Friday, January 7, 2011

Questions you may be asked by potential donors:

Questions with answers by Executive Director Julianne Idlet

1.  How does CYCLE Kids measure the impact of the program (beyond the number of kids enrolled)?
We do pre and post assessments to look at what the children are learning, and require each child to submit an essay telling us what it means to be a CYCLE Kid.

2.  What percentage of contributions are spent on overhead v. the program?
Our overhead is very low - approximately 80% of every dollar goes to the program and the children.  On average, less than 20% of contributions go towards overhead.  Unfortunately overhead is part of running any business.  CYCLE Kids makes an effort to find grants and pro-bono services specific to supporting our overhead needs.

3.  What efforts are made to purchase material from cheaper sources to maximize outreach.  What 5 of materials are donated vs. purchased?
Our discount with Specialized is below dealer cost.  Part of the success of the program comes from providing equipment that is well made and will hold up to the abuse of 4th and 5th grade students.  Programs we gave equipment to six years ago are still using everything and have had very little need for repair.  Our curriculum is designed pro-bono, and our printing is at a discount.  Given in kind support we receive, I'd estimate that 30% of materials for a program are donated.  I have worked very hard to keep costs down and at the same time to deliver a quality program.

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