Pittsfield Parade Committee Makes Plea for Donations
All entries need to be in by May 15 to meet printing deadlinesPITTSFIELD, Mass. - The Pittsfield Parade Committee has kicked off the 2009 Parade Fundraising campaign and is looking to raise $85,000 to underwrite the costs of the annual event. Donations to be advertised in annual parade booklet are needed by June 1, 2009 to meet printing deadlines and donations will be accepted until the Fourth of July.
As in any year, almost half of the funding comes from public donations, and half from corporate business sponsors. With this difficult financial climate in the northeast, Parade Coordinator, Peter Marchetti is hoping for the best and asking contributors to dig deep into their pockets. “We always need new sponsors to replace those who can no longer afford to support the parade. This year is no different. A few of our larger sponsors have had to either reduce their support or end it entirely. For us to maintain funding levels we need to reach out to individuals and new companies for help.”
Marchetti said, “As the largest annual event in Berkshire County, with over 100,000 attendees, this is a great chance to support an historic event and reach a large audience.” The Parade Committee prints and distributes over 30,000 program booklets via the Berkshire Eagle on the days prior to the 4th of July. Groups and companies can also enter a unit in the parade, at no charge.
Marchetti explains, “We are looking for new sponsors who can become “Boosters” with a simple $50 donation. A $100 donation will give sponsors a business card-sized ad in the parade program book. Larger contributors are allocated larger ad space and “Sponsor Banners” in the line of march are given to those who donate $750 or more.
The Pittsfield Parade Committee is an all-volunteer group, a 501(c)3, non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible.
Marchetti said, “The goal is to always have next year’s parade money in the bank. Even in tough economic times, Pittsfield is still “On the Move” and the parade is still a time-honored tradition in the Berkshires. We urge small businesses and new sponsors, and our ever faithful public supporters to help us keep this event a reality.”
The theme of the 2009 parade is “On The Move.” For more information call 447-7763. All parade entries must be in by May 15th. Visit the website at www.pittsfieldparade.com to obtain an application.
The Pittsfield Parade Committee, Inc. -- has grown in size, spirit, and determination. Please send donations to Pittsfield Parade Committee Inc, PO Box 1738, Pittsfield MA 01202.
