Build your pledge sheet
Nothing you type is stored or sent anywhere.
What's on the sheet, and why
| Section | Why it's there |
|---|---|
| Cause at the top | Sponsors give to something specific (“new library books”), not to “the school”. |
| Walker, grade and teacher | Lost sheets find their way back, and totals land in the right class for prizes. |
| One-line pledge explanation | Per-lap vs. flat is a common source of confusion. Settle it before they write. |
| Maximum column | Per-lap sponsors agree more readily when they can cap the total. |
| Contact column | You need it to send per-lap totals after the walk. |
| Paid checkbox and total | Makes reconciliation possible when the sheet comes back. |
| Return date and how to pay | Without a deadline and instructions, pledges drift. |
Using paper pledge sheets well
- Pair paper with an online option. Paper reaches neighbors and grandparents nearby; a link reaches family far away. The pledges guide compares the two.
- Send it with the kickoff letter. The parent letter template tells families what to do with it.
- Collect cash and checks safely. Envelopes labeled with the walker's name, two adults counting together, and same-day deposits. See handling cash and checks.
- Bill per-lap pledges promptly. After the walk, use the pledge calculator to total each sponsor, then send the per-lap total message.
Counting laps for per-lap pledges? Print matching lap cards. For the whole plan, start with how to run a walk-a-thon.
Frequently asked questions
What should a walk-a-thon pledge sheet include?
The organization, event name, walk date and cause at the top; the walker's name and class; a one-line explanation of flat versus per-lap pledges; sponsor rows with name, contact, pledge amount, maximum, total due and a paid checkbox; the return date; and clear payment instructions.
Should our pledge sheet offer per-lap pledges?
Offer per-lap pledges if you will count laps accurately and follow up after the event. If not, a flat-donation sheet is simpler to collect. The 'both' option lets close family pledge per lap while most sponsors give a flat amount.
Can I email the pledge sheet instead of printing it?
Yes. Choose 'Save as PDF' in the print dialog to get a file you can email or post to your school app. Families can print it at home or fill it in on paper and send a photo.