Blog Post 3

On Wednesday the 18th my partner and I attended the 2k for VA event. Here we learned about how Sub Zero Mission organizes all of their various events. They have a set table layout for free merchandise and informational pamphlets. We set up the table accordingly and sat with the other SZM members. Here we spoke to veterans and family members and other passersby about the goals of SZM.


We participated in this event as well, doing the 2k twice while we were there. 


In a sort of unfortunate way, we learned the importance of publicity for events like this. Very few people attended due to a mistake made in the public relations side of things. As we were there, one of the managers of SZM realized this and mentioned to us that there should have been more social media posts and perhaps a sign by the road to indicate the event.


Nonetheless, the event was still successful and provided us with insight on the day to day operations of SZM in the summer months.


Throughout the entire week we packed thank you letters for various military posts who had supported SZM in one way or another. In all we packed over 300 letters. Each included two stickers, a pamphlet, a business card, and a printed and signed thank you letter. 


The importance of this process was highlighted in a staff meeting we attended on Tuesday. Al Raddatz informed us that they have a 100% thanking policy. Every donor or supporter whom they have the contact information for is thanked directly for their support. This builds a positive relationship with donors and often helps with continued support.


Finally, something I’ve noticed is that most people have excellent intentions when it comes to charities like this but often don’t listen to what the charity really needs. Time and time again we opened the donations bin and found only clothing. SZM does not and has never accepted clothing donations. In fact, there's a bin in the parking lot specifically for clothing donations that goes to other organizations. Even when Al would tell donors directly exactly the items SZM accepts, stating clearly it does not include clothing, we’d still find hoodies and jeans in the cases they handed us. 


It was because of this that I re-examined my own actions and my own willingness to listen to those whom I thought I was helping.

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