FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? We’ve got answers. If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, contact your local Big Climb staff for assistance.
Registration
How much does it cost to register?
Registration is free up to 30 days before your event. Beginning 30 days before event day, registration is $50 and counts toward your fundraising minimum.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 8 years old on event day.
Can children participate?
Yes. Youth participants ages 8–17 are welcome to climb and have a fundraising minimum of $50.
Many events also offer a Little Big Climb experience for children ages 5–17. Visit your local event page for details.
Can I register on event day?
Event-day registration availability varies by location. Check your local event page for event-specific information.
Fundraising
Is there a fundraising minimum?
Yes. Adult participants commit to raising $150, and youth participants doing the main climb or a Little Big Climb (between the ages of 5–17) commit to raising $50.
We’ll provide fundraising tools, templates, and support to help you reach your goal.
Where do my donations go?
Funds raised through Big Climb support Blood Cancer United’s mission to cure blood cancers and improve the quality of life of patients and their families through research, patient support, advocacy, and education.
Read about the power of your donation
When is the fundraising deadline?
You may continue fundraising after event day. However, certain recognition levels and event-day incentives may require fundraising minimums to be met before the event.
Visit the Recognition Program page for more details.
What fundraising support is available?
Participants receive access to fundraising guides, social media resources, email templates, fundraising ideas, and coaching tools.
Visit the Fundraising Resources page to explore available tools.
Teams
How do teams work?
Teams allow friends, family members, coworkers, and community groups to participate together while supporting a common cause.
Each team has a captain who creates the team and invites others to join.
Will my team climb together?
We do our best to keep team members together whenever possible. Procedures may vary by event.
Can I change my wave time?
Wave assignments are generally finalized before event day and cannot be changed. Refer to the Event Day Guide page for details.
Little Big Climb
What is Little Big Climb?
Little Big Climb gives kids ages 5–17 the opportunity to participate alongside family and friends while supporting Blood Cancer United’s mission. The Little Big Climb is a shorter version of the larger, main climb.
Who can participate?
- Youth ages 5–17, must commit to raising $50
- Must be registered with a parent or guardian
- Parent or guardian must meet the $150 fundraising minimum by event day
- Child must be added to the parent or guardian’s fundraising team
How do I register a child?
Contact your local event team or email [email protected] for assistance.
Event Participation
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and athletic shoes appropriate for climbing stairs.
What happens if I can’t finish the climb?
Participant safety is our top priority. Event staff and volunteers will be available to assist if needed.
What happens if it rains?
Most Big Climb events are held indoors and take place rain or shine.
Are service animals allowed?
Service animals are permitted in accordance with applicable laws and venue policies.
Is the event accessible?
Accessibility accommodations vary by venue. Please contact your local event team with any questions regarding accessibility needs.
Spectators & Event Day
Can friends and family attend?
Spectator policies vary by venue. Refer to your local Event Day Guide for event-specific information.
Is there parking available?
Parking and transportation information is provided in your local Event Day Guide.
Will there be food and refreshments?
Most events provide water and post-climb refreshments. Details vary by location.
Where can I find my wave time?
Wave times are typically communicated before event day and may also be available through your local event page. Refer to the Event Day Guide page for details.
Recognition & Rewards
What do I receive for fundraising?
Participants earn recognition at various fundraising milestones.
- $150 — Official Big Climb Medal
- $250 — Big Climb T-Shirt
- $1,000 — Climb Master [wearable-TBD]
Recognition levels are cumulative.
Learn more about the recognition program
Do survivors receive special recognition?
Yes. All registered blood cancer survivors receive a commemorative survivor shirt and special recognition on event day.
What if I don’t receive my recognition item?
Please contact your local event staff and we’ll be happy to help.
Volunteers
Do you need volunteers?
Absolutely. Volunteers help create an incredible event experience and play a vital role in Big Climb’s success.
Visit the Volunteer page to learn more and sign up.
Still Have Questions?
Contact your local Big Climb staff or call 888.557.7177 for assistance.
The Blood Cancer United mission: Cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. Blood Cancer United funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care. Blood Cancer United is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all monetary donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by tax laws. Please check with your financial advisor if you have more questions. Tax Identification Number: 13-5644916 © 2015-2026 Blood Cancer United. A 501(c)(3) organization. All rights reserved.