
Planning resources
Use these templates to keep your Jog-A-Thon planning on track:
Sample Jog-a-Thon Rules
1. Objective of the Event
- The Jog-A-Thon is aimed at promoting physical fitness, school spirit, and community involvement while raising funds for [Specify Cause or School Needs].
2. Participant Eligibility
- Open to all students.
- Participants must complete a registration form, found at [insert link to FutureFund campaign]
3. Event Format
- The Jog-A-Thon will take place on [Specify Date and Time].
- The event will last for [Specify Duration].
- The course will be clearly marked and supervised.
4. Pledge System
- Participants seek pledges from family, friends, and community members.
- Pledges can be a fixed amount or based on the number of laps completed.
- Pledges will be collected via FutureFund by [Specify Deadline].
5. Safety and Dress Code
- Appropriate athletic attire and running shoes must be worn.
- Participants should bring water bottles and sunscreen.
- First aid will be available on-site.
6. Running/Jogging Rules
- Participants can run, jog, or walk.
- No competitive racing; the event is non-competitive and focuses on participation.
- Participants must stay on the designated course.
7. Lap Tracking
- Each lap completed will be recorded by volunteers.
- Only fully completed laps will count towards the final tally.
8. Rest and Hydration
- Rest areas and hydration stations will be available along the course.
- Participants are encouraged to take breaks as needed.
9. Respect and Conduct
- Participants must be respectful to others on the course.
- No pushing, shoving, or inappropriate behavior.
10. Weather or Emergency Situations
- In case of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances, the event may be rescheduled.
- Safety is the priority; participants will be notified in advance of any changes.
11. Volunteers and Spectators
- Family and friends are encouraged to come and support.
- Volunteers needed for lap counting, hydration stations, and first aid.
Or, here’s a Canva template of sample Jog-a-thon rules. Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Sample Jog-a-Thon Event Description
Unsure of where to start? Use this sample student and parent messaging to get the ball rolling!
—
Let’s get moving! On [date], [school name] will be hosting a jog-a-thon to help fundraise for [cause]. You can help by joining our jog! Parents, each student will be collecting pledges online through FutureFund: [link].
Please spread the word to your family, friends, and coworkers to help make this fundraiser a success!
Set Up Online Pledges With FutureFund
Let parents and supporters donate online with FutureFund’s online pledges. Try it out for free!
—
Make your donation easily and instantly! Click this [link] to make your donation through secure credit or debit card payment.
If you prefer to donate by cash or check, just donate directly to the student you’re supporting. Thank you for your support!
Sample Jog-A-Thon Email Scripts
Use these Canva email script templates to call out for Jog-A-Thon participants, donations, and to keep your fundraiser top-of-mind. Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Canva Jog-A-Thon Student Sign-up Email Template
Sample Jog-A-Thon Template for Instagram
Use these Canva templates to help you spread awareness for your Jog-A-Thon on social media and in your community! Click “Use template for new design” to create an editable version, then add custom information for your event, change fonts and graphics, and more!
Canva Jog-A-Thon Template for Instagram Story
Canva Jog-A-Thon Template for Instagram Post
Canva Jog-A-Thon Template for Printable Poster
Example caption: Support [insert school name]’s Jog-A-Thon from [insert date]. Help our school community raise money for [insert cause] by registering to jog!
Jog-a-Thon Theme Ideas
Holiday
You can do a jog-a-thon at any time of year and match it with upcoming holidays. In the fall, for example, you can do a zombie or monster walk for Halloween.
Color Jog
You’ve probably heard of a color run, and you can use the same theme for your jog-a-thon. They’re tons of fun and make for great photos once everyone is covered in flour paint. For a less messy alternative, you can do a bubble jog.
Disney Jog
It’s usually harder to convince kids not to dress up, so an event where dressing up is required will be a hit! Encourage participants to wear their best superhero, princess, or movie character costume.
Rock 'n Roll Race
For this theme, participants can dress up as their favorite music icons. A little rock ‘n roll music at the event helps motivate joggers too.
Obstacle Course
Make your jog-a-thon stand out with obstacles. You can have a few optional obstacles like hurdles, ladders, and even a mud pit that make the event more engaging.
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