RAFF IT UP! - February/March, 2001

What is a Sparkner?

Sparkner is a new "RAFF-type" word. It is people and groups who are a wonderful combination of being a partner and a spark in community building. We want partners in Community Building and we want "Sparkners", people who are enthusiastic, energetic and champions of community building, people who give their time, energy, and, financial and in-kind resources.

Who are your Sparkners and how do you find them? Simple... build relationships that go beyond labels and first impressions. Take the time to talk to people, so you can share your enthusiasm and dreams, and they can see and feel where they can be fulfilled and find their spark. A "Sparkner", one of the keys to building community!

Funding - is it a four-letter word?

As I meet and talk to people across the country in Community Building I am disconcerted by the amount of time many groups are spending on "finding Funding". The clamour for the all-mighty dollar and the lack there-of is always snapping at the heels of these wonderful organizations that have so much heart and are doing so much with so little. It seems to me that we should be looking in another direction, looking for ways to make money, not find money to sustain our community journey in the ways that we see fit.

Does that make sense?
In other words we should be producers rather than a consumers. What can your group do that will complement its activities and generate revenue? ......

• a business incubator
• a housing initiative
• a market
• computer training
• conference organizing?

Imagine if we could all grow our own businesses so we could see our own new frontiers more clearly and with excitement. Imagine the banks helping us create our plans and our proposals, where we can set the stage for our own success and see the future as positive because of our own creativity and dreams.

Here's a test for you to try….

• How many days can you go without using the word funding, rather using the words…creating revenue or making money?

I only made it four days. Good luck.

Think about it. Making money and showing revenues create pride that furthers your growth and prosperity for the future. It works! Go for it!!

Want to see past RAFF It Up! ideas???....click here.

http://www.cbr-aimhigh.com