Some Things to Consider for the 2009 Season

[Pat Arnold]

Originally Posted by Chris Fultz

...Students –The impact is on big business, small business and everything in between.

...Try to understand their challenges and be understanding if the donation you receive is a little smaller, or if they simply say “we are not able to support you this year” due to … .

And, whatever their level of support, be sure you are thanking them for helping your team.

What an important topic. When businesses (or mentors) go unthanked or unrecognized, their generousity often goes elsewhere even in the best of economies. In the current market, team understanding of their community's issues & needs is critical.

To create a strong partnership with sponsors (& your community) involve your team & provide help when possible. From assisting a small business with website issues, to helping at a company's employee picnic, to assisting with a business's canned food drive, to helping paint a store-front; teams have man/student power to contribute. It allows others to see the positive impact of FIRST teams & its value for your community's investment (beyond the inspiration of future technologists).

So...I guess my point is that team efforts invested in areas usually associated with the Chairman'a Award are even more critical this year! Don't just build a robot; build up your community.