Value for Value Model

[White_Comanche]

I propose using the 'Value-for-Value' model for Comanche Club. We all get very useful information on here, so why not send some value back? It can be whatever amount, and at anytime.

 

In short, YOU give support for what YOU get out of CC.

 

The overall framework of CC will remain unchanged... and AS-IS in terms of functionality... and it being Totally FREE for ALL users.

 

— But what will be different is Pete, and his crew will now have a level of support for Improvements, Features, Stability, etc.

[White_Comanche]

FYI — Inspiration for this model came from the podcast world. I've been listening to two long-running shows that continue to operate successfully this way. One is over 20 years old, and the other is well over 10.

 

Donation Driven... in the form of TIME, TALENT or TREASURE

[hgeranium]

That's why I like the incentives for donation that Pete has like the stickers/magnets/posters. What about some more items? Maybe some handcrafted stuff from our resident hobby crafters? I think I've seen one guy make a Comanche clock for another member. I know the logistics of balancing production cost and profit with the site kickback would be complicated but I'd be happy to support a member and the site simultaneously while also getting a cool trinket/craft. Just a thought.

[White_Comanche]

The fundamental idea behind Value for Value is the expression of giving back. Once you are invested into something like Comanche Club, you give support — but are not expecting something material back in return.

 

Once you give support, you have a sense of ownership and belonging. End result is that you enjoy, and get more out of CC simply because of your investment...

 

…Whether that be Time helping people, applying a unique Talent, or by sending Treasure in the form of donations.

[hgeranium]

How does this model differ from simply asking people to donate when/if they can?

[hgeranium]

The way that I see it, the people that are willing and able to donate WILL donate but that’s likely an incredibly low subset of people. Adding incentives will only help as to bring the average user that would otherwise not donate to help out. Fundraisers for school events or Girl Scouts or something are incredibly successful in real life, so I don’t think there’s anything inherently wrong with it. Fundraiser show that, even if the buyer knows they’re buying overpriced stuff, they’re at least getting something while also supporting that organization. It’s a win-win. 
 

I’m taking 18 hours in school, working full time paying rent and a mortgage. It’s hard for me to justify just giving my money away in the situation I’m in right now, but it’s a little more justifiable if I’m getting some stickers or a little trinket. 
 

I just have trouble seeing the difference between your model and just asking for donations. No malice either, I’m just trying to reason. I would be willing to bet that Pete has gotten more money from stickers and posters than just straight up donations (unless some wealthy benefactor has donated a bunch of money to him at one point, but I would consider that a fringe case)

[White_Comanche]

The subtle difference is that Value for Value is a community based support model. This means members of Comanche Club contribute both financially and through volunteerism. If someone is getting value from using CC, then they would send value back in the form of Time, Talent or Treasure.

 

You can think of this as putting money in the plate when it's passed around at church. Because everything is still free, there will always be guests and members that free load. From my experience learning about this model, roughly 10% only contribute cash. But that 10% is way more than nothing.

 

I'm thinking that Value for Value or 'V4V' could be baked into Comanche Club — as a contributing community. Again, it's not always in the form of cash.

 

Bottom of the landing page (home) there could be a small, but noticeable button that links users to this philosophy.

 

Once inside, there would be a method of donating either via Paypal, Credit Card, Venmo, etc.

 

45 minutes ago, hgeranium said:

would be willing to bet that Pete has gotten more money from stickers and posters than just straight up donations

 

I agree with you, and thanks for the interest in exploring this idea. Perhaps there could be LEVELS. Such as a contributing cash up to, or past a certain level could get you some sticker, posters, etc... For example, $7, $12, $20.

 

Yes, perhaps most would like something back in return. If contributing a little, you support CC, and feel good doing so. But if donating to a certain level then you'd get something back in return.

[hgeranium]

Just now, White_Comanche said:.

Bottom of the landing page (home) there could be a small, but noticeable button that links users to this philosophy.

 

Once inside, there would be a method of donating either via Paypal, Credit Card, Venmo, etc.

This is a great idea. I think it’ll passively get more donations just giving people an easier avenue of donation rather than having to message Pete for his PayPal

[Pete M]

I just try to keep the bills to a minimum so the site can remain free for members and free from ads.    if anyone wants to contribute, the paypal is ComancheClub@hotmail.com  other methods are available if needed.

 

but this coding issue for auto-shrinking the photos needs to be addressed.    we might need a pro to step in, but we're not there quite yet.