[NABS-L] NABS Fundraising Challenge: Have Fun Making Change

[Robert Parsons]

Good Morning My NABS Family
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> What an autumn it’s been so far. With conventions in full swing, elections finally behind us, and holidays on the horizon; the National Association of Blind Students is now in need of your help. As per our tradition, NABS is a very active part of Washington Seminar. Our 2021 Washington Seminar boasts a virtual platform, leaving NABS with the challenge of creating programming that entertains members, guests, and elected officials; but also brings in some financial support for future endeavors. Our NABS action auction, which is a staple each year at seminar, is still a big part of this fundraising event in February, so it is time for our membership to pitch in and create possibilities for us to continue our great work. Read below to understand the process.
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> The Basics: The NABS board, along with the fundraising committee have been tasked with gathering donations for auction items for over a month already and would like to extend this request for all members to assist. Attached to this message is the official NABS funding packet. This packet includes a description of NABS, our programs, and our mission. It also includes different levels of sponsorship and a request for either sponsors or item donations. NABS would benefit if each of you can approach businesses, organizations, individuals, conglomerates, literally anyone interested in helping to build the Federation with NABS, for a donation of some sort. Below are some of the things that can be included as a donation:
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> Cash: if someone or a business would like to contribute cash, please ask them to complete the packet, indicating how much they would like to donate. That packet should be emailed to me at Robert.E.Parsons at wmich.edu so that I can add it to the records. The packet also includes the phone number, email address, and payment information for our NABS treasurer, Elizabeth Rouse. By sending me the completed funding packet, Elizabeth and I can anticipate when these funds will be sent and confirm when it has arrived.
> Individual Items: though auctions at NABS events and conventions may seem larger than life, we are not an organization that belittles any donation. With NABS’ bundling experience, even the seemingly miniscule items can be rolled into a bundle or basket of other items to be auctioned off. The best part of our fundraising committee is the creativity that our membership brings to it. All items being donated should be indicated on the form and sent to me at the aforementioned email address. The mailing address for these small items is in the packet. Please have individual items mailed as soon as possible after the funding packet is received. The committee will also follow up with the NABS treasurer to assure that the items were received.
> Pledges: if a business or individual is interested in pledging to provide an item from a third party source, like Amazon or a retail store, please inform them that we can take a pledge for the item they are planning to donate as well. This pledge allows for individuals or businesses to complete the funding packet, return it to us, and ship the item to the auction winner after the time of the auction win. Please note that this option is only available for items that are valued at more than $150. If this is something that a business or organization is interested in, please have them complete the form and send it to my email address directly. This allows for me and the committee co-chairs to consistently interact with the business or organization throughout the duration of the time leading up to the auction.
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> If you have never experienced soliciting for donations before with NABS, don’t worry. I have included a template for a solicitation approach in this message as well. Please update it and change it to fit your writing style. This sample can be used in the body of an email or can be sent as an attachment, but a tip to all that do this is that there is a greater chance that you can land a donor or sponsor if the first approach is done in person (be safe, of course).
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> Finally, there is an incentive! In the great work that our committee does around the country, NABS is able to build lasting connections with organizations that respect our dedication and hustle. Iota Phi Theta, Inc., one of the “Divine Nine” black fraternal and sororal Organizations of this country, donated a few items for our Washington Seminar, but also provided yours truly with a Google Home speaker for the NABS member that brings in the most completed funding packets. This incentive will be open to all members to compete for until December 1, 2020 at 12pm. If you have questions about any of these items or the funding packet, feel free to call or text me at (804) 801-7674. We hope that we can receive your help and thank you in advance for your hard work.
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> With Love
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> Robert E. Parsons, Jr.
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> Board Member| National Association of Blind Students
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> Board Member| National Federation of the Blind of Michigan
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> Masters Student| Rehabilitation Counseling and Vision Rehabilitation Therapy
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> Western Michigan University ‘21
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> Pronouns: He, Him, His
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> P: 804.801.7674
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