An Ifish kids and Christmas event

[dogfishboy]

When Jen and I talked about the loaner program we also discussed an Ifish kids and Christmas event. It goes something like this. Ifish members would solicit donations of new toys and fishing equipment from individuals and businesses. We would then distribute them around the holidays. This one could be reel fun. http://www.ifish.net/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif It is unlikely we could get something going this Christmas, but as we go through the holiday this year we can plan as
ideas come up. This has the possibility of being a fun annual holiday event.

Jen, I copied your thoughts from the loaner post to here.

“I would also like to start the thread, David, on the Christmas program for kids. Get donations from readers here, contact a distributor, or tackle company about what we are doing and see if they would donate or slash prices for the program? It could be really fun! We could get someones red jet sled and drive around delivering them! Fun! To handicapped kids, or to make a wish foundations, or under priveledged kids? Long term goals are to get people to take the anglers ed class and actually take these kids out fishing. Bill and I both did the class. It is great fun. I learned alot. I also have a great local contact of people who took this class. Anyway... lets develop these thoughts.” Jen.

Sorry Jen, was getting pressure to get back to my sheetrocking project last night and only had time to slip onto the computer for a sec.

[fish_on]

What would be best money or equipment? I have a freind with a red sled boat and red truck I could talk into delivering stuff. Maybe we should contact the Salvation Army to see how best to locate the people we want to help

[Deleted User]

There are lots of sources to find challenged families and kids. My father works with St. Mathews Church in Beaverton in there food disribution program. They have sources that give them lists of those needing help. They also have developed an excellant relationship with community stores that donate food for this program; in addition to getting some from the Oregon Food Bank program. I think some tackle/toy businesses would consider donating to such worthy causes. It would help a lot to register as a non-profit organiztation to help facilitate gathering donations. My .02 cents. - RT

[dogfishboy]

Very good point RT. Having a non-profit status would be a tremendous incentive for businesses to contribute. Even though I've worked for a non-profit for the last twelve years, I have no idea of the steps involved in getting that status. Don't know how Jen feels about this, but I would be glad to discuss it with our Financial Director. Jen, any idea as to the process or if this is an option in your mind.

David