It depends on what all you need to cover but here is an estimate. Assume about $10 per person if you have 200 or more people, but then add the general expenses. For example, my kids school walkathon, with about 200 participants, cost just under $2000. Note that we had no facilities or police charges. Here is a break down:

Per Person: T Shirt = $5.50 at most, Lap cards, lanyards, small prizes = $2.50, Miscellaneous = $2 Total = no more than $10 per person
Fixed:
Yellow tape and cones to mark the course = About $150 for a schoolyard event
Extra trash pickup or janitorial services= ??
Outhouses = ??
Rent, borrow or purchase canopies and tables = ??
Have concessions items donated or charge for them = net profit only
Do you need to pay for facilities or police supervision = Call officials who are associated with your site
Do you need to cover insurance or is that part of a school where the insurance would be covered (check with principal)?

Other readers, if you have expenses I haven’t listed, please feel free to add a comment. Thanks, Lee

Another method was used at a walk I participated in that required only 5 laps (each lap was 1 mile). They gave each walker a rubber band every time a lap was completed. The walker put the rubber band around his/her wrist as a reminder of the number of laps completed and a confirmation at the end of the entire walk. This method would not work well if too many rubber bands had to be worn. In that case, your lap card if a fantastic idea.

I love the ideas you are sharing!

I am so excited to find your web site! I have brought the idea of a walk-a-thon to the attention of the director at my daughter’s preschool. I think it is a great alternative to typical fundraisers like selling cookie dough and candy. I would love to read a copy if your E-book.

Thanks!
Jeanelle