Avon Walk FAQ

Event Basics & General Information
On the Event
Crew Members & Volunteers
Fundraising
The Avon Foundation for Women
Funds Raised by the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

 

EVENT BASICS AND GENERAL INFORMATION

  1. What is the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer?
    The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is a national series of 39-mile weekend fundraising events launched in 2003 by the Avon Foundation. Cities and dates are as follows:

  2. How are the dates scheduled for the Avon Walk series?
    Our Event dates are chosen based on a number of factors. We attempt to schedule Events when the weather is most likely to cooperate, when sites that suit our size and needs are available, and when there are no major holidays or other known previously-scheduled large events in the same city.

  3. How are the cities chosen for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer?
    We make some tough choices in determining where to schedule the Avon Walk events, creating a schedule that allows us to produce enjoyable, safe and successful events within our resources and in areas that can support an event of this magnitude, while giving as many people as possible a chance to participate. We’ve also found that many of our participants choose to travel to different Avon Walks throughout the country. On average, we have participants from 30-40 different states at every Avon Walk. What better way to experience a new city!

  4. Can I start an Avon Walk in my city?
    Unfortunately, we cannot support start-up events in additional cities. Each official Avon Walk is a weekend-long event which can attract thousands of participants, hundreds of crew members and volunteers, a carefully coordinated 39-mile route, an overnight "city" and extensive logistical management. The Events are centrally managed out of the Avon Foundation for Women headquarters in New York; this enables us to ensure the safety and quality of each event, while carefully managing costs. Because of our trademark, no event can be named or called an "Avon Walk for Breast Cancer" nor can any other event [or activity] use "Avon" in its name in any way, unless it is part of the official Avon Walk for Breast Cancer event.  Fundraising activities may be designated as "in support of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer" or something similar.

  5. Are the Avon Walks women-only events?
    Absolutely not! Men are both welcome and encouraged to participate. Breast cancer touches everyone - families, parents, brothers, sisters, and children. The disease even strikes a small percentage of men. Everyone can do their part in the fight against it.

  6. Can my husband (or my mom, my friend, my daughter, etc.) walk with me without registering or fundraising?
    Unfortunately, no. Our route and services are only open to registered participants who have met the fundraising and other requirements. If your family or friends cannot join you as a registered Avon Walk participant, invite them be at one of the cheering stations along the route where they can meet and support you. We will let you know where these cheering stations will be located several weeks prior to your Event. These are safe and convenient places for them to cheer you on.

  7. Can I form a team for the Walk?
    Yes you can and we hope you will!  Forming a team is a great way to train and fundraise. You can form your own team or check to see if there is an existing team you can join. Read about our Team Program on the website and in your Participant Handbook or call your local event office.

  8. How do you split a donation amongst team members?
    Each team member must use their individual coupons sent to them from the local office when a donation is split. You can send the check to the Donation Office along with each team member’s coupons in one envelope. NOTE: You may not use online coupons to split donations.

  9. What is the minimum age requirement? Can my kids walk with me?
    The minimum age for participation for a Walker or regular Crew member in the Avon Walk is 16. Insurance costs prohibit us from welcoming anyone under that age, even if they are accompanied by their parents. For children 10-16 years old, there is the Avon Walk Youth Crew which enables a small group of kids to participate. There are limited spots and an application process. Click here for information. There are also some volunteer opportunities for teenagers; you can find out about these through your local event office.

  10. Am I required to have health insurance?
    We very, very strongly recommend personal health insurance for each participant. In the event that you become ill or are injured during the Walk and have to be transported to a hospital, you will be responsible for 100% of transportation and service costs. Our medical team can only provide basic first aid services.

  11. Can you help me with training and fundraising?
    Yes, we can! Once you register, you'll have access to a comprehensive support system. You'll be assigned to a Walker Buddy -a staff member who can help you with just about anything you need. We have a training program to help you to begin walking short distances and increase your mileage over time, plus volunteer-led Training Walks to train with other Walkers. Our experienced staff will also help to turn you into a fundraising expert, and you’ll receive a participant handbook and other materials with plenty of great ideas. Plus, through our online message board, Introduction Meetings, Connection Events and Training Walks, Walkers share ideas and provide incredible support for each other.

    Note: We encourage participants to be creative with their fundraising, but some states have restrictions regarding certain fundraising efforts.  Please check with your local authorities to ensure you are in compliance with the regulations in your area. For example, participants cannot fundraise in Massachusetts by holding raffles and poker tournaments.

  12. Will my Walker Buddy walk with me?
    No, your Walker Buddy is not able to walk with you as he or she will be helping to produce the Event during the Walk weekend. Many Walkers find their own “buddies” to walk with by posting a message on our online message board.

  13. How long will it take to get my handbook and donation coupons?
    Your participant packet which will include your handbook, donation coupons, and t-shirt, should arrive within approximately 10-14 days after registering. If you register at an Introduction Meeting, you’ll get your materials on-site.

  14. What is an Introduction Meeting? Do I have to attend one?
    An Introduction Meeting is a short, informational meeting presented by an Avon Walk staff member. It’s an opportunity to learn all about the Avon Walk event, get answers to any questions that you may have and meet other participants. You can also register and get your materials at these meetings. Introduction Meetings are highly encouraged, but not mandatory. Regularly scheduled meetings are open to all and are posted on this website under the local sections for each event city.

  15. How can I find my Participant ID Number?
    If you register through our website, you'll first see your Participant ID number in the confirmation e-mail you receive after registering. It will also be clearly posted on your “My Avon Walk Center” page. For mail registrants, the packet that you receive with your t-shirt, participant handbook, and coupon book will include a letter that prominently features your participant ID number. If you are in doubt, call your local event office and our staff can look it up for you.

  16. How can I contact my local event office?
    Contact information for each office is posted on each city's home page on the website and all office contacts are listed on the Contact Us page of this site.

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ON THE EVENT

  1. What is Event Eve?
    Event Eve is the Friday afternoon and evening before the Avon Walk begins. It is the true start of the Avon Walk weekend, and the first time the community gathers together. At Event Eve, participants who have not completed our Online Check-In will check in to complete any necessary administrative tasks, turn in any additional donations, and receive their event ID and supplies.  We encourage everyone to join us at Event Eve to meet friends, visit the Avon Walk Shop, learn about our sponsors and beneficiaries, and to get excited for your Avon Walk weekend!

    For Walkers, there are two options for checking-in for the Avon Walk:

    Option 1: Online Check-In - in advance of the weekend
    Walkers who have completed Online Check-In are not required to attend Event Eve as their supplies will be mailed seven days prior to the Avon Walk. An Online Check-In Help Desk will be available for those Walkers who have checked-in online and wish to turn in donations, ask a question, or pick up replacement supplies at Event Eve. Complete details about Online Check-In may be found in your My Avon Walk center online.

     Option 2:  Check-In at Event Eve
    Any Walker who has not completed Online Check-in will need to attend Event Eve to complete any remaining administrative tasks and to pick up their event ID and supplies.

    Crew may complete Online Check-In to select a tent mate and fill out their medical form, but due to the mandatory All-Crew meeting, Crew must attend Event Eve and can pick up their event IDs and supplies at that time.

  2. How far will I have to walk?
    The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer offers a choice of a marathon (26.2 miles) or a marathon and a half (39.3 miles) over a weekend. The total distance you walk is up to you. Some choose to walk at least the distance of a marathon (26.2 miles) over the two days. You can also choose to walk a full marathon on Saturday and another half-marathon (13.1 miles) on Sunday. It’s your choice and you can make up your mind (and change it) right on the spot.

  3. What if I can't walk that far?
    In the event that you need a little help, the route will always be patrolled by vehicles (our "Sweep Vans") to provide assistance when needed.

  4. How is the route laid out?
    Each event starts and ends in the same place*. Our logistical team carefully plans the route and ensures that Rest Stops or Quick Stops are available approximately every 2-3 miles. On Saturday morning, participants leave the starting point after the Opening Ceremony and walk toward the Wellness Village. Those who choose the half marathon distance will end their Saturday journey at approximately 13.1 miles, and take a bus the remaining distance to the Wellness Village. Those who opt for the longer route will continue on for a total of 26.2 miles right into the Wellness Village. On Sunday, everyone walks 13.1 miles from the Wellness Village back to the starting point, covering a mostly different route than the day before.
    *Except Rocky Mountains and Santa Barbara

  5. When will we know what the route is? Why can’t we know ahead of time?
    Though you won't get specific route details prior to the Event, a few months before your event you’ll receive the starting and finishing points and general information on the route in each city. We don’t provide specific route details for several reasons, mostly concerning safety. Though friends and family traveling the route to cheer you on are very well intentioned, extra traffic can mean extra hazards to the Walkers. Your safety is always our number one concern. We will, however, provide you with a list of “cheering stations” so that your friends and family can come out to cheer you and other walkers along at safe and convenient locations on the route.

  6. Where will we spend the night?
    The Wellness Village is your home away from home for Saturday night. No camping experience is required. We'll provide tents that sleep two people - even for the novice camper they are easy to set up! You’ll bring whatever you need to make your tent “interior” comfortable - a sleeping bag, pillow and sleeping pad, if you wish. At the Wellness Village, you can expect basic services to meet your needs: food, hot showers, sinks, medical services, common areas to meet and talk with other participants, opportunities to learn more about breast cancer and related issues. Meet our sponsors and get cool giveaways and some fun entertainment. 

  7. Do I have to spend the night at the Wellness Village?
    We highly recommend it and hope you will. The time spent relaxing in the Wellness Village is an essential part of the Walk experience and your chance to get to know some of the other participants. Staying in the Wellness Village will help you see the full magnitude of the Event and enjoy a unique camaraderie with thousands of women and men who share your commitment to the breast cancer cause. For those choosing to leave the event for the evening, you can purchase a non-camping shuttle pass for $20.

  8. Can I just walk the marathon in one day and then leave?
    This is a weekend event which takes place over both a Saturday and a Sunday. Participants may choose whether they walk 26.2 miles or 39.3 miles over the course of the two days, but commitment to the full weekend is an important part of the Event, and we hope you’ll decide to participate for the Event’s duration, including both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

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CREW MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS

  1. What’s the difference between a Crew member and a Volunteer?
    If you join as a Crew Member, you are a registered participant and pay the $65 registration fee. You’ll make a commitment to participate in your assigned role for the entire Walk weekend, including camping in our Wellness Village. You should also be able to attend at least one Crew Introduction and Training meeting (there are more than 10 scheduled in each city before the Event) and commit to attending the Crew Training Day (held about 4-6 weeks prior to your Event). Telephone meetings can be set up for Crew members outside the immediate area.

    The Crew is essential to making the Event run smoothly. Crew members are not required to raise funds, but many choose to and prove to be fantastic fundraisers! There’s even a fundraising rewards program for the Crew.

    Volunteers, throughout the Event weekend, commit to a shorter period of time and do not stay overnight. In addition, we need volunteers in our event offices during the months leading up to the Walk and at Event Eve for check-in duties. Volunteers do not actually register for the Walk. Volunteer opportunities can be found in the local events sections on this website.

  2. What do Crew members do?
    As the Walk’s support system, Crew members perform numerous (and varied) jobs on the Event that are essential to its success. They do everything from marking the route to picking up trash to setting up rest stops to pouring water, and everything in between. Check the Crew section of this website for specifics.

  3. What do Volunteers do?
    On the Event, volunteers will work shorter shifts on Friday (Event Eve), Saturday or Sunday. Depending on how much time you can commit to the Walk, your job will vary throughout the weekend to cover the areas wherever support people are needed most. Many volunteers are also needed in the months leading up to the Event to support our staff in contacting Walkers, organizing events, leading Training Walks, etc.

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FUNDRAISING

Note: We encourage participants to be creative with their fundraising, but some states have restrictions regarding certain fundraising efforts.  Please check with your local authorities to ensure you are in compliance with the regulations in your area. For example, participants cannot fundraise in Massachusetts by holding raffles and poker tournaments.

  1. As a Walker, how much money do I have to raise in order to participate in the Avon Walk?
    Each Walker commits to raising a minimum of $1,800 in donations.

  2. What happens if I can't raise $1,800? Do I have to donate the money myself?
    In the event that you don't reach the $1,800 commitment by Event Eve (the day before the Walk starts), you have three different options: (1) You may choose to use a credit card to make a deferred commitment to cover the outstanding amount. Your card will not be charged for at least two months after the Event, during which time you can continue to fundraise. If you don't reach the $1,800 minimum in that time, you will be contacted by the Avon Foundation to make arrangements for payment of any outstanding balance. (2) You may choose not to participate (and we hope you won't pick this one!). The money that you've already raised will still benefit the Avon Foundation's Breast Cancer Crusade and you will not be responsible for raising additional funds to meet the minimum. (3) You may choose to convert from a Walker to a volunteer or Crew member, as long as there are still crew positions available.

  3. Why are Walkers required to raise $1,800? Wouldn’t more people walk if they didn’t have to raise so much money?
    The goal of the Avon Walk is to raise as much money as possible to provide access to care and fund research leading to a cure for breast cancer. While we might have more people involved with a lower fundraising commitment (or no fundraising at all), the Walk is organized so that a manageable number of people can participate in the weekend while simultaneously yielding a high amount of donations going to the cause. The complexity of the Avon Walks requires a structure different than other events of a shorter distance or time. Many different types of events have proven successful in raising money for breast cancer and we’re glad so many opportunities exist for people to get involved, in some way, to battle this disease.

  4. Is my $65 Registration Fee counted towards my minimum donation?
    No, the $65 Registration Fee does not count towards the fundraising minimum. The non-refundable Registration Fee covers the costs associated with processing your registration and the materials you receive throughout your preparation for the Event. The Registration Fee is not tax-deductible.

  5. If I can’t walk, can my donors get their money back?
    All donations are non-refundable. The money you’ve raised will go to work in the community helping those affected by breast cancer.

  6. Can my donors get tax receipts?
    Most donors use either their credit card receipts or cancelled checks as donation receipts. Online donors will receive an e-mail confirming their gift and will also be directed to a printable confirmation page when their donation is complete. As required by the IRS, anyone making a single donation of $250 or more will receive a hard-copy receipt directly from the Avon Foundation. For more information please complete the tax receipt request form.

  7. Will my donors be contacted by the Avon Walk or anyone else?
    Donor names and contact information will never be sold or shared beyond the Avon Foundation. Donors may occasionally receive information from the Avon Foundation about how their donations are being used to fight breast cancer.

    Donors will always have the opportunity to “opt out” of any and all communications.

  8. Can I collect donations in foreign currency?
    Yes. Credit card and check donations received in foreign currency will be converted at the bank rate at the time they are processed. All donation amounts are credited to Walker accounts in U.S. dollars.

  9. Can a donation form be posted on the website to download?
    Instead of a donation form, we use donation coupon books that are part of an automated processing system that enables us to save money on processing costs. Because of this system, your coupons are unique to you and can't be photocopied or used by others.

    There are two types of donation coupons:

    • Online donation coupons are accessible via your participant center on your personal webpage. You can print them directly from your webpage and send them to the Donation Office along with each donation. Online donation coupons are NOT allowed to be used when splitting a donation. Learn more about this when you read about your Team Program.
    • Once you register, you will receive a coupon booklet containing coupons with a coupon number unique to you. Please note: this number is different from the number contained on your online coupons. This is why it is pertinent that you always include your participant number on each and every coupon you submit with your donations. It is important to follow all the directions printed on the coupon booklet and return envelopes that you will receive upon registering so that your account is credited quickly and accurately.
  10. Why can’t I use my friend’s coupons when mine run out?
    Your coupon is uniquely coded for you to make sure that your donations get to your account. If you use your friend’s coupon the donation will be credited to your friend’s account and not yours.

  11. How do I get more coupon books?
    Just ask your Walker Buddy or local Event office.

  12. Do you accept donations by check?
    Yes. Checks should be made payable to "Avon Walk for Breast Cancer" and should include your participant ID number on the check. You should mail check donations, along with your completed donation coupons, to the address on the back of the coupon.

  13. Can you accept checks made payable to anything but “Avon Walk for Breast Cancer”?
    If the check is made payable to you or your team, please endorse the check on the back, along with your signature, with “For deposit only payable to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer”. If the check is made out to another charity we will not be able to cash the check. Please contact your donor and ask them to write a new check.

  14. Can we submit donations in cash?
    No, we cannot accept cash donations. Most Walkers who receive donations in cash will write a check or purchase a money order to submit the donation, with the name and address of the donor included on the coupon so that they are credited for the donation.

  15. Can I overnight my donations to the bank?
    Unfortunately, no. Donations go directly to a bank P.O. Box, which cannot accept Fed Ex, UPS, DHL, USPS or any other overnight delivery service.

  16. What if I do not include a coupon with my donation?
    It is likely that the donation will not be properly credited to your fundraising account.

  17. How long does it take for donations to be posted to my Personal Page?
    Credit card donations made via the website are posted immediately. Check and/or credit card donations submitted via mail will be posted within three weeks of their mailing date if coupon instructions are correctly followed. Any missing information or incorrect use of coupon will delay the process.

  18. How will I know when I receive offline donations?
    They’ll be posted in the “honor roll” section of your personal webpage, just like online donations. Your Walker Buddy can also give you a current update of your donation account.

  19. How do we get credited for matching gifts from our donors’ employers?
    Matching gift forms from the Company should be completed and sent to:

    Avon Foundation
    P.O. Box 1073
    Rye, NY 10580
    Attn: Matching GIfts

    Matching gift amounts will only be credited to your account once the check has been received from the company, which in some cases can take quite a bit of time. Please include the Walker’s name and participant ID number on the form.

  20. Do matching gifts count towards my fundraising minimum?
    Matching gifts will count towards your fundraising minimum if they are received and processed by the bank prior to Event Eve. It is important not to rely on these funds since many companies have unique policies on matching gifts and vary in processing time. Once received by the Avon Foundation, matching gift forms are processed within 48-72 hours; once confirmation of original gift is made, the forms are mailed immediately to the matching gift company. We cannot guarantee the amount of time it takes for a Company to approve the request forms, process the matching gift, and cut checks to the Foundation. Please contact your company for more information.

  21. What is the Avon Foundation tax ID number?
    The Avon Foundation tax ID number is 13-6128447.

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THE AVON FOUNDATION

  1. What is the Avon Foundation for Women?
    The Avon Foundation for Women, a 501(c)(3) public charity, was founded in 1955 to improve the lives of women and their families, and Avon philanthropic programs worldwide have raised and awarded more than $725 million. Now past the half century milestone, the Avon Foundation brings this mission to life through two key areas: breast cancer and domestic violence. The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade launched in 1992, and Avon breast cancer programs in some 50 countries support advancing access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer, with a focus on the medically underserved. Funding is awarded to beneficiaries ranging from leading cancer centers to community-based breast health programs for awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and scientific research.  Fundraising is through a variety of “pink ribbon” products, events, races and walks around the world. The largest is the U.S. Avon Walk for Breast Cancer series, which began in 2003. For more information on the Avon Foundation visit http://www.avonfoundation.org/.

  2. What is the Avon Foundation’s role in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer?
    The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer series is a project of the Avon Foundation for Women. The Foundation is the sole producer of the Events, responsible for overseeing all marketing, logistics, finances, cost controls, and all the other details of the Events.

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FUNDS RAISED BY THE AVON WALK FOR BREAST CANCER

  1. Exactly where does the money go, and who makes those decisions?
    The Avon Foundation for Women has implemented a sophisticated and comprehensive need-based philanthropic strategy that addresses every facet of the disease. Recognizing the complexity of the problem of breast cancer among all groups of women, the Avon Foundation is distinguished from most other donors that fund a single institution or scientific investigator by supporting a national network of research, medical, social service and community-based organizations, each of which is making a unique contribution to helping patients or advancing breast cancer research. The Avon Foundation awards funding in breast cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, support services and scientific research, including prevention and therapeutic vaccine studies.

    Breast cancer beneficiaries which range from leading cancer centers to community-based, non-profit breast health programs are selected through a rigorous review process that includes the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade Scientific Advisory Board and the Avon Foundation Board of Directors. Programs and institutions must satisfy strict criteria that align with the Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade's mission of funding access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer. The Foundation makes grants only to organizations and institutions having tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. A majority of the net proceeds raised through the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer will stay with breast cancer programs in the geographic areas where the Walks are held.

    A detailed listing of benefiting organizations can be found at http://www.avonfoundation.org/.

    Details of some of the initial funding announcements at past Avon Walks can be found on our website  in the Press Center.

  2. How much money is returned to the cause?
    Total Avon Foundation revenue in 2009 was $73.7 million.  Expenditures, including grants for breast cancer, domestic violence and other programs, exceeded $73.7 million.  Of total expenditures for the year:
    • 71% was directed to mission programs and services, including grants, gifts and awards to beneficiary organizations  (this is what is commonly referred to as “net return” to the cause)
    • 3% covered management and general activities
    • 26% covered fundraising expenses

    These results exceed philanthropic fundraising guidelines.
     
    Funds are awarded for access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer, including funding for education and awareness; screening and diagnosis; support services; access to clinical care; and research, all with a focus on the medically underserved.

  3. How much money have the Avon Walks already raised?
    From 2003-2009, the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer event series coast-to-coast has raised more than $345 million.

  4. Why is the funding announced at Walk Closing Ceremonies less than the total raised?
    At the Closing Ceremony of each Avon Walk, the Avon Foundation announces financial gifts that have been reviewed and approved by the Avon Foundation Board in advance, before final fundraising is known.  These initial gifts are awarded to organizations and institutions in the Avon Walk geographic area to show you how your hard-earned dollars are being put to good use immediately. Any additional monies raised by each Walk, along with funds raised by other Avon Foundation activities, are combined and granted to breast cancer organizations throughout the country on an ongoing basis. For more information on the Avon Foundation’s granting process, please visit http://www.avoncompany.com/women/avonfoundation/gapeop.html or for specific questions contact info@avonfoundation.org.

  5. Will any of the money raised go towards research that uses animal testing?
    No. Effective November 1, 2001, the policy of the Avon Foundation is that no Avon Breast Cancer Crusade funds will be used to support breast cancer research projects involving the use of animals.

  6. Why do the grants made each year by the Avon Foundation not match the funds raised?
    The new grants awarded within each calendar year do not necessarily match the total funds raised within that time frame due to the Avon Foundation grantmaking process, which includes many grants, commitments and payment schedules that cover multiple years.

    As a result of our multiyear focus and planning, funds raised and grants given in any single year will rarely be equal, with some years having more receipts, like 2004, and other years having greater disbursements, like 2003.

    In addition, it is appropriate and a standard practice for foundations to hold some funds in reserve. It would not be prudent to “spend down” all income and leave none for unanticipated grantmaking opportunities.

    In all grantmaking and funds management, the Avon Foundation goal is to be prudent and effective, and use the Avon Walk funds raised in the best way to support access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer.

  7. How much support does the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer receive from the Avon company?
    The Avon Walk series is produced and managed by the Avon Foundation for Women, a 501(c)(3) charity that was founded in 1955. The Avon Foundation is fortunate to receive support of the Avon Products, Inc. corporation in all of our endeavors, including the Avon Walks. The fees for the logistical producer and marketing consultant for the Avon Walks are paid by Avon Products, Inc., not drawn from funds raised, and the Avon corporation also makes significant contributions to the marketing and advertising expenses. Avon Products also supports the Avon Walks with full-time corporate-salaried staff in a wide variety of disciplines, on-site personnel at the events and gratis Avon products for every participant.

    Avon also pays for salaries, expenses and costs of running the Avon Foundation. The Foundation manages and disburses the funds raised through many programs for breast cancer, domestic violence and special emergency relief. The Foundation also disburses millions of dollars in funds provided directly by Avon Products, Inc. to support scholarships and domestic violence programs. In 2009, the total Avon Products, Inc. commitment to the Avon Foundation mission and administration was approximately $21 million.

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