How to Search for a Living Kidney Donor at Events
When you are looking for a living kidney donor, attending events and gatherings can be a great way to spread awareness and connect with potential donors. Follow these tips to help increase your chances of finding a donor at an event.
1. Contact the Event Organizers
Before attending the event, reach out to the event organizers and volunteers:
- Obtain Permission: It’s always a good idea to let the organizers of an event know that you will be speaking to attendees about your kidney donor search. If the event is membership-based, check to make sure you are allowed to attend.
- Seek Opportunities: Ask if you can make a brief announcement or set up a booth to share information about kidney donation.
- Build Partnerships: Work with organizers to reach a broader audience and explore other ways to collaborate for awareness.
2. Prepare Your Message
Make sure you have a clearly defined message to share at the event. Focus on explaining the importance of kidney donation and how it could change your life. Practice a concise, compelling pitch that includes:
- Your Story: Share your personal journey and the impact of a kidney donation on your life.
- Your Need: Explain the urgency and medical necessity for a kidney transplant.
- How to Help: Provide clear instructions on how attendees can get involved, whether by registering as a donor or sharing your message with others.
3. Bring Print Materials
Create and bring informative materials to hand out to anyone who might be interested in your story. This can include:
- Your business card: Every microsite patient receives 250 business cards with their name and microsite details. Be sure to bring them to every event and hand them out.
- Information sheets: FindAKidney.com has created a Facts About Living Kidney Donation information sheet for potential donors that can be printed in color or black and white. It can be downloaded by clicking the link above, and is also available on the Resources page. As the sheet is not personalized, you may wish to write your name and microsite address at the top of the sheet to ensure that anyone who wants to register as your donor can do so through your microsite. You can also have a personalized stamp made for this purpose.
- Printout of your microsite: While your business cards provide the address of your microsite, you may also wish to print your microsite page so people can see the photos and read your story without having to go online.
4. Engage with Attendees
When interacting with event attendees:
- Be Approachable: Be friendly and start conversations in a warm, relaxed way.
- Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for support directly. Some may be willing to help but need a little encouragement or guidance.
- Listen and Respond: Be ready to answer questions and provide additional information about kidney donation and the transplant process.
5. Leverage Social Media
Use social media to complement your in-person efforts. Before the event:
- Promote Your Presence: Announce on social media that you will be attending and encourage people to meet you there.
- Share Updates: Post updates during and after the event to keep your network informed and engaged.
6. Follow Up
After the event:
- Reach Out: Contact people who showed interest or expressed willingness to help. Send them a thank-you note or email and some additional information, including a link to your microsite and the NKR website (www.kidneyregistry.com).
- Maintain Relationships: Keep your supporters updated on your journey and progress. Building long-term relationships can lead to continued support and advocacy.