Fundraising for 2013
Update: As of March 2013, we have raised 12,000 dollars!
2013 Goal:
$120,000 is our fundraising goal for this year! Based on 2012 and some of the specific projects we have in mind for this year, we believe this is a realistic and attainable goal, yet we're still pushing ourselves to accomplish more than we have previously. We can't do this without your help though! Every little bit helps immensely! We will keep you updated throughout the year as we work towards this goal!
Our long-term goal is to send 90% of raised funds towards our projects, both abroad and in the United States. We have worked hard to keep costs as low as possible here, and are now focusing on raising more money through increasing the donor base and applying for grants.
How We Plan to Raise $120,000
Donations
Reason2Smile relies heavily on donations, coming in through a combination of online and in-person/events. We encourage monthly donations, which allows us to more easily forecast for the future. Our online donation system offers automatic monthly withdrawals for your convenience. We are working to make it easier for people to donate, and we hope that this page helps you understand what our needs are, and what we are working towards.
Grants
We are currently applying for funding to support our projects, particularly the Education and Character Development work. We do not charge for presentations, therefore grants will allow us to continue doing the education work that opens the eyes and minds of children in the United States to be mindful of their own life, and gain an understanding of what children in developing countries face every day.
Sponsorships
Of the 300 students at the Jambo Jipya Academy, we find sponsors for 125. These are students who we know enough about to feel confident they will continue through the year, make an effort at school, and are not going to take for granted the opportunities that they are presented. Currently, sponsorships cover $27,000 of funding for Jambo Jipya.
Bracelets and Other Goods
Each bracelet sells for $2, and we sell many, many bracelets. When Keela makes a school presentation, it is not rare for her to be able to sell over 100 . The benefit of bracelet sales makes up a small percentage of our total fundraising, but the increased exposure for Reason2Smile can often lead to a larger donation. With around 12,000 bracelets circulating in the wild, it is amazing to think of where they may be!
Bracelets can now be purchased in our online store, or using our order form.
We also sell a variety of other goods, both US made (magnets, t-shirts, cds) and Kenyan made (cloth, jewelry, toys, and carvings). These goods can be found for sale at various events and presentations that we do throughout the year as well as by appointment. (Contact keela@reason2smile.org if you would like more information.)
Fundraising Events
Throughout the year we hold many fundraising events, including art nights at Bluseed Studios and the Lake Placid Center for the Arts, selling doughnuts at the Ironman, the Marcellus Fall Festival, and a trail run. We are always up for new ideas and venues. These tend to be great because not only do we get to all enjoy the event, but we often are able to meet new people and expand Reason2Smile's reach. In 2013 we have a goal to create two or three brand new events and we are always looking for people to help us organize these! Contact Keela if you are interested in being involved.
Presentations for Education and Character Development
As a main focus of Reason2Smile Inc, Keela is frequently on the road doing presentations and workshops focusing on education and character development. When given the opportunity her schedule will be packed, with barely time to move from classroom to classroom! This allows her to meet new people, and share information about situations most people will never see first-hand. It is great when she is able to expand what a student knows about their world!
Presentations often lead to fundraising events and activities. Some examples include the Cato-Meridian Elementary School's African Night, the Robert C. Parker School Shirt Exchange, and African Night at Paul Smiths College.
Thank You
Thank you so much for your support. If at any point you have questions, do not hesitate to get in touch. Working together we can accomplish amazing things. Join us on this trip, it's going to be exciting!