How many of us have thought of the importance of sponsors to our organization? The more we become a customer of our organization, the more we realize just how important sponsors are. Our premier event, The Gallery of Superb Printing, wouldn’t have the worldwide impact it now enjoys, without sponsors. Our International Conventions would not be as economic, in comparison to other organizations, as they are, thanks to sponsorship. The International Governors wouldn’t receive any reimbursement for meeting attendance, if we had no sponsors. In addition, one huge benefit derived from sponsorship is CraftNet. We wouldn’t have the database up and running along with all of the other membership enhancements on CraftNet, if we didn’t have any sponsors. The sponsors we have thus far are due to the hard work of just a few dedicated members.

 Imagine how much more we would be able to accomplish with more sponsors. All of us know of a company that would love to sponsor a worldwide organization. All it takes is talking to the right company individual. Past International Chairman Tony Sarubbi often asks us to “think outside of the box”. There are companies that we support with our business, perhaps becoming an International sponsor would add to their recognition as well as helping the IAPHC grow. What about contacting a shipping company, most of us ship some or all of our finished products. How about a hotel or restaurant chain, most of our clubs have meetings in hotels or restaurants, the list potential sponsors goes on and on. The point of this is that anyone we come in contact with in our everyday work life, is a potential sponsor. All we have to do is ask. Many times it takes more than one contact to have a potential sponsor realize the benefits of sponsorship. I always made it a practice to buy from companies that sponsor our organization. Like they say one hand washes the other.

 Income into the IAPHC can be demonstrated in the following manner. Think of all income being a three legged stool, with one leg Membership (dues), one leg Gallery (entry fees), and the third leg Sponsorship. Take anyone of the legs away and it would be difficult balancing with just the two remaining legs. We have heard how important it is to increase the number of new members and to retain current members. But, just as important, is our Gallery of Superb Printing. The Gallery is an event in which we can all participate. Think of the potential impact on our organization if every member submitted or had a company submit just one entry. That would make this years Gallery the most successful to date. This is not a difficult task. Gallery brings notoriety to the IAPHC and allows our members and headquarters staff an easier time when approaching individuals, companies and potential sponsors to become part of the IAPHC.

 Remember to think sponsorship, gallery and the IAPHC and always be positive and enthusiastic.