BoosterTrends Newsletter

June, 2004

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Dear Booster........

Send Dear Booster your letters, comments and concerns. We will publish one each month and share Dear Booster answers with other clubs around the country.

Do you have something you would like to submit for the upcoming Dear Booster column? Send it to Dear Booster now.

Updates

Online Coordinator Registration now active

City Partner Registration program now active

We Want To Know

We want to hear what you think about this enewsletter.

Do you know of a booster worker who deserves to be recognized?

Club Fact

PUBLIC OPERATING FOUNDATIONS

If your booster club hasn't registered as a tax exempt 501c3 organization you may want to consider becoming a Public Operating Foundation.

The benefits a numerous, especially for booster clubs who have a constant turnover of officers every couple of years.

Public Operating Foundations provide all of the benefits and some as 501c3 organizations receive. Public Operating Foundations remove the complications, expense and ongoing administrative burden associated with properly administrating a tax exempt structure including the issue of yearly reporting.

Interested in setting up a Public Operating Foundation stay tuned to next months issue.....

Quick Online Links

Command Central

Online Chat

Fundraising Corner

Vendor Showcase

Club Membership

Vendor Membership

Check out past issues of Booster Trends

Visit us at: boosterclubs.org

To find out more click here

Dear Readers,

For those of you who are just receiving Booster Trends for the first time - Welcome! You join a growing list of fellow booster associates from around the country.

We encourage you to keep your letters, emails, comments and questions coming. Staying in touch with your needs is our key focus. As we work to help provide a support system for booster clubs we thank you for allowing us the ability to play a part in helping you and your club succeed. Together, we are making positive progress that counts!

Now, on to this month's issue.

in this issue. . .
	• Executive Directors Column • New NBCA Vendors • Fed Health • Building a Successful Booster Club - continuation series • Eye Benefits • Vendor of the Month • Do-It Yourself Fundraiser • Dear Booster • Vendor Spotlight • Seeking National Helpers • Monthly Booster Club Survey

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS COLUMN

REFLECTIONS
Another school year has quickly come and gone and during this past year the NBCA has enjoyed a record year. Our fantastic growth is a testament to both the quality of service provided by our staff and the markets call for guidance and support.

I want to share just a sample of the tremendous results that were realized.

	• Business membership grew by 128%
	• The number of booster clubs supported grew by 173%
	• BoosterTrends readership grew by 367%
	• The number of NBCA Coordinators now supporting booster clubs grew by 489%

As the association continues into an ever growing national expansion campaign we hope that the coming years will bring even larger opportunities to support your organization. We welcome your participation and encourage you to get involved.

Whether you choose to become a club coordinator, participate in a regional conference or seminar or become a certified Area Coordinator and help other clubs in your community, the window of opportunities are virtually endless.

I wish each of you the best of success.
Happy Boostering!

Steve M. Beden
Executive Director

NEW VENDORS

We would like to welcome the following companies to the National Booster Club Association and want to encourage you to patronize each of them. Their products and services are top notch.

FIELD TURF
Revolutionizing the synthetic turf industry, FieldTurf replicates a natural grass surface, but offers the durability and cost benefits of synthetic fields. Visit FieldTurf on BoosterWorld or at www.fieldturf.com

CUSTOM PRINTWORKS
Located in the heart of North Carolina, Custom Printworks specializes in premium hats designed like college hats, Photoballs, and a variety of other quality products. Visit Custom Printworks on BoosterWorld or at customprintworks.com

CORNERSTONE COFFEE COMPANY
We are the The "Original Coffee Fundraiser". We have helped organizations raise over $125,000 with our innovative coffee fundraisers. Fresh roasted to order! Register online Today! Visit Cornerstone Coffee Company on BoosterWorld or at www.cornerstonecoffee.com

EYE BENEFITS
EyeBenefits offers members a vision savings program with over 9,500 optical store locations nationwide. Members will receive 20-50% discounts on exams, eyewear and Lasik. Fresh roasted to order! Register online Today! Visit Eye Benefits on BoosterWorld or at www.eyebenefits.com

IMAGE SPORTS
Image Sport specializes in fundraising programs for schools and organizations: 1) no cost, no risk custom apparel 2) specialized apparel to sell at sporting events. Visit Image Sports on BoosterWorld or at www.imagesport.com

COLOR CRAFT STUDIOS
Color Craft Studios offers a FAMILY PORTRAIT FUNDRAISING program, with the convenience of a studio being brought to your location! Visit Color Craft Studios on BoosterWorld or at www.colorcraftstudios.com

FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS
Color Craft Studios offers a FAMILY PORTRAIT FUNDRAISING program, with the convenience of a studio being brought to your location! Visit From Our Home to Yours on BoosterWorld or at www.fromourhometoyours.net/fundraising

FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS
Custom, near photo quality images on Ceramic Tile, Mugs and Murals. Sand Carved Crystal, Glass and Marble. Advertising Specialties. Quantity Discounts! Your logo, your words. Visit Glass Dog House on BoosterWorld or at http://www.kashmir-inc.com

LITTLE CAESARS PIZZA KIT FUNDRAISING
Earn more than ever before with Little Caesars Fundraising Program. You’ll earn $5.00 profit for every item sold! Our “Combo” Program offers our Pizza Kits and Cookie Dough on one convenient order form. Our product quality and Little Caesars brand name makes selling EASY! Register online 24-hours-a-day at www.PizzaKit.com! Visit Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising on BoosterWorld or at www.PizzaKit.com

DMI FUNDRAISING
Tell us your goal. We'll make it ours! DMI offers popular products with high group profits and exceptional customer service. Order online or call for consultation. Visit DMI Fundraising on BoosterWorld or at www.dmifundraising.com

THE LIMO SOURCE
TheLimoSource.com supports High School education through a one of a kind Formal Fundraising Program using its nationwide online limousine booking service. Visit TheLimoSource.com today!!! Visit The Limo Source on BoosterWorld or at www.TheLimoSource.com

ECOPHONES
EcoPhones’ cell phone recycling program offers a simple, no-cost, educational fundraising solution, while at the same time safeguarding the environment by reducing cellular waste. Visit Ecophones on BoosterWorld or at www.ecophones.com

THE MALL OF THE WORLD
The Mall of the World is a free fundraiser with over 1.5 Million products! Earn up to 50% commissions! Use as a primary or secondary fundraiser! Visit The Mall of the World on BoosterWorld or at CMG-WEB.com

CHRISTMAS FOREST
Since 1976, Christmas Forest has provided their successful fundraising plans using forest fresh Christmas wreaths. You can count on their 28 years of experience for your easy and profitable sales. Visit Christmas Forest on BoosterWorld or at www.christmasforest.com

DUTCH MILL BULBS
Exceed your fundraising goals selling risk free, guaranteed-to-bloom flower bulbs from Holland. Earn at least 50% profit with our spring and fall fundraising programs. Visit Dutch Mill Bulbs on BoosterWorld or at www.dutchmillbulbs.com

INSTYLE FUNDRAISING
Fundraising with high quality designer style sunglasses. Over 300 of the latest styles with UV400 protection. An unbeatable 200% return. Very easy to sell. Visit InStyle Fundraising on BoosterWorld or at www.instylefundraising.com

We are excited to have each of these tremendous company's onboard and look forward to the opportunity of helping you become involved in the tremendous products and services each provides.

We encourage you to visit each of them on BoosterWorld and check out the opportunities they provide to support your organizations.

FEDHEALTH

Since 1999 Fedhealth has been providing creative and collaborative programs that primarily benefit schools, volunteers and First Responders in the U.S. and Canada. Bill and Janet Liebsch are the company’s founders, authors, publishers and distributors of preparedness and health-related manuals.

Back in 1995 Bill envisioned developing a combination first aid and disaster preparedness handbook and figured a good way to get the material into the home would be through the children. Research shows most books of this nature do not combine both topics and to purchase books separately cost $15 each or more. And, if offered as a Fundraising product, family and friends would be more inclined to purchase it for themselves and as gifts, especially if sold for HALF the retail price.

By mid-1999 “IT’S A DISASTER! … and what are YOU gonna do about it?” was scheduled for mass production. The founders poured the bulk of their start-up money into a nationwide media campaign to announce the book release and spread the school fundraising opportunity through a syndicated TV show (with “millions of viewers”), press releases, etc. Unfortunately, the launch flopped with so many problems it was almost comical! Many expensive lessons were learned but proved to Bill and Janet the money would be better spent going back to schools and communities rather than on “the system”.

During 2000 and early-2001, Fedhealth notified city, county, state, provincial and Federal agencies and businesses about this educational “tool” and thousands of books were purchased, customized and given away to local communities. Several distributors and retail chains wanted to carry books but Fedhealth declined since books would have been offered to the public for under $10 (i.e. would have impacted the children’s Fundraising Program).

In addition to positive feedback from the field, many officials began sharing ideas with schools and businesses. Several agencies contributed data, others requested additional topics, and the 2nd Edition was released June 2001. That July, Fedhealth began offering cash and match donations back to First Responders’ volunteers as a “thank you” for their efforts.

The horrific 9/11/2001 attack hindered many First Responders’ attempts to share the educational Fundraiser with schools and others. Now hundreds of officials and volunteers are back spreading the word as new groups join in each week from the thousands of flyers Fedhealth has sent (and keeps sending).

Today, the continued threat of terrorist attacks and daily reports of disasters reinforce that people need to take personal responsibility for their own and their families’ safety. The more the public is prepared for disasters and emergencies, the less strain they place on local emergency services.

Fedhealth’s 240-page 3rd Edition helps individuals, families and companies "be aware… be prepared… and have a plan" for most types of emergencies, first aid needs, and natural or man-made disasters (including Terrorism) before they strike.

This is a fundraising project that can save a life! To learn more, please visit www.fedhealth.net and click on "Ultimate Fundraiser" or "Download Tools" ..

BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL BOOSTER CLUB

This month we cover topics #11 and #12

Behind every successfully funded athletic program, there is usually an active and thriving booster club helping to pave the way. Without a properly running support branch, athletic departments and alumni would be forced to constantly operate and support under a dark cloud of uncertainty, debt and cutbacks.

Booster clubs are an essential part of not only the fundraising process, but also the community process. The effectiveness and efficiency of an enthusiastic booster club can provide an excellent vehicle for community involvement and a perfect way to offset the rising costs afflicting athletic departments across the country.

However, having an effective booster club is much more than monthly meetings and money drives. It is about teamwork, responsibility, accountability and awareness.

Here are 15 of the most common mistakes (listed randomly) made by booster clubs across the nation. Each month we will provide expanded topic and tips for two (2) of the topics noted.

1	Senior parents running the booster club... (Covered in January's Issue)
2	Isolating a club... (Covered in January's Issue)
3	Conducting consecutive and/or multiple fundraisers... (Covered in February's Issue)
4	Lack of mission and vision statement... (Covered in February's Issue)
5	A lack of an Executive Booster Club... (Covered in March's Issue)
6	Gaining tax exempt 501(c)3 status... (Covered in March's Issue)
7	Accounting policies and procedures... (Covered in April's Issue)
8	Keeping in contact with friends, alumni and business supporters... (Covered in April's Issue)
9	Overstepping boundaries... (Covered in May's Issue)
10	Understanding the booster clubs job... (Covered in May's Issue)
11	Keeping the club compliant with state and federal guidelines... It’s estimated that each year approximately 65% of clubs who have registered with their state let their registration lapse and become invalid simply because they weren’t aware that they needed to submit annual renewal fees and updated information. Just like any organization that is formed to conduct business, insuring that your club is properly registered and compliant with both state and federal guidelines is a must. Tip: Make sure your club has developed a corporate book where your articles, by-laws, state and federal registration forms as well as minutes are all kept. Establish a location at the school where this information can be safely kept and accessed by your club.
12	Staying in-tune with district policies... Because of the continual change in club officers it is very common to find a booster club conducting its business without any understanding of the school districts policies or requirements. Tip: Before the start of school or the season schedule a meeting with your principal or activities director to discuss school district policies that effect your activities.
13	Establishing a working relationship with school administrators and coaches...
14	Lack of policies and procedures...
15	Outlining job descriptions and areas of responsibility...

EYE BENEFITS

EyeBenefits Offers Great Savings on
Eye Wear and Eye Care

EyeBenefits’ discount vision benefit program is designed to serve as a primary vision benefit or a supplement to any vision insurance for National Booster Club Association members and their families. Members can save up to 50% on eyewear, eye exams, Lasik and contact lenses (online contact lenses are close to wholesale pricing and offer free shipping).

EyeBenefits’ provider network includes over 9,500 optical store locations nationwide, located in rural and metropolitan areas. Network includes independent optical stores and major optical chain stores that include Eye Masters, For Eyes Optical, J.C. Penney Optical, Pearle Vision, Sears Optical and Wal* Mart Vision Centers. The vision program also includes discounts on LASIK surgery with refractive centers in selected markets across the United States.

Discounts on retail pricing include:
5% to 20% on exams
20% to 50% on frames
20% to 25% on eyeglass lenses
Close to wholesale pricing for online contact lenses (includes free shipping)
15% to 25% on LASIK

How to enroll:
Step 1- Go to website, www.eyebenefits.com
Step 2- Click on “Signup Online”, located upper right hand corner
Step 3- Enter Group Code: Booster and receive special rates of
$18 for single and $24 for family annual memberships

VENDOR OF THE MONTH

Our Vendor of the Month is ADVANCED ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

Youth Sports Performance Training
AAP provides cutting-edge conditioning and performance information to young athletes and coaches. Our goal is to build successful young people as well as athletes.

Advanced Athletic Performance. A sports conditioning company is dedicated to developing the complete athlete. Please visit www.aaptraining.net for more information.

Their website is www.aaptraining.net.

DO-IT YOURSELF FUNDRAISER OF THE MONTH

OFFICE MAX
Available throughout the United States. Organizations receive 2% of qualified purchases on Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Cards, and 3% for qualified purchases on the OfficeMax Credit Card. Details at your local OfficeMax store.

DEAR BOOSTER .....

Dear Booster,
I have been an active volunteer with my booster club for the past 3 years and will be leaving this year because my son graduates. Although I greatly enjoyed my involvement I am very disappointed that we will receive no recognition or thanks for all of the time and hard work we put in to help lead our booster club. I know this sounds like I am complaining and I don't want you to think I volunteered just to get a pat on the back, but why don't people appreciate the hard work we put into such a worthwhile cause?
Tayler P.
Cincinnati, OH

Dear Tayler,
Booster clubs seem to be seen by many as troublesome groups, or groups of parents who are only interested in helping "their" son or daughter, and not the entire program. Over the decades the lack of guidance and structure has caused a great number of people to simply ignore or shy away from booster clubs. Even a number of our school administrators fail to recognize or appreciate the value that a good booster club and its volunteers provide.

Three years of active support is a tremendous asset for any organization. You should be proud of yourself and the time you have given to helping your booster club. It's individuals such as yourself who will help to turn the tide of support so that recognition and appreciation will become a common part of doing a good job.

On behalf of the National Booster Club Association THANK YOU! We appreciate the hard work you put forth.

Send us your Dear Booster.... article and we will select one each month to share with the readers of Booster Trends. To submit your email send to: dearbooster@boosterclubs.org.

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTH

Vendor Spotlight falls on PIANO COMMANDO

Allegro Rainbow is a company that produces non-violent, musical, educational games that can give kids the joy of playing music, without the pain of practice. In a time where video and computer games have become violent, it is refreshing to find a company focused on programs designed to help educate and entertain our kids in a positive manner.

Piano Commando is a first class program and a must have for anyone looking to learn how to play the piano.

Their website is www.pianocommando.com. Take a look and be amazed.

SEEKING NATIONWIDE HELPERS

We still have a few openings left for the following positions:

Area Coordinators - The NBCA is now seeking individuals who would like to assist local clubs, teams and businesses. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone currently working with a club or team, looking for an opportunity to work part-time, or looking to help make a difference in your community. Coordinators will receive high commissions for introducing the association’s services to businesses, schools and parent organizations. This is an outstanding opportunity for any person who understands the role that extra-curricular activities play in shaping our society. If you would like to be considered for this position, please email your resume and cover letter. Incomplete applications cannot be considered. No telephone calls, please. Email us today at marketing@boosterclubs.org

City Directors - The NBCA is seeking a limited number of individuals to become City Directors. For more information visit our online City Director information section at: http://city.boosterclubs.org

Club Coordinators - The NBCA is seeking individuals who are currently working with or involved with booster clubs. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone currently working with a club or team who would like to turn the time you are spending into an opportunity to receive prizes, awards, recognition and compensation. Club Coordinators do not have to do anything more than you are currently doing. If you would like to be considered for the position of Club Coordinator, please email your name, club affiliation, city and state. No telephone calls, please. Email us today at marketing@boosterclubs.org

CLUB SURVEY RESULTS

In last month's issue we asked the following question:

How many hours a week do you spend supporting your booster club?

The following responses were received:

28%

Stated that they spend an average of 8 hours or more per month.

62%

Stated that they spend between 5 and 10 hours per month.

10%

Stated that they spend less than 5 hours per month.

To all of you that took the time to respond - thank you! Your responses help us to better understand how we can provide you support, guidance and assistance.

This month we would like to get your response to the following question:

GIVE US YOUR BEST BOOSTER TIP, POINTER OR IDEA, WE WILL SHARE A FEW NEXT MONTH.

Submit your answers now
We will report the results in next months Booster Trends e-newsletter.

ASSOCIATION INSURANCE MANAGEMENT

We Need What???

Let’s face it, everyone involved in your booster club is volunteering for the same reason…the kids. Even though you are placing your valuable time and numerous hours into making your organization the best that it can be, there are still certain risks that you are exposed to as a volunteer. What happens if a child slips and breaks an arm at your car wash fundraiser? Did you know that you and your booster club could be held responsible? You may not see that as a risk that you should be concerned with, but what if the parents of that child don’t have health insurance? They will be looking for someone to help with those expenses. After all, it was at your event that child was injured. In the event that the parents do turn to the booster club for support, will you be willing and ready to help out financially? A liability policy not only is a smart decision for your booster club, but could save you a lot of money and heartache in the end.

The National Booster Club Association has negotiated for you with AIM (Association Insurance Management) to come up with the most comprehensive and discounted insurance plan out there. They have been insuring parent teacher groups for over 15 years and currently protect over 9,000 groups nationwide. Along with providing liability policies, they also offer bonding policies, fundraising merchandise protection, and officer’s liability plans. If you have any questions or need any additional information, you may contact them at 1-800-876-4044.

FAST FACT

Fact of the month-
Failure happens when you loose focus of the goal.

Quote of the month-
"How far you go in life depends on you being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong. Because someday in life you will have been all of these."

- George Washington Carver, American Educator, Scientist

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Booster Trends is an online e newsletter provided by The National Booster Club Association. NBCA, BoosterWorld and Booster Trends are trademarks of The National Booster Club Association. All rights reserved. Copyright© 2002-2004.

National Booster Club Association
100 N. Morain St., #208
Kennewick, WA 99336
info@boosterclubs.org
509-735-2878
Fax: 509-735-4917