Fund-raising reality
Runners who occupy not-for-profit leadership positions often urge their organizations to produce races as fund-raising events. Unfortunately, runners are not always familiar with the economics of races and don't realize that entry fees do not cover costs. Many races lose money all of the time.
Most race participants are not aware of, or even interested in, the fund-raising cause promoted by the race. They just want to run. That's OK. Runners' participation can build the public profile of the race so it will be more attractive to donors, sponsors, and community supporters.
Always think and act strategically when producing any kind of athletic event, and don't think of everyone as a contributor.
Blue Mountain Wildlife, Inc., in Hamburg PA, is holding running events to raise funds for its charitable mission. Hopefully, these events will attract contributions from supporters even if they don't want to run on the beautiful trails of the northern Berks.