It’s worth a nickel
Dear Joe Solmonese
Dear Joe,
Thank you so much for your regular and ongoing correspondence about my Human Rights Campaign membership. I’m sorry that I have you so distraught over my failure to make a contribution this year, but really, I have my reasons.
You see, since you became President of the HRC, you only ever call for one thing: money. You never call to see how I am, or just tell me some great news, or ask me to take action. There’s always that sneaky little “how ’bout a donation” somewhere in the message.
It makes me feel cheap, and used.
I’d also like to know where I can update my records with you. You see, for about six months now I’ve been trying to get you to take my former partner’s name off of my record. I’ve been all over your web site, to no avail.
I did finally get you to stop sending me so many emails. But even that was a chore, and required following way too many unsubscribe links.
If you decide to change your style of communications so that I feel appreciated, instead of just like a checkbook, and if you decide to make it easy for me to manage the information you have about me via your web site, I’ll think about coming back.
I do appreciate everything you and the HRC do to promote equal rights for all Americans. I just don’t think I can financially support you until you get yourselves organized.
5 Responses to Dear Joe Solmonese
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Dear Member #1293049
Thank you for showing your support of the HRC by blogging about our cause. Perhaps you’d like to show even more support by making a cash donation?
We had our Twin Cities HRC Gala Dinner here on Saturday night. You’re experience with HRC hasn’t been mine. Maybe it is because I’m a member of Federal Club. Maybe it’s because Joe gets money from me on a monthly basis. Maybe it’s because of the general feel of HRC in the Twin Cities. But I’d like to think that HRC can do better by you. Can I share your blog posting with some HRC friends of mine (Board of Governor-types)? I feel like HRC does a lot of work and communicates it well, but if that isn’t your experience, I’d like to change it.
@Frank, that’s exactly how I feel.
@Jared, of course you may… it’s certainly an open letter! I’m glad your experience has been better than mine.
I know we all feel like walking ATMs for multiple causes. I sure do sometimes. But Joe and his team are doing their jobs in a big way, and part of that job is constantly seeking donations. The donations that fund HRC’s advocacy, lobbying, education programs, the Workplace Project, Family Project, Faith & Religion Project, Safe Schools Program, and so much more. My experience with this staff in DC always leaves me wanting to raise even more funds. They work long days for modest pay, but they stay smart, energized and positive. I know we can do a better job of communicating with members like you, but meet us half way – don’t take the constant fundraising personally. It’s part of the job we’re supposed to be doing — it funds the machine that works for our equality every day. Even on the days when we don’t think about it for even a minute, HRC is still faithfully, relentlessly on the job.
It’s okay if you don’t donate to HRC, but stay engaged in the fight for equality, wherever you choose to.
-Les
HRC Volunteer, Mpls, MN
Les, thanks for your 2¢ on this. I recognize the need to raise funds, and I understand that HRC is doing its best while fighting the good fight.
Still, I don’t feel nearly so… tread upon, perhaps? by other GLBT groups.