Sad news, eco-fans.
Those of you receiving our monthly newsletter will have noted Anthony’s solemn message outlining our financial plight. It is with heavy heart that we confess to a £30,000 shortfall in our budget – lesson one, it would seem, of Trying To Raise A Quarter Of A Million Pounds In A Recession.
The team members travelling to Australia – a mere 15 of us – are now facing the prospect of becoming responsible for this debt individually; potentially £2000 each. That’s on top of our university fees and student loans, which will need paying back. With current graduate debt at an average of £13,000, looking set to soar to £23,000 in future years thanks to the top-up fees system, getting landed with extra, unexpected, debt, is not an appealing prospect.
So we look to you, our friends, to help us out at this critical stage. We hope you will agree that a massive amount of work has gone into the project this year, already resulting in some fantastic accomplishments. So many people have put so much into this project, including, in several cases, a significant quantity of their own money. Team members have, in the past, risen to the level of silver sponsors. It would be a tragedy if our fundamental aim of racing in Australia could not be achieved.
Personal donations will be recognised by our Friends of CUER scheme – any amount you are able to offer will be very gratefully received. If everyone who reads this blog gave £20, we would be a long way towards solving our problems! To donate online, or to take advantage of our Gift Aid option, please visit www.cuer.co.uk/donate or email friends@cuer.co.uk
Corporate sponsors should note that sponsorship packages are still available at all levels. For further information about sponsorship, please visit www.cuer.co.uk/sponsors or email sponsorship@cuer.co.uk
By this stage we have come to understand that, much as we would like to, we cannot bear this burden alone. This is a request for help in any and all forms. People know people who know People – pursue your contacts! Use a bit of persuasion! Already we are £6000 closer to our target, and with your help, we will hopefully reach it. This blog will carry a running total of the amount raised so far, so that everyone can see how much work there is to be done. Please don’t wait for others to donate
As we say here in the ‘bridge: GET KEEN!
- The team
