35 msfocusmagazine.org Want to Plan Your Own Fundraiser? To get help creating your own event to support people with MS, contact the MS Focus Corporate Relations Marketing Coordinator Rob Beasley at rbeasley@msfocus.org or call 800-225-6495. Q: How did you reach out to the people involved? A: When I heard Whey Jennings, I thought, “I have to contact him.” I called and emailed and I kept asking. I explained where the help is going and he came through for us. Our local Highway 64 Gym Bar & Grill was a huge help. They sponsored the entire show. I called local newspapers and radio stations, and then emailed them the information. They advertise local events. I’m not scared to ask in an email. I’m shy in person so I get a good response from emails. Q: What did you learn from the process of creating this event? A: I learned to have something for kids too, because so many different people show up. Luckily Highway 64 Gym brought out a free ice cream truck and that was a big hit with the kids. I learned it’s also a good idea to bring in local entertainers because they have a lot of community support. Q: What would you tell others about your experience? A: Do lots of advertising! Don’t be shy about contacting people. All you have to do is ask. It doesn’t take a long time. Q: What was the most rewarding part of this experience? A: I had one lady who has cancer who wrote on social media how much she enjoyed our concerts and that she looks forward to them every year.