Charity’s social payoff
Well, I’m off to a fun-packed evening of “Frog Racing” in aid of my son’s school. What I don’t understand is this. Why? I’m not questioning the merits of raising money so the school association can do interesting things for pupils’ benefit that normal funds wouldn’t stretch to. No, what I’m wondering is why does it have to be a social event? Local companies, mostly owned by parents have contributed generously to sponsor tables. In addition each attendee has made a contribution to go along and partake. The thing is, I don’t think it would be an exaggeration to say that none of those in attendance or who have contributed are living on the bread line. Far from it.
I just don’t get why “they” feel the need to socialise. It’s not like they don’t get out. A more socially mobile bunch of parents would be difficult to imagine.
Here’s a suggestion. It applies equally well to playgroups, other charitable outfits and PTAs everywhere. Why not just confess: “We need money, you have it, please given generously.” Large charities get away with this every day of the week. When was the last time you had to (or, at least, felt compelled to) pitch up at Royal National Institute for the Blind evening of fun and frolicks? (assuming they even have them). Never I’m betting. You just put your hand in your pocket and throw the change in the bucket – because you can afford to. When was the last time you bought a copy of The Big Issue and had to have dinner with the guy selling it. When was the last time you made a charitable donation in return for a night out? You haven’t. If you’re donating in the expectation of a return in kind or otherwise then it’s not charitable is it!
Come on people; If you want to get together, just do it. If you want to give money to the school, just do it. The last fundraiser I actually paid NOT to go. I paid for my Wife’s friend to go with her. That seemed to work for everyone. But, I’d have happily given the £50 had they just said “Can we have £50 for the school?”.
Here’s an even better idea. Don’t use the petrol. Don’t buy a new frock. Don’t buy booze and food. Instead, if you want to do something charitable, stay in. Stay in and write a cheque for the amount you would have donated plus the amount you saved by staying in. Once in every ten night outs during the year, just stay in instead and make a donation to your chosen cause. The world’s charities will benefit enormously. And the more lavish your lifestyle, the more the charity gets.