Ask the Experts Charity Sponsorship Q&A

A local charity is hosting a run, and they asked me to ''sponsor'' it. I'm willing to participate, but I'm not sure how to get the most out of my contribution. Any suggestions?

- Wendy, Walnut Creek, CA

Offer to have the run begin or end at your store, if you have one, or at a gallery that features your jewelry if you can arrange it. You can provide refreshments or race literature there, if space allows. This ensures that you're not just one of the many names on a program or T-shirt (not that's there's anything wrong with that!). Serving as a beginning point, end point, or refreshment stop along the course guarantees people see you and your jewelry. Also, you can offer a piece of jewelry to be used as a prize, in addition to your monetary contribution. Make a special ''theme'' piece that ties into the charity and/or the event.

- Dr. David Weiman