Frequently Asked Questions
Event Details
When: Saturday, May 6, 2023
Where: Dos Vientos Park, in the beautiful Conejo Valley, OR participate virtually from wherever you are!
For any other questions, please contact the SoCal Ride and Rally Staff at socalride@ridetodefeatals.org.
Registration
How do I register?
You can register online in three ways:
- Join a Team -- If you are joining an existing team that a friend started, you can search for your team and register yourself here.
- Start a Team -- If you plan to captain a new (or new to 2023) team and are ready to get the wheels rolling, get started here.
- Join as an Individual -- If you are signing up on your own, you can get started here.
What are the costs involved?
Each participant will pay a registration fee to secure their place in the SoCal Ride and Rally to Defeat ALS. This registration fee helps to pay for the expenses incurred to participate in the event (personal webpage set up, food and support on ride day, permitting of routes, etc.).
All Riders:
February 1 - March 31: $55
April 1 - April 30: $70
May 1 - May 3: $85
Day-of Event: $125
Hike Registration:
February 1 - March 31: $35
April 1 - April 30: $45
May 1 - 3: $50
Day-of Event: $60
Park Walk Registration:
February 1 - March 31: $20
April 1 - May 3: $30
Day-of Event: $40
Persons with ALS and Caregivers: Free, please contact socalride@ridetodefeatALS.org for discount code.
Virtual Participants (those unable to attend the in-person event): Free
Children Under 12:
$30 when you enter discount code CHILD at registration (only applicable to children 12 years old and younger, registering to ride)
Do I have to fundraise?
It is suggested that participants 18 years and older fundraise a minimum of $150, not including the registration fee, by the day of the event. If you are a first-time fundraiser or are interested in learning more, check out our Fundraising Tips and Tools. Our staff is another resource for you and we will be here for you at every step of the way! Don’t hesitate to reach out and we can come up with a fundraising plan together!
What happens if I am not able to raise $150 by event-day?
We have a solution for that! We will give you another six weeks following the event to raise the remaining balance to reach $150. A lot of donors are moved to give after seeing photos and hearing about your experience at our event to make a difference in the lives of people with ALS. Ultimately, if you do not reach our suggested minimum we will not penalize you for it, but we appreciate your sincere effort as the funds you raise directly support The ALS Association Golden West Chapter's efforts to find effective treatments and cures for ALS.
My friends might start a team, can I register as an individual now and switch to their team later?
Of course! We can easily move you onto a team if you choose. Just send us an email us.
Do I have to join a team?
No. You can participate as an individual or on a team! Whatever works best for you.
If others on my team raise more than $150 can that count toward my minimum?
No. Each individual is responsible for raising the $150 minimum that is reflected on their personal fundraising page and we are unable to transfer funds.
Event Logistics
When does the Event start?
Please check back for our official Event-Day Schedule.
Is there a deadline for online registration? If so, will there be Event Day registration?
Yes, the deadline to register online is Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at Midnight.
Can I participate in the SoCal Ride and Rally to Defeat ALS if I am under 18?
Yes, all ages are welcome. Participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their participation waiver during registration.
What if my family or friends want to join me?
The more the merrier! In fact, why not start a team? If your family and friends just want to attend as spectators, of course they are more than welcome to.
What happens if the SoCal Ride and Rally to Defeat ALS has to transition into a virtual event?
In the event that the SoCal Ride and Rally to Defeat ALS has to transition into a virtual event, your registration fee will turn into a much-needed donation for the Golden West Chapter of The ALS Association and will also count toward your fundraising total (and earning our awesome SoCal Ride and Rally incentive items!). If this happens, Golden West Chapter Staff will work with all participants to help you find a fun and inspirational way to participate your way on Saturday, May 6!.
Route Details
What are the route options*?
Will there be SAG (support and gear) vehicle support* on the course?
Yes. They will be patrolling routes and will be able to support and/or transport cyclists in need.
How many rest stops* will there be? How far apart are they?
We will have a rest stop every 13-18 miles apart.
*Subject to change
Fundraising and Financial Questions
What is the deductibility of my donors' contribution?
The ALS Association Golden West Chapter is an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. Registration fees are not accepted as tax deductible.
What is the Ride to Defeat ALS's Tax ID?
We will be using the Tax ID for The ALS Association Golden West Chapter, which is 95-4163338.
How do I turn in donations made by cash or check?
Please download the donation form and include it to ensure we give your team full credit for your fundraising efforts. You can mail your donations to the Golden West Chapter office:
The ALS Association Golden West Chapter
Attn: SoCal Ride and Rally to Defeat ALS
PO Box 7082
Woodland Hills, CA 91365
Is it safe to mail cash?
It is NOT safe to mail cash. If you would prefer to convert it to a check to mail to the office, please include the donation form so that we can mail acknowledgment letters to your supporters.
What if my donors need a receipt?
Donors who make an online donation via our website will receive an email confirmation that can be used for tax purposes. Those who send checks valued $100 or more will receive a thank you letter by mail that can be used for tax purposes. If you have a donor who needs a receipt, please let us know and we will be happy to provide one. Also, if you turn in donations within 2 weeks before or after the event, please let us know if one of those donors needs a receipt.
Do matching gifts count?
Yes! Employer matching gifts are a great way to double your fundraising. For detailed information about matching gifts, please click here.
Where does the money go?
We work hard to make sure every dollar you donate has maximum impact on the fight against ALS. From patient programs to cutting-edge research, your fundraising efforts for the SoCal Ride and Rally to Defeat ALS will never go to waste. We pride ourselves in functioning with a high standard of efficiency. Click here to learn more.
Your Personal Page
What is a Personal Page?
Your Personal Page is an online promotional tool to use when asking your friends and family to join your team or make a donation. Once you're registered, a personal page is automatically created for you. You can customize this page with photos and your personal story by logging into your Participant Center. Our staff is here to help you every step of the way.
How do I login to my Participant Center?
To login to your Participant Center, you will enter your username and password into the Participant Center Login Area at the top right of the Event’s website. Once you’ve entered your username and password, you will be taken to the homepage of your Participant Center.
What if I forget my username or password?
If you do not remember your username that you set up during registration, just contact our staff and they can look it up for you. If you do not remember your password, the link under the login area will help you reset your password or you can always give us a call!
Do I have to change my Personal Page?
You don't have to, but we know from experience that the participant’s personal touch makes the page more compelling to prospective donors. Be creative and have fun with it. Please know we are here to help you do this.
How do I change my personal fundraising goal?
Login to your Participant Center. At the top of that page, you'll see your current goal and a link to change it directly below it. Or you can contact us and we can do it for you.
How can I see who has donated on my behalf?
Login to your Participant Center. Click the Progress tab at the top of the page, then scroll down to view your donor list. You can also download a list of your supporters from this page.
How can I see who is on my team?
Login to your Participant Center, then click on “View Team Roster” from the navigation on the right side of the page.
For any other questions, please contact the SoCal Ride and Rally Staff at socalride@ridetodefeatALS.org.