Sponsorships focus on asking individuals or organizations for money. Potential sponsors include large and small businesses, corporations, and local civic and service organizations such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, or Jaycees. Also consider individuals such as family members, friends, neighbors, and people you see regularly, including your coach, youth group leader, doctor, dentist, barber or hair stylist.

Athletes, please stay current with the fund-raising guidelines of all local, state and national sports governing bodies. If you have any questions, please contact those respective governing bodies.

Before you begin, ask yourself why people should help sponsor you on this program. If you can explain to others what makes you and People to People unique, you might be able to motivate potential givers. Knowing yourself and the history of your program can create a personal sense of investment in your activity.

• Organize your thoughts. Use the planning worksheet. Gather information on your specific destination, why you are going, your goals, what you hope to gain from the experience, personal information on your interests, accomplishments and activities. You’ll use this information to personalize your sponsorship letter and resumé. It will also help you during your presentation.
  
  

• Create a financial statement. Make a list of all your expenses including tuition, airfare and spending money. Then list the amount you wish to receive from each sponsor and how many sponsors you will need to meet that goal.
  
  

• Make a contact list. Use the sponsor worksheets to list potential people, companies, and/or organizations you plan on contacting.
  
  

• Do something for your sponsor. How about a postcard or a presentation?