February 12, 2009

My friend Julie is the kind of person I like to work with. She's straight forward, honest and very good at seeing the big picture. Like most Directors of NPOs she is also underpaid for the long hours and dedication. Over ten years ago, we worked together on a mentoring program with schools and Big Brothers Big Sisters. I remember very clearly when I realized the difference between corporate and non profit budgets. Julie and I flew out to Escanaba, MI on the Mead private jet. To me, it was just another business trip. To her, it was leather seats, open bar, no waiting in airports, and VIP treatment. We stayed at a B&B with beds so fluffy she had to climb up onto hers. She thought she had gone to heaven.

We had a great time talking today - old friends catching up and moving right on to the purpose for the visit. I went through the background of TWCCTW, Ginny, My PowerMall and then went over the numbers with her. She said it was a lot to take in, but she just couldn't get past the fact that it looked like a pyramid.
"Julie, you know me. You know my history with funding and NPO partnerships. Would I drive 2 hours and waste your time with a bunch of crap?" ( I don't talk this way to everyone - we've known each other for 18 years!)
"No, I know you wouldn't. I just can't see how this can be real." She had just found out that the investments that provide their sustainability were down $30,000. "First, I hear that we lost a bunch of money and then you show me this! My head is spinning. So what do I have to do?"
We talked a bit about Mahoosuc Kids- that it was a fee for service program. "Can parents pay this fee with American Express?" I asked.
"Yes."
"So here's what you do... Tier 1 is Mahoosuc Kids, Tier 2 is your staff and board, Tier 3 are the families of the kids who use the program (100+). The kids can sponsor a NPO, and also earn money for college. This meets three of your program goals right here: fostering a community service ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit in the kids, and sustainability."
I also discussed how every time her staff and board promoted their own World Changer Malls, they would be supporting Mahoosuc Kids. She liked the part about providing income for her staff and board. I had her log onto my WCM and showed her around the mall and Biz site. I showed her how to sign up.
"Julie, check this out thoroughly as Jim and I did. ( I told her about the WCM for Mike and Betsy). When you do, you'll see just how powerful this can be for Mahoosuc Kids, your staff and the kids you serve. It'll click in your head and you'll be blown away."