Tonight's picture was taken in September of 2003. At a year and a half old, Mattie migrated to his high chair. It wasn't his favorite place to be. Which was why he literally ate in his car seat for the first several months of his life. However, we worked on making high chair time fun. As long as we engaged Mattie's mind, then he would comply with eating. Otherwise, forget it!!! One of Mattie's favorite foods believe it or not was oatmeal. He not only liked it as a baby, but he ate it every day of life until he was diagnosed with cancer.
Quote of the day: In union there is strength. ~ Aesop
Mattie Miracle is planning its first evening event on Thursday, November 8th. Many of our supporters have been encouraging us to host such an event for years. But to bring such a party into fruition requires time, energy, and resources. I have been hesitant to do such an event because I felt there needed to be a draw to attract potential supporters to this event. The event is not being held for our current supporters, but instead, we have a host committee assembled of current supporters who are working through their networks to invite friends to this event.
I had a second meeting with our host committee today and I have to say I am very fortunate to have friends devoted and motivated to support our Foundation. Many things have aligned this year with a board member's family opening his home to host this event, and another board member offering us free tastings from his DC bourbon distillery. Instead of us going to the distillery, the distillery is coming to Alexandria, VA. I also think that Mattie Miracle is developing a solid reputation in the community, in that now we have reached the point that such an event makes sense. We have a true national platform and initiative and it is our hope that others will want to hear about it and support us.
With the guidance of host committee, we have now officially turned this event into a fundraiser, with an $150 donation fee per person to attend. I was hesitant to do this at first, but given the insights from the committee, I changed my mind. Especially since this will be a costly event to host, I would hate to spend our own personal money, and then not generate anything for the Foundation. So I was convinced.
However, I am working through the details and today I sent out a request for live musicians to perform at our event. I love Gigmasters and typically have found wonderful vendors who are willing to work with us, many pro bono. However, I can't tell you the prices I am being quoted per hour by these musicians! They range from $900 to over $1,200! Mind you this is asking them to be flexible with us on their fees considering we are a public charity and are trying to raise money to support children with cancer. That apparently did not matter. All I can say is wow!
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