My personal lack of wealthy connections

I've never thought about the wealth of my friends before. That is...until lately.

I recently joined the Sioux Empire American Red Cross Board. I'm very excited about this opportunity. I wanted to keep my hands in the non profit world so I didn't lose that thought process now that I'm working for the big dogs :)!

Because of my experience in grant development, it was a natural fit for me to be placed in the Philanthropy subcommittee. So, I'm getting my first taste of some hard core fundraising. We are planning an event for next week to recognize first responders in our counties. Great concept - I'm thrilled by the chance to get to be part of something like this.

Well...for those of you who have never done any fundraising, it actually involves asking people for money! I know, surprise, right? And, not just some money, but big donations. Imagine me sitting in these planning mtgs with some very well connected people who are throwing around names of the most influential in the city. They know everyone and really have no problem hunting these people down to ask for money. Great for them. My problem is that I really don't have any wealthy friends (sorry, friends, but you would probably agree with that statement! ha ha).

So, as you can see, I am in a bit of a pickle. I'm doing ok so far with contacting businesses & bringing in money that way. But, it would definitely be easier if I just knew all the housewives of Orange County, New York, Beverly Hills... Oh well, I love my friends, even if they aren't able to donate $10,000 in the same fashion that you or I might buy a can of pop from the vending machine.

Us poor people gots to stick together! And unite around the table helping stuff thousands of envelopes for our favorite charities instead of giving the big bucks. Just make sure not to lick them all.