Frequently Asked Questions

What is Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis?

Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis is the nation’s largest event dedicated to finding cures for digestive diseases. Participants raise money for crucial research that wouldn’t even have been possible a few short years ago, bringing us closer to a future free from Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Beyond raising money for research, Take Steps brings together the Crohn’s and colitis community in a fun and energetic atmosphere. Participants are encouraged to make noise and be heard  -- raising awareness of these little-known diseases in their community and across the nation.

When and where is Take Steps held?

Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis will be held nationwide on evenings in May and June 2010. Please visit your local chapter website to find information on your local walk.

How much does it cost to participate?

There is no registration fee to participate in Take Steps. All fundraising participants will receive a noisemaker to help us “Be Heard” in the fight against digestive diseases. Please keep in mind that it does cost some money to host the Take Steps Walks.

What does the average participant raise?

Last year, the average participant raised $250. Beat the national average and set your goals even higher! Participants who raise $100 or more are eligible for great prizes!

Who Walks?

You have the option to walk as an individual or a team.  We encourage you to form a team and invite your friends, family members, coworkers and everyone you know to join and help raise funds for our cause. Kids can join too!  Not only will it enhance your experience but it will further help you in your fundraising efforts and ultimately help advance CCFA’s mission.

Is it difficult to organize a team?

Not at all. Once you have registered as a team captain, CCFA staff will provide all the materials, guidance, and motivation you need to form a successful team. Team Captains are the liaison between team members and CCFA. They are responsible for recruiting and motivating other team members to participate and raise funds for Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis.

Why are teams important to success?

Teams account for about 80% of the monies raised at our walks. Teams represent companies, organizations, families, schools, and clubs and can range from as few as five walkers to hundreds! Forming teams is a great way to build company morale and camaraderie among co-workers. Families and friends can also join together to walk for a common cause and increase community spirit.

Are pets, bicycles, strollers, or in-line skates allowed?

Strollers are welcome at all walk sites. Bicycles and in-line skates are not allowed. Pets are welcome on leashes at most walk sites, but please check with your local chapter.

How long is the route?

Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis is a non-competitive walk event with routes that average about two miles in length.

What if it rains?

Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis will take place rain or shine! If there is dangerous weather, the local chapter will notify participants of alternate plans.

How can my company match my funds?

Matching gifts are a great way to increase donations. Check to see if your company will match employee contributions and encourage your donors to do the same. To take part in a matching gifts program, request an application from the benefits manager or human resources department. Send the completed form to your local chapter, and CCFA will verify receipt of your gift and complete the process.

How do I turn in donations?

Funds raised online are automatically directed to CCFA. For funds raised offline, please use the walker collection envelope to turn in money at the walk or prior to the walk at a bank day. Funds can also be turned in to the local chapter any time of year.

Who do I make checks payable to?

Please make checks payable to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, or CCFA.

What are benefits of using online fundraising?

Online fundraising is designed to make your fundraising efforts a total success. Here are some of the benefits of fundraising online:

• Participants raise an average of 27% more money when they raise funds online vs. the conventional offline walker envelope method.
• Save money on stamps by sending emails instead of solicitation letters through the mail. Keep track of donors through the use of built-in online fundraising tools.
• Send thank you notes via email upon receiving donations.
• Provide donors the benefit of automatic confirmation email receipts to use for tax purposes.
• Ability to accept credit cards so donors don't need to hassle with checks.
• Save time by allowing the system to process all the data so you won't have to deal with paperwork.
• Have fun personalizing your webpage -- tell your personal story and upload a picture before sending out to friends and family