Reasons to Give

I once heard in a fundraising seminar that the number one reason people give to a non-profit organization is because they are asked. I guess that makes sense. In order to give to something you at least need to know that something or someone needs your help. So for the next few days I'll be writing about Reasons to give to DinoMights this Holiday Season.

Up front, if the number one reason people give is because they are asked, then I would like to humbly ask for your support of Hockey in the Hood. Now, I know that money is a sensitive topic, and things are tight for many Americans right now. However, DinoMights is a reputable 501 (c) 3 Non-Profit Organization and we do rely on the kindness of financial givers in order to continue the work we do on the South side of Minneapolis.

We do need your help. Our budget for 2009 is $158,000. What a bargain! We served about 250 kids in 2009 from low income neighborhoods with Ice Hockey, Summer Camps, Tutoring, Community Service, Technology classes, Learn 2 Skate Programs, and Faith Based Love at a budgeted cost of about $158,000.

The funds to support DinoMights come from a variety of sources, which can be put into three main categories: Individual Givers, Grants, and Corporate Giving. Individual givers are everyday people that believe in what DinoMights stands for and believes that DinoMights is doing a good job. Grants come from foundations and major corporations that have set aside funds to give to causes they believe in. Typically grants require an application process and sometimes a site visit, because the Foundations want to make sure that they are giving to worthy causes. We're pleased to be supported by some wonderful foundations that truly hold us accountable for the work we're doing. The list includes The National Hockey League, The McKnight Foundation and The General Mills Foundation among others. Visit our partners page to see more. Finally, corporate giving includes free will gifts from business as well as sponsorship of our annual fundraising event.

Right now we are about $20,000 from our year end financial goal. It may sound like a lot, but most of our individual giving happens in December. Of course, $20,000 is nothing to sneeze at. However, if people who see the need decide to give their support this is a very achievable goal.

If you would like to give to DinoMights this holiday season you can do so by clicking on the widget on the right of the screen. You may also visit our online giving page by clicking the link. All gifts are tax-deductible.

If you are in a position to make a major donation in the amount of $10,000, $5,000, or $2,500, and you think this is a worthy cause we would love your support! If you would like to contact me with any questions at all, please feel free.

If you want to make sure that you have Good Reasons to Give, stay tuned this week. I'll be writing about a variety of Good Reasons to support DinoMights in 2009!