Recently several local theater groups were awarded $20,000
from Chase Bank. It was an online contest with each group gathering votes from
their followers and friends via social networking sites.
They worked the system well and got the reward; $20, 000
from Chase Bank and Chase Bank got lots of names and e-mails. Bottom line: a
lot of Chicago non-profit theaters are now a lot richer. (For more information and who took the $250,000 prize, please click here.)
So, now, the question is What To Do With $20,000?
Here is some completely unwanted, unsolicited, unwarranted
advice... and remember Jack Adams who said, "If it's free it's advice; if you pay
it's counseling; if you can use either one, it's a miracle."
-
Save it. Use it as the basis for a trust fund
going towards buying a space (or expanding an existing one.) Own, don't rent.
As ferocious and personal as the soliciting was,
let the gratitude be equal.
-
Begin a small and gradual process of
compensating your performers. Offer them an option of donating their "pay" back
into the theater and keep track of it (just for bragging rights--it will also
encourage others to do the same.) It's a virtual re-gifting that benefits both
the organization and individuals.
-
Take more risks. Instead of new versions of
previous or existing shows, experiment with something brand new. Do something
risky!
-
Commission something. Ask someone outside of
your organization to create something specifically for your group. Exploit the
natural and personnel resources available in Chicago.
Congratulations to all the winning groups!
Now, please, vote for me in the Bourdain Medium Raw essay
contest!
Thank you.
Filed under: Chicago
Tags: Anthony Bourdain, Charity, Chase Bank, JP Morgan
