Unusual appeal. . .hard funding

Raising almost $9 million in 2008 to underwrite our work presents a major challenge.

A few things are working against us.

Historically, funding for non-profits trends downward during election years. Don't ask me why, but this is what the experts tell us. For the record, this has not been our experience here. I am hoping we will continue to buck the averages.

Then, the economy seems headed for the cellar! Already donors are telling us that their personal financial planning will likely involve trimming the line item marked "Charitable Donations" in their budgets.

No matter what the financial climate from year to year, there are some financial needs that are very hard to fund due to their special, unique and "indirect" nature.

Try this one on.

Over the past year we have been working hard to build an auto, truck, RV and boat resale business as a way to raise unrestricted funds to pour back into our operations budget. We have had considerable success, especially in view of the fact that we have put very little in the way of funding into the project and we've only been at it a short time. Our return on investment has been surprising.

One thing we have learned. Auto donations follow directly on our advertising efforts. Thanks to a supporter who owns a billboard company, we have had great responses and results.

Now we intend to plaster our food trucks with advertising for CDM Cars. The cost to paint our two large trucks: right at $6,000.

Hard funds to raise. But, funds for a project that will deliver much more funding. Such "investment" philanthropy is not for everyone.

Anyone out there who would be willing to help us with this project?

Let us know or just send your checks to me at: "Truck Project," c/o Larry James, Central Dallas Ministries, P. O. Box 710385, Dallas, TX 75371-0385 or go online at http://www.centraldallasministries.org/ and donate there--be sure and note that you are giving for the special CDM Cars project.

We'll see.

[I've posted the art work for you to see.]