Volunteers struggle to count laps accurately
At a crowded fun run, volunteers marking tally sheets lose track of individual runners. Disputed counts lead to frustrated parents and awkward conversations about pledge totals.
Run-a-thon fundraising
Pledge collection and result tracking for fun runs
Set up per-lap or per-mile pledges for your run-a-thon, give every runner a personal fundraising page, enter results after the event, and let HometownLift handle payment collection.
The challenge
What makes this fundraising harder than it should be
Payment follow-up falls on coaches
After the run, coaches inherit a stack of pledge forms and a list of phone numbers. Calling and texting supporters to collect payments is time they should be spending on practice.
Registration and pledges are disconnected
Sign-up happens on one form, pledges on another, and results on a third. Organizers stitch together three separate data sources to figure out who owes what.
Short fundraising window limits donations
When the only way to pledge is in person before the race, you miss supporters who would have contributed if they had a few more days and an easy online option.
The HometownLift approach
One system for pledges, results, and payment collection
Per-lap pledges collected online before the run
Each runner shares a personal page where supporters pledge a dollar amount per lap. Pledges come in over days or weeks, not just on race day. The link works on any phone or computer.
Result entry triggers automatic invoicing
After the event, the organizer enters each runner's lap count. HometownLift multiplies pledges by laps and sends every supporter a payment email with the exact amount owed and a link to pay.
Individual runner pages with progress tracking
Every runner gets a page showing their name, fundraising goal, and how much they have raised. Families share the link via text and social media to reach supporters near and far.
Combined pledge and flat-donation support
Some supporters prefer to give a set amount rather than pledge per lap. HometownLift accepts both on the same page, so no one is turned away by the pledge format.
FAQ
Common questions
How do we enter lap results after the race?
Log into the HometownLift dashboard, go to the campaign, and enter each runner's final lap count. The system calculates pledge totals and queues payment emails automatically.
Can we use this for a color run or obstacle course?
Yes. Any running event where participants complete laps, legs, or a measured distance works with the per-unit pledge system. The unit label (laps, miles, legs) is configurable.
What if a supporter does not pay after the run?
HometownLift sends a payment email with a direct link. If the supporter does not pay, organizers can see outstanding pledges in the dashboard. There is no obligation to chase unpaid pledges, and no cost is incurred for uncollected amounts.
Is there a fee to the running club or school?
No subscription or setup fee. A 5% platform fee plus card processing is added at checkout and paid by the donor. The organization receives the full gift amount.
Explore more
Ready to get started?