Fundraising Committee
1995 Annual Report
During 1995 it became apparent that Chebucto is not in good financial
health. Our emphasis on the free nature of a community net was so well
received that many users did not realize that Chebucto is not free to
operate and many who could easily afford to support us were not even
aware that such support was needed. The board has actively attempted to
correct this mis-communication and the number of society members has
increased as a result. In addition, processes are being put in place
which will make it easier for users to pay membership fees.
A strategic report was commissioned from a local fund-raiser which gives
the fund-raising committee a basis for future activity. In cooperation
with the Membership Committee, changes have been made in memberships with
benefits like Custom User Names for Supporting Members.
A fairly comprehensive plan has been developed for 1996 which requires
new members on the committee who will accept the challenge to make
Chebucto as successful financially as it is technically. If you are
interested in discussing how you might help, send e-mail to Joan.
Tasks for 1996
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1. Develop "Benefits of Membership" Plan, for example:
- * approach local businesses for discounts or special offers for
Chebucto Members
- * solicit our users for discounts or special offers for Chebucto Members
- * explore other ideas
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2. Research, evaluate and, implement (where appropriate and feasible)
various fund-raising ideas, for example:
- * an on-line auction with items donated from the community
- * advanced internet training
- * connection set-up service
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3. Information Provider Services
- * work with ip's to find funding for special development projects which
would benefit the ip and, later benefit ccn in general
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4. Organize an annual Fund Raising Drive for Chebucto
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5. Organize and operate an on-line Boutique to sell such things as:
- * T-shirts
- * mugs
- * ball hats
- * promotional items like pens
- * ccn mouse pads
- * user guide
- * gift certificates
- * start-up packages with disk of shareware/freeware and clear directions
on installation and connection basics
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6. Establish partnerships with local businesses for support of Chebucto
users, phone line sponsorship, page sponsorship, advertising on
membership cards, advertising on printed newsletters.
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7. Consider and explore other ideas.
Respectfully submitted,
Joan Macintosh, Chair