You don't have to give big to make a difference

Let’s try a social experiment right here in central Washington.

In 2008, Barack Obama raised a record setting $638 million for his presidential election campaign. On the surface, one would assume his massive war chest was funded by large donations from institutional supporters. Which is true; however, there’s a little more to it. Yes, one third of his donations were between $2,300 and $4,600, the maximum allowed by law. Yes, he probably took money from insurance executives and Wall Street brokers.

And yes, one quarter of all donations received were under $200. Some gave $5. Some gave $20. Some gave a $100, and in the end, 3.4 million individuals had donated a collective $156 million.

What’s unique is all these donations came from people just like you and me. They have mortgages and kids in school. They have monthly bills and maybe even live paycheck to paycheck. But they all came together to elect the next leader of the free world. With partisan politics aside, all parties – with the exception of Trump – are now following this donation model.

Why? Because it works. These small donations are more reflective of the 99 percent club, which I’m sure 99 percent of our readers belong to, myself included. These small donations actually proved that true democracy works.

So let’s give it a try here in the Columbia Basin.

Our local Boys & Girls Club of the Columbia Basin provides a positive place for more than 250 area youth at their McGraw Family and North Elementary Clubhouses. As many readers know, our local club is reliant on donations from businesses – large and small – and individuals in the community. Along with a handful of employees, the club is governed by a truly dedicated group of businesses leaders who all volunteer their time to keep our club growing. As a board member, I am dedicated to see the club continue to prosper.

This year’s Campaign for Kids is already underway. Our goal is to raise $80,000 by May 23. Again, as a board member, I challenge every reader to help demonstrate the power of the small donation. If Obama raised $156 million through donations under $200, surely we can raise $10,000 with donations under $25.

If 400 readers gave as little as $25 each we’d raise a whopping $10,000. Imagine if 600 readers did the same. Or even a few donated $35 or $50. The final tally would make any political campaign take notice.

The money raised helps support the local Boys & Girls Club in a variety of ways; most importantly creating a positive place for kids. Our support helps the club with general operating expenses such as employing professional and dedicated staff and helps fund a variety of programs, materials and services for hundreds of area youth. In most cases your gift is tax deductible, which we all know helps lower our tax bill to the IRS.

Here’s how you donate – grab scissors, a pen and your checkbook. Cut out the donation form below. Complete the donation form, throw it in an envelope (along with your $25 check) and mail it to The Boys & Girls Club, PO Box 591, Moses Lake, WA 98837. If you have a question, call the club right away (509-764-9694) so you can get that donation made. Or, call me (509-765-4561) and I can help you.

And your small donation won’t go unnoticed. I’ll make sure that every reader who didn’t donate sees your name and recognition and how important your donation was to the club.

Now go make that donation! Only 399 more to go.