Then again, you always knew BOM was unique and special!
Posted by Amanda Farrar on December 10, 2010
To tell the truth, I never saw myself working in fundraising. I always thought of it just as asking for money. And, with my husband in sales, it seemed so improbable that one could be successful as a fundraiser! Here you are asking for money, and offering nothing in return.
But then, I began interning for a development department. I learned what goes behind all these asks for money. I learned that behind each request and monetary gift is an individual that you come to know, appreciate, and many times, befriend. Most importantly, I learned that fundraising is not just about asking for and receiving money. It is gaining support for a mission that both you and the donor feel strongly about.
I have come to understand that fundraising is building a community in support of a mission, and only when this occurs can the mission be fulfilled. I have been part of many such community-building efforts over time, and have seen the achievements of organizations as a direct result of the support from individuals in those communities.
Although I have enjoyed working with donors at all of my previous positions, there is something unique and special about the donors at Barrel of Monkeys. Maybe it is the joy that seems to penetrate each and every aspect of the company. Anyone who has attended a performance of “That’s Weird, Grandma” can bear witness to the contagiousness of the joy we Monkeys experience doing the work that we do. It makes sense that our donors would catch this wonderful sickness!
So often I have the pleasure of thanking those who support our efforts and make successes reality, but it never seems like enough! Therefore, I’d like to embrace this season wholly and tell you about some of the amazing individuals who make Barrel of Monkeys such a pleasure to work for.
At this time last year, BOM sent out our first “Sponsor-A-Story” campaign solicitation. John answered the call in the form of a monthly donation – at the beginning giving $15, the cost of bringing 1.5 stories from a child to the page. Every month I look forward to the card that arrives from John with a personal note of thanks to us for doing the work that we do. John and I have become pen pals of sorts, having never officially met one another, exchanging wonderful thank-yous over and over again. I keep John’s cards at my desk and on my wall as encouragement (pictures of select cards below!)! I look forward to the possibility of meeting him at our Monkey-O-Kee fundraiser (Save the date: January 30) and maybe hearing his rendition of “Just Like Heaven”!
I can’t talk about donors without highlighting the ongoing efforts of our board of directors! A group of 12 individuals give their time, talents, and funds year round providing guidance and assurance that the company is moving in the right direction. We are always looking for stellar individuals to add to these ranks. As I reflect upon the process of wooing potential board members, I recall the first conversation I had with our newest board member about BOM. I saw my excitement for the mission reflected in his responses, and now as part of the Monkey family, like his fellow board members our newest addition is an amazing steward of the work of our organization and is a fantastic partner to the staff and board alike.
Last but not least, gigantic thanks are deserved by our Monkey family and friends. They recognize our labors of love, and in their support of us individually, they support the larger vision of the organization and thus are connected to each and every student with whom we work.
Even though it doesn’t seem like enough, I would like to thank you for personally making my job an absolute joy. Every day I come to work, I am confident that we are making a positive impact in the world, and it’s only with your support that any of this is possible.
If you haven’t already joined this incredible Monkey family, consider it this holiday season! You, like our friend John, can help a story from a student come to be for as little as $10. You will get something in return! Besides a wonderful warm feeling, I will send you a story from one of our recent residencies. Or, in the season of giving, sponsor a story in honor of a loved one, and I’ll send them a heart-felt, silly, and uplifting story like this one! (Monica’s Special Christmas Eve)
From all of us at BOM, have a safe and happy holiday!