Charity is a year round thing!

As we continue to plug away at fund raising for the Jerry Forbes Centre there is much to consider.

First off it is obvious that the fund raising template is changing greatly over the past several years and now many different Edmonton charities currently 'struggle' to make their annual goals.

There are many reasons for the shortfall (often simply economic), and yes we do have 'many' good causes to support in Edmonton and the dollars get a little thin, but it really is important that you, your family, and your company have some 'planned giving' in your donation decisons and that you help these very valuable groups along with either a) money or b) time wherever possible.

The Jerry Forbes Centre, once built, will allow many of these groups to 'work' together on their annual campaigns - and they are very confident that they will all 'save' money in their operations through the various synergies that will result from the JFC.

One building.  One receptionist.  One boardroom.  Free parking.  Etc. Etc. Etc.

The list is extensive and once the key is turned to open the doors of this much needed community centre  the costs of operating should come down 'considerably'  for each of them thus helping save a few dollars that they can direct to their particular causes rather than rent, heat/lights, etc.

Another thing to remember is that "Santas Anonymous" isn't going to get any smaller, and that this cause (along with the Christmas Bureau) operates 'year round' and not just at crunch time before the Christmas period.

Both groups constantly raise funds through sponsorships and special events twelve months of the year.  Both groups need to store gifts and other items for 11 1/2 months of the year in a secure environment.  Both groups need volunteers to simply exist.

So - this very short note is to remind you to PLEASE plan on helping out, where you can, and if you can help spread the word we'd be very grateful.

Where your company is looking to get involved in any type of giving program think of Santas and the Christmas Bureau and make a call to Debbie Walker at Jerry Forbes Centre - or Wendy Batty at the Christmas Bureau.

They too have a good list of volunteers and helpers that may be available to help out on your project or possiby even give you a few helpful tips on how to make the event even more successful.

This spring we hope to have some 'major' announcements on the fund raising project for Jerry Forbes Centre, and hopefully in the not too distant future a 'consolodated' ask will come from JFC that will help twenty or more so agencies in Edmonton meet their specific goals at 'one time.'

Thank you - have a great year!