Help Needed

I first became aware of the BMPT a number of years ago almost entirely due
to this forum and, for much of that time; it represented my only contact
with the trust. I suspect that many of you reading this will be in a
similar position. Having recently had the opportunity to become involved in
a number of trust events, I have realised that, like all such organisations,
nearly all the active work is carried out by a very small nucleus of
dedicated volunteers. In addition, many of those who are actively involved
do not use the internet and have little or no connection with the
enthusiastic network represented by this forum.

I appreciate that, by its nature, a web forum is able to actively involve
people from a wide geographical area who are unable to dedicate time on a
regular basis to restore / maintain / run the boats but I strongly believe
that we all able to help in different ways.

As you are no doubt aware, one of the biggest challenges facing the trust is
the lack of a permanent base allowing unrestricted public access.
Consequently it is difficult to maintain the profile of the trust in the
mind of the public which in turn makes fundraising very difficult. I truly
believe that the trusts boats are fantastic assets which are capable of
bringing in money but to do this requires our help. I have seen comments
such as "I wish I could do more to help" many times on these pages. This is
not just another appeal for cash (although if you have more than you know
what to do with then I'm sure the trust would find a good use for it!) This
is a request for time and thinking power. Ways you can help are as diverse
as listing surplus items on Ebay, placing flyers on your work noticeboard or
acting as a "point of contact" on the end of a telephone. In particular we
need people to think of good fundraising ideas which can raise money in the
most efficient manner with respect of the time required from the local
active volunteers. e.g. It takes a lot longer to raise money by offering
boat rides at £5 a time than it would to take a party to view Cowes week
fireworks for £500+. Obviously there will be obstacles and questions but if
anyone has good ideas for fundraising then please let me know either by PM or at bmpt@earlepayne.com

Lastly I would like to recommend that those who are able to come and "have a
go" on the boats to do so; You WILL enjoy yourselves.


Cheers

Gareth

Edited by Pioneer - 25 September 2008 at 10:45pm