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Brandon Bautista's avatar

I had a bunch of embarrassing stories about adolescent Dan peppered through this entire post that have somehow "disappeared" in the final version, so feel free to reach out to me if you're interested in those.

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Angda Goel's avatar

I was really hoping this was going to be a whole thing in the tipping culture everywhere. It’s insane! But we should also do one on the “rounding up” at grocery stores for different causes. Like you can’t just buy what you came for without being morally judged by the cashier because it’s usually something like a children’s hospital.

I went to a few JDRF fundraisers and they were the best social events of the year! The tickets cost a bit and there was a cash bar, but people got all dressed up and there was a silent auction, the works. Events like those are always easier to give more at because it’s like a party.

Interestingly enough, the parents who organized it stopped when their kid went off the college…

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Dan Keedy's avatar

You are on the money with this, Brandon. I have the same reaction to being hit over the by groups asking for money for causes that I fully support. I give what and when I can but don't ask me so often. Reach out sometimes when not asking for a donation.

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Julie Marsiglio's avatar

Yes to all you have written! It is always good to remind us fundraisers not to get anxious and worried and over ask....it is not about us or our metrics but the relationship with the supporter for the mission.

And, I think there could be a whole post on places that ask for tips but haven't done anything to earn them...like why do I have the tip at Starbucks??? - coming from a former Friendly's waitress

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Dan Mangiavellano's avatar

I would like to read a post about what your past job as a Friendly's waitress tells us about raising money. And I'm only a little bit kidding, Julie!

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Kaitlyn Gallagher's avatar

Great post, Brandon. Love your suggestion for people to share their stories rather than a donation every time. Stories are more valuable than we give them credit for. Also, Tim Robinson is the best comedian working right now, no one can change my mind.

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david powers's avatar

Great thoughts. I witnessed the same with my mother. Land wealthy, cash poor. She would write notes to the dunning organizations asking forgiveness because she could not afford to give that month.

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Kitty's avatar

Brandon, bravo!

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