Aaron Godfrey of HUSCO - Largest New Team in 2011

Team Captain Feature

• Please provide a bit of background regarding your involvement with the UPAF Ride for the Arts, sponsored by Miller Lite.
• I have participated for several years as an individual and as part of a smaller group (not a team). This past year, I began canvassing several of my colleagues to participate and decided to form a team. This was supported by senior management and HR. I then proceeded to recruit more people.
• What is the approximate size of your company?
• There are approximately 500 people working for HUSCO in Wisconsin, although many work in Whitewater and that is a long extra trip. There are probably 300 or so in Waukesha. We also opened things up to family members.
• What are your tips on recruiting team members?
• The primary method of recruiting was speaking with people personally. Once they were on board, having them speak with others.
• Do you offer any additional incentives to register for your team?
• HUSCO paid the entry fee; this was a great help.
• Do you hold any special team get-togethers either before the Ride or on the day of the Ride?
• We tried to coordinate a meeting prior to the 50/75 mile ride and were only partially successful. I had a get together afterwards at my house on the East Side for those interested. In the future, I would coordinate more effectively before and after.
• Do you encourage pledging amongst team members? If so, do you have any tips on raising more pledges?
• I did not encourage pledging, although I did and several others did as well. I am more comfortable leaving that up to individuals. HUSCO matched pledges.
• Do you have any other advice for team captains?
• It does take some time to coordinate, more than I had thought. I thought in my organization that a low-key approach was more effective than a high pressure sales pitch; essentially, it helps the Arts Community, it is good exercise, it is fun, and an opportunity for building community.