What happens if Hikers do not reach the 100 Hole Hike fundraising goal?

Each 100 Hole Hike location sets its own minimum fundraising goal to participate. If you’re worried about reaching your goal, don’t go it alone—Youth on Course provides resources, coaching tips, and tools (like pledges and employer matching gifts) to help you get there. If you have concerns, contact us early so we can problem‑solve together.

Overview

Fundraising can feel intimidating, especially the first time. That’s why Youth on Course sets clear, site‑specific minimums and offers hands‑on support from registration onward. Your effort fuels affordable access to golf—$5‑or‑less rounds, internships, and scholarships—so we’ll equip you with practical ways to rally your community.

This article speaks to: first‑time and returning hikers, team captains/corporate groups, and supporters.

Who This Is For

• First‑timers learning how minimums work and how to plan outreach.
• Returning hikers setting a stretch goal at a new site.
• Team captains/corporate groups coordinating combined goals and matches.

Why People Choose Youth on Course

• Real impact: Every dollar expands access and opportunity for young people.
• Structured support: Templates, tips, and pledge tools help you succeed.
• Flexible options: Locations offer different minimum goal tiers so you can pick the best fit.

How It Works

1. Minimums are site‑specific
   Each host location sets a participation minimum. 
2. Pick the site that fits your plan
   Choose a location whose minimum aligns with your network size, timeline, and fundraising strategy.
3. Use the tools that work
   • Pledges (optional): Donors can add milestone‑based pledges after their initial gift (e.g., for a hole‑in‑one or finishing all 100 holes).
   • Employer matching gifts: Ask supporters if their companies match.
   • Team formats: Consider even split, relay, or tag‑in/tag‑out to combine networks and momentum.
   • Custom Thank You in the app: Encourage donors to opt into pledges on the post‑donation screen.
4. If you’re behind pace
   Reach out early—we can offer message templates, matching‑gift scripts, and timeline adjustments to help.

When to Get Involved

• At registration: Confirm your site’s minimum and set a public goal.
• 2–4 weeks out: Launch a push (email + social + texts); ask for first gifts and matches.
• Final week: Share progress updates, a countdown, and a clear “help me cross the line” ask.

Helpful Tips

• Start with your inner circle (family, close friends, colleagues). Early gifts create momentum.
• Share a 3‑sentence “why I hike”—authentic stories raise more.
• Post short updates (photo + progress) 2–3x/week; thank donors publicly.
• Offer simple pledge prompts (e.g., “$25 if I birdie a par‑3,” “$100 when I hit 100 holes”).

If You’re Still Concerned

• Email 100holehike@youthoncourse.org as soon as possible. We want you to succeed and can help you map a plan tailored to your timeline, network size, and site minimum.

Next Steps

• Confirm your site’s minimum and set your public goal.
• Map your first 25 asks (family, friends, coworkers) and send them this week.
• Turn on pledges via your Custom Thank You and promote employer matches.
• Questions or coaching? Write 100holehike@youthoncourse.org—we’re here to help.