Getting Ready

I don't know why I stress so about asking for help. Its not hard, really. Perhaps it is that darn American independence thing. Perhaps it is being the oldest girl of eight children. Perhaps its just my character. I don't know, but reaching out for help is actually a good thing.

In this case, I needed more door prizes for our Open House event. The hockey stick was great, but I wanted to be able to give a few more prizes. This required asking for donations from local businesses. With Development's blessings, I selected four local businesses to approach. Not having done much of this sort of thing, I used the head on frontal approach.

I entered the first establishment and asked to speak to the manager. The girl behind the counter blinked, got a serious look on her face, and scurried off to find the head honcho. She must have thought I was going to complain or make a scene. The manager took her time about appearing, and I realized I should have called and made an appointment, but there was no back tracking now.

I introduced myself and explained about our Open House and what I was looking for. She was more than happy to accommodate, asking only a letter describing the event in return. Wow! That was easy! Emboldened, I entered the next place. They too were more than happy to help and requested a letter for their files. This wasn't so hard after all.

By the time I got to the third place, it was nearing the lunch hour, and the manager glanced in my direction, told me it was a bad time, and to come back later in the afternoon. Yikes! Common sense. I should have realized. A learning experience. When all was said and done, I had collected an excellent supply of door prizes from five local institutions, and had been well received by all, invited to come again, urged to have others from campus contact them.

I was definitely encouraged. Sure hope the students come!