Frequently asked questions
How many are on the team this year?
In total there are 114 CFC members from across Canada.
How many team members do you have from cities other than Edmonton?
There are 70 members from Edmonton, with the next largest representation from Ontario with 15, B.C. with 15, and Winnipeg with 10 and Halifax with 4.
How many people do you allow on your team?
There are no limits to the number of team members (because registering for IMC is difficult, we compete every second year which allows new team members a chance to register and a chance to plan their fundraising events). The team will compete again in 2012. We welcome anyone who is willing to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society either through direct donations, volunteering or any combination.
Do you have to be a member of a police service to become a team member?
Not at all – currently the split is 40% police service employees and 60% civilians.
Do you have to be a serious competitor to be on the team?
No – Completion of the Ironman is an individual challenge. Just wanting to help those with cancer and trying to cross the finish line is what we are all about. Finishing in 9 hours or 17 hours, we are all trying to help eradicate cancer.
What
How much has each member contributed?
Each member on average raises approximately $5,000. Some have had even better success.
How much does each member have to raise?
While we track individual contributions, we don’t put any boundaries on the amount that each individual needs to raise. We do however have a planning process in place that will allow each member to develop a contribution plan and track their progress against the plan.
Contributions come in the form of money and volunteer time. Throughout the year we have numerous events that individuals can volunteer at that raise significant dollars for the Canadian Cancer Society. Ie: BBQ’s, Auctions, Selling 50/50’s at sporting events, head shaves at local schools etc. There are endless opportunities to assist in the raising of donations.
What is the main purpose of the Cops for Cancer team?
It is the Police and the community working together to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society while at the same time enjoying the spirit of competition and the rewards of accomplishment.
All money raised is donated to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Do I have to compete in the Ironman to be a member of the team?
Not at all. We welcome members who just want to be part of a great organization with a common fundraising goal. Some of our team members sign up specifically just to fundraise and not compete at all. Some members compete at shorter distance triathlons, and others may set the Canadian Ironman as the goal for fundraising.
How much does each member have to contribute?
That varies depending on each individual’s abilities and resources. However we encourage all members to do the best they can and to set a goal of raising a minimum of $5,000.
Where does the money go?
All donations are turned over to the Canadian Cancer Society and go towards research, reliable cancer information services, prevention education initiatives, advocacy for healthy public policy and supportive care services for people living with cancer.
Does the money go to support the team?
No – Team members are required to support their own efforts.
Would I be required to contribute a certain number of hours each week/month/year?
No, but we do have a process in place that will allow members to track their progress toward both fundraising and volunteer efforts.
We typically have 1 team meeting per month where we update members on fundraising initiatives and plan upcoming training sessions.
What other events do you guys do other than IMC?
Team members have done fundraisers with the local schools. A very successful partnership has been with local schools and the team. Bike a thons are a great community effort and have produced some amazing fundraising results. We have done silent auctions, dunk tanks, hosted concerts, gathered pledges and various other initiatives.
Do I have to shave my head?
No – Headshaves are often done as part of a fundraising event, and have been very successful in raising money for the cause. There is no requirement to shave your head to be part of the team, unless you want to swim faster, and look cooler, then go for it.
When
When did the Cops for Cancer program start?
Inspired by a young boy that has lost his hair through chemotherapy, Garry Goulet of the Edmonton Police Force, in 1994, initiated a fundraising effort to raise funds for cancer research. In 1995 the Cops for Cancer Campaign kicked off. The original focus was to raise funds through police officers shaving their heads. Various members of the force got donations and shaved their heads in support of the cause. Since those early days, the group has been recognized for it’s efforts across Canada, with each year gaining even greater support. The complete story is available on the website at www.ironcopsforcancer.com.
When will you be starting up the next CFC team?
The 2010 team has been established and we hope to have a great turnout at IMC 2010 and of course we all hope to finish. We always welcome new members, but unfortunately they will not be able to compete at IMC 2010 as the race is already full.
How often do you get together as a team?
Typically we have Edmonton team meetings once per month, other locations have their own schedules for getting together. Other than that many team members will get together for training and social events.
How
How much have you raised so far this year?
We have raised over $400,000 so far this year.
How much have you raised since the inception of CFC?
Since 1994 over $22 Million across Canada has been raised through various Cops for Cancer fundraising efforts.
How do I get involved?
Please refer to the website at www.ironteam.ca for more information and key contacts in your area.
How do I donate?
you can conact us directly or make a donation online by following this link: ONLINE DONATION
E-mail: info@ironteam.ca