I have to say that I think it shows enourmous generosity on behalf of some of the members here who are offering up some of their spare parts for sale then donating the receipts to LEC to fund its ongoing endeavours. For example, I just bought a part of kuching who then donated the funds to LEC. Some folks already offer up their time (which we should always be conscious of and never take for granted) which I'm sure is just as important as cold hard cash to the ongoing operations of LEC. We should ALL feel terribly indebted.
However, upon reflection, it dawned on me that it really does take money to keep LEC going. Just to keep the site running involves hosting fees, domain name ownership fees, and probably some other fees I'm not aware of. That doesn't include the costs to be present at Donington and other "events" or activities that we, the members, all drive benefit or enjoyment from.
Who's covering these costs????? Is it fair that a few people in LEC should shoulder the burden themselves as well as donate their time???? I think everyone here would have to say no. Yet, I've never once seen any admin person ask for donations outright.
Now, everyone here has received (or can potentially receive) MASSIVE amounts of knowledge, technical expertise, access to manuals, etc. The community here providses levels of "service" to its members that even Lotus would blush at. Consequently, I'd like to make 2 suggestions and seek some feedback from the members on them.
1. Post a link at the top of the page that allows people who want to donate to be able to do so. This isn't like handing the plate around. I'm not suggesting that LEC run around to its members asking for money. But, LEC NEEDS money - there's no two ways about it. Its just the way things are. So, why not create a way to let those who feel they want to give back to the community and LEC to do so?
2, In times of need (either due to cash shortage or special "projects" or events) make an announcement on the forum that LEC is seeking funds for whatever event or reason is foremost on the schedule. Donations can be time, money or materials. But, if things are needed, then they are needed and LEC should be communicating this to its members. Tell us exactly what's needed (including the amount of money) and let us donate though a special donation link related to that event.
Now, to be clear, I'm not trying to guilt people into giving their money away. No one can know or comment on anyone else's personal financial position nor insist that they give money. A link at the top of the page allows people to donate in relative anonymity and to do so without prodding by the admin. I can't imagine what would happen if, one day, someone had to annouce that LEC would have to shut down due to lack of funds. I'd hope there'd be a line up of people with open cheque books. Or, if there wasn't going to be a stand at Donington.
I've no idea what the financial situation is with LEC but I wouldn't want it to ever get to the point where that type of decision was even being contemplated. I'd bet that if every member donated $10 (or the equivalent), that'd go a long way. Some might donate more, some less. No problem, you give what you can and feel like giving. Its all up to you.
Comments?