Club Watch

Shaelynn Giessler

Distribution Manager

So, you checked out the Club Kick Off Event, and joined a club. What's next? Did you know that every club is automatically entitled to $1,000 for being recognized as a club? Neither did I, but let's be honest: For some, $1,000 just won't cut it. What can you do to get more money?

Therresia Hazelmyer, interim treasurer, has put together a plan to encourage clubs to seek out more funding. It's called an RFP, or request for proposals. If you want more money for your club you need to request it in a packet that will be available on Oct 17. The deadline for turning in completed packets is Nov. 17.

To help aid clubs in filling out the grant proposals, Hazelmyer has put together what are called Technical Assistance Workshops. The workshops are to be held in the 1000 building on Oct. 27 and Nov. 3 at 1:30 p.m. They will last for approximately 30- to 45-minutes. Those who need help with proposals are encouraged to come to the workshops for guidance and suggestions. Hazelmyer was a fund-raiser for non-profit organizations and is knowledgeable in making ideas come to life.

Once the packets are complete, clubs are encouraged to present their ideas to the Budget and Finance committee. Don't worry, they're a friendly committee with three or four members who are open to ideas. The presentations shouldn't last longer than 10 minutes. If you present to the committee, your chances of getting funded will be higher than those who don't.

Last year the committee gave away $20,000 in funding to a variety of clubs. This year the budget is much bigger, the committee may allocate up to $40,000. "The Fall Supplemental Budget Process provides clubs with access to funds beyond the traditional baseline budget for academic, social, cultural, and community service activities and events, while facilitating the practical application of leadership, management, organizational, and promotional skills," said Hazelmyer.

Don't let the opportunity pass you by. Fill out the packet, go to the workshop, submit your ideas to the committee and get your money. If you have any questions feel free to give Hazelmyer a call at (206) 533-6614.