FUNDRAISER TIME! The Site Is In Major Need Of Your Immediate Help!

** FINAL UPDATE **
ON
FUNDRAISER TOTAL



Save the BRS Fundraiser_small.png

Save the BRS Fundraiser

The Site is in Major Need of Your Immediate Help!


The site is old, outdated, broken, and at risk. Due to the havoc Covid has taken on our lives and bank accounts, we are way behind in raising funds (2016 was our last) to keep the site going...but, as far as I'm concerned, the BRS takes a back seat when it comes to people's health and livelihoods which are always most important.

But it's time. The site is nearing critical condition and needs to be upgraded both in terms of its platform/OS software, along with some of its modules, and the server it sits on (an old coot that will soon be retired, I'm sure).

If we are not able to raise the amounts needed in a timely manner (meaning before she croaks), then it's very possible that after 13 years, we may need to just shut her down. She's had a nice, long run after all. I'd like to hear your thoughts on this below.

The site migration to a new server will cost an additional $60 USD per month/$720 per year; we currently pay $100/$1,200. I'm thinking the software upgrades could be at least $2,500 - $3,000. (With inflation the cost may go up still.)


Support Your Club
pixel.gif



BRS Donations QR Code.png


Here's the usual spiel:

Dear Friends,

The Barefoot Runners Society needs your support.

As you know, the BRS is funded and operated solely by its members. A modest income from advertising and tee shirt sales no longer covers the monthly costs for running and maintaining the site. Barefoot and minimalist running at the BRS is doing quite well, although with Covid in the midst, we did take a small slow-down (site hits are still quite impressive to me, considering). Site hosting, support, maintenance, enhancements, and upgrades all cost money. In addition, the BRS has other bills that need to be covered, for example, annual reports and filing fees, tax preparation, taxes, etc. Yet, we are committed to keeping the site free.

The BRS is the most visited barefoot and minimalist running site around because your kindness has enabled it to be #1. In order to maintain the level of quality you have come to appreciate and improve upon the functionality of the site, we need your continued help. Your donations will go far to allow the BRS to stay afloat, reach more potential members, and continue to grow.

We don't want to boast, but we do think we offer our members quite a range of services and content:

Forums:
The most active forums going on barefoot and minimalist talk. Learn and grow with other members, new and veteran alike, as you transition to healthy running. We have forums for Barefoot & Minimalist Running; Ultra Running; Ask the Docs; Gear & Footwear; Health, Nutrition, Injuries & Medical Conditions; Mileage Reporting; New Member Introductions; Races & Events; the Barefoot Pub; and more.


Giveaway Contests:
Simply post in the contest thread in the Gear & Footwear forum for you chance to win! We have giveaways for all types of minshoes. Check the site to see what we have scored for you! If you are a Donating Member, then your chances to win increase depending on your donation amount. See below for more info.


Chapter Clubs:
Join in on group runs and races with other members in your area, or head up a chapter in your area and arrange meetups.


Calendar of Events (been kinda lacking lately to be honest):
Stay informed on the barefoot and minimalist running, racing, and meetup events taking place around the country, in your area, and where you may be traveling to.


Ask the Docs Forum:
We have real doctors "on-call" to answer your questions about your barefoot and minimalist running and living health.


Member Map (one of those items that broke and needs to be fixed):
Put yourself on the map, and locate friends and mentors in your area to run with.


Map of Barefoot-Friendly Doctors & Specialists:
Find a doctor or specialist near you who won't treat you like an outcast for your running-style, or you can share those barefoot-friendly docs you learn of with the rest of us.


Map of Barefoot Running Instructors:
For those who need an extra bit of help and some face-to-face instruction.


Product Reviews:
Share your experiences and rate a product you may have tested--gear & footwear--and read what others are saying about products you may be interested in buying.


Course Reviews:
Rate a course, trail, or race on barefoot friendliness you have experienced, so others will know what to expect should they want to run it too.


Home Page News:
Stay informed on the latest in barefoot and minimalist running and the news that impacts our sport.


Blogging:
Share your experiences with others or learn more about your friends’ personal triumphs and trials in an all-inclusive place.


Library (under construction but really needing a volunteer to step up and take it on):
Review our Library, fast becoming THE go-to source for academic research and info on the benefits of barefoot and minimalist running, review how-to instructionals, and learn safe transitioning through Barefoot Running 101. (hopefully, being added back soon...)


Mileage Clubs & Mileage Reporting:
Be inspired and motivated by logging your barefoot and/or minimalist running miles and inspire and motivate others along the way. Earn a merit award at the end of the year to keep as a memento of your hard work and efforts.


International Barefoot Running DayTM (IBRDTM) (a great BRS event that will be on its own come 2023):
On the first Sunday in May each year, barefoot runners from all over the world get together to share camaraderie, express unity, and share with the world an alternative, viable way to run.


Stomp of ApprovalTM Program:
The BRS’s Stomp of Approval
TM is given to those individuals, organizations, and running events that show support for barefoot and minimalist running to display on their sites.

Communication:
Communicate with other members through private messaging.



For those who donate monetarily to the BRS, we have a special donor footprint that can be added to your profile's signature which will appear under your posts, so everyone who visits the site will know that you are a financial contributor to the BRS.

The BRS is a supportive, international community of barefoot and minimally-shod runners. All donation amounts are truly appreciated. Consider the cost of a pair of shoes that you no longer have to buy. Consider the amount you give to your favorite magazine for a subscription. If you feel the Barefoot Runners Society has enhanced your life and your running experience, please donate by clicking the Donate button below. It's for a good cause, and with your help, we are changing the running world one odd look at a time!


Donation Levels:

$1 - $24 gets you a Pinky Toe (one toe)
$25 - $49 gets you a Ring Toe (two toes)
$50 - $74 gets you a Middle Toe (three toes)
$75 - $99 gets you a Morton's Toe (Yikes!) (four toes)
$100 + gets you the Big Toe! (five toes)


Support Your Club
pixel.gif



BRS Donations QR Code.png


The BRS Mission:
• To offer resources that unite barefoot and minimalist runners from around the world;
• To promote barefoot running and minimalist running around the world and at race events as a competitive sport;
• To educate the running public on the health benefits of barefoot and minimalist running;
• To dispel the myths associated with barefoot running that negatively impact the sport.

FILING STATUS:
The Barefoot Runners Society is a running club registered in Georgia as an LLC. We are no longer a non-profit corporation registered in Florida because we no longer have a registered agent living in Florida (which is required to file an Annual Report); the cost to file for federal 501c3 non-profit status at this time is too expensive; and filing corporate taxes are too high. Once we have the funds and the time is right and the purpose warranted, we will work toward filing for federal 501c3 status.


No one at the Barefoot Runners Society receives a wage, and all efforts are voluntary; many of our members volunteer their time in some way or another to support our running club. Some have stepped up to lead a chapter club in their area, some have taken on roles from administering the site, moderating the forums, writing articles, creating artwork, managing the Library, etc., while others have made monetary donations. Every little bit helps to keep our club going and growing. We all must do our part. If the BRS has made an impact in your life and if you believe in what we are doing here and can contribute in some way, we would more than appreciate it. Please locate the Donate Button above or email [email protected] for more info on how you can help your club.


Financial Summaries for the previous years (including donation totals) can be found here: http://thebarefootrunners.org/library-articles/finanical-summary.24/

More info about donations/purchases on or through the site can be found here: https://www.thebarefootrunners.org/threads/contributions-please.20337/#post-187735
All prior donation totals can be found here:
 
While my running has been curtailed by various minor injuries and other issues over the last couple years, and I haven't been very active on this site, I still maintain an almost completely barefoot lifestyle and really enjoy this site for the friendly discussions and information exchange. TJ - you do a wonderful job maintaining this site despite server and OS issues, and I hope it will be able to continue. I made my contribution today!

Step up fellow barefooters and help out TJ! Keep this site alive!
 
While my running has been curtailed by various minor injuries and other issues over the last couple years, and I haven't been very active on this site, I still maintain an almost completely barefoot lifestyle and really enjoy this site for the friendly discussions and information exchange. TJ - you do a wonderful job maintaining this site despite server and OS issues, and I hope it will be able to continue. I made my contribution today!

Step up fellow barefooters and help out TJ! Keep this site alive!
Thank you so much, Sailor! We couldn’t do this without you!
 
How about adding a goal raising thermometer on the front page and get people to pledge.
I've thought about that. I don't think we'd ever make it near that amount though...3K?
 
UPDATE I


Since beginning this fundraiser on September 22, 2022 (one month ago today), we have raised $227.00 USD. (It's unfortunate, considering this thread has been viewed 4,290 times.) At this rate, I don't think we're going to be able to upgrade the site before it crashes. But...we will continue on with what we have, and the fundraiser will stay open for donations. This is why I am reluctant to place a goal raising thermometer on the fundraiser; the temperature wouldn't even show movement with a goal near $3,000. As always, I will continue to be transparent with your donation totals and provide updates.

Even a small donation of $2, $5, $10 would be helpful, but I understand not everyone is in a position to donate. There are priorities in life that should always outrank the BRS's existence. I got that. Some who are not able to donate have volunteered for other roles which are also just as important to the club's survival. Consider stepping up to take on a Chapter Presidential role, update the BRS Store, work on the Library, create artwork as needed, etc. We all can contribute in some way.

I want to thank each of you who has donated. Without members footing the bills we wouldn't have this very unique club for support and encouragement. THANK YOU!
*

*
*
*
 
Come on folks - look at it this way: Have you seen the price of running gear lately? Running barefoot saves you at least $100 a year on shoes and socks alone! Not to mention the savings in medical bills due to fewer injuries! It won't bankrupt anyone to send TJ a few bucks (or euros or pounds or whatever) to keep this wonderful site up and running!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Barefoot TJ
  • Like
Reactions: stjohnthegambler
I made a donation. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have my challenge be the way it is. It's the least I can do.
Well, thank you kindly. I’ll get in touch with you soon.
 
Thank you so much! It's good to hear you appreciate the BRS.

I will be in contact through email in just a moment.
 
UPDATE II


As of 12/02/22 our fundraiser total is: $482.25

Thank you to everyone who has donated!

Everyone else, please donate if you can. At this rate, I'm wondering if we will make our goal of $3,000 before the site bites the dust. ahem :stinkyfeet:
 
UPDATE III


We have raised $618.25 since starting our fundraiser on September 22, 2022. I greatly thank each of you who donated. We couldn't do this without those who can make those donations (and those who also volunteer in other ways).

What surprises me is that as of this posting, 22,267 readers/visitors have read this fundraiser thread, yet we have only raised $618.25. If everyone who reads this thread would donate just $1, we would have more than enough to upgrade the site.

Please consider donating. Thank you! :barefoot:
 
  • Like
Reactions: Tyler J L
UPDATE III


We have raised $618.25 since starting our fundraiser on September 22, 2022. I greatly thank each of you who donated. We couldn't do this without those who can make those donations (and those who also volunteer in other ways).

What surprises me is that as of this posting, 22,267 readers/visitors have read this fundraiser thread, yet we have only raised $618.25. If everyone who reads this thread would donate just $1, we would have more than enough to upgrade the site.

Please consider donating. Thank you! :barefoot:
I don't know who else has donated but almost at $1000 is pretty good
 
  • Like
Reactions: Barefoot TJ
I don't know who else has donated but almost at $1000 is pretty good
We should be at $1,000 in two or three months if we continue at this speed.
 
UPDATE IV

As of the day we began this fundraiser, September 22, 2022, we have raised $930.38! We are on our way, but boy oh boy, is it slow going?!

If everyone who viewed this thread donated just one dollar, we'd have $40,599!

Thank you so much to all those who could donate. We couldn't do this without you!

Next update will be in approximately one month.
 
U P D A T E
from 02/21/23
Posted below
Next update 03/21/23

View attachment 10396
Save the BRS Fundraiser

The Site is in Major Need of Your Immediate Help!


The site is old, outdated, broken, and at risk. Due to the havoc Covid has taken on our lives and bank accounts, we are way behind in raising funds (2016 was our last) to keep the site going...but, as far as I'm concerned, the BRS takes a back seat when it comes to people's health and livelihoods which are always most important.

But it's time. The site is nearing critical condition and needs to be upgraded both in terms of its platform/OS software, along with some of its modules, and the server it sits on (an old coot that will soon be retired, I'm sure).

If we are not able to raise the amounts needed in a timely manner (meaning before she croaks), then it's very possible that after 13 years, we may need to just shut her down. She's had a nice, long run after all. I'd like to hear your thoughts on this below.

The site migration to a new server will cost an additional $60 USD per month/$720 per year; we currently pay $100/$1,200. I'm thinking the software upgrades could be at least $2,500 - $3,000. (With inflation the cost may go up still.)


Support Your Club
pixel.gif





Here's the usual spiel:

Dear Friends,

The Barefoot Runners Society needs your support.

As you know, the BRS is funded and operated solely by its members. A modest income from advertising and tee shirt sales no longer covers the monthly costs for running and maintaining the site. Barefoot and minimalist running at the BRS is doing quite well, although with Covid in the midst, we did take a small slow-down (site hits are still quite impressive to me, considering). Site hosting, support, maintenance, enhancements, and upgrades all cost money. In addition, the BRS has other bills that need to be covered, for example, annual reports and filing fees, tax preparation, taxes, etc. Yet, we are committed to keeping the site free.

The BRS is the most visited barefoot and minimalist running site around because your kindness has enabled it to be #1. In order to maintain the level of quality you have come to appreciate and improve upon the functionality of the site, we need your continued help. Your donations will go far to allow the BRS to stay afloat, reach more potential members, and continue to grow.

We don't want to boast, but we do think we offer our members quite a range of services and content:

Forums:
The most active forums going on barefoot and minimalist talk. Learn and grow with other members, new and veteran alike, as you transition to healthy running. We have forums for Barefoot & Minimalist Running; Ultra Running; Ask the Docs; Gear & Footwear; Health, Nutrition, Injuries & Medical Conditions; Mileage Reporting; New Member Introductions; Races & Events; the Barefoot Pub; and more.


Giveaway Contests:
Simply post in the contest thread in the Gear & Footwear forum for you chance to win! We have giveaways for all types of minshoes. Check the site to see what we have scored for you! If you are a Donating Member, then your chances to win increase depending on your donation amount. See below for more info.


Chapter Clubs:
Join in on group runs and races with other members in your area, or head up a chapter in your area and arrange meetups.


Calendar of Events (been kinda lacking lately to be honest):
Stay informed on the barefoot and minimalist running, racing, and meetup events taking place around the country, in your area, and where you may be traveling to.


Ask the Docs Forum:
We have real doctors "on-call" to answer your questions about your barefoot and minimalist running and living health.


Member Map (one of those items that broke and needs to be fixed):
Put yourself on the map, and locate friends and mentors in your area to run with.


Map of Barefoot-Friendly Doctors & Specialists:
Find a doctor or specialist near you who won't treat you like an outcast for your running-style, or you can share those barefoot-friendly docs you learn of with the rest of us.


Map of Barefoot Running Instructors:
For those who need an extra bit of help and some face-to-face instruction.


Product Reviews:
Share your experiences and rate a product you may have tested--gear & footwear--and read what others are saying about products you may be interested in buying.


Course Reviews:
Rate a course, trail, or race on barefoot friendliness you have experienced, so others will know what to expect should they want to run it too.


Home Page News:
Stay informed on the latest in barefoot and minimalist running and the news that impacts our sport.


Blogging:
Share your experiences with others or learn more about your friends’ personal triumphs and trials in an all-inclusive place.


Library (under construction but really needing a volunteer to step up and take it on):
Review our Library, fast becoming THE go-to source for academic research and info on the benefits of barefoot and minimalist running, review how-to instructionals, and learn safe transitioning through Barefoot Running 101. (hopefully, being added back soon...)


Mileage Clubs & Mileage Reporting:
Be inspired and motivated by logging your barefoot and/or minimalist running miles and inspire and motivate others along the way. Earn a merit award at the end of the year to keep as a memento of your hard work and efforts.


International Barefoot Running DayTM (IBRDTM) (a great BRS event that will be on its own come 2023):
On the first Sunday in May each year, barefoot runners from all over the world get together to share camaraderie, express unity, and share with the world an alternative, viable way to run.


Stomp of ApprovalTM Program:
The BRS’s Stomp of Approval
TM is given to those individuals, organizations, and running events that show support for barefoot and minimalist running to display on their sites.

Communication:
Communicate with other members through private messaging.



For those who donate monetarily to the BRS, we have a special donor footprint that can be added to your profile's signature which will appear under your posts, so everyone who visits the site will know that you are a financial contributor to the BRS.

The BRS is a supportive, international community of barefoot and minimally-shod runners. All donation amounts are truly appreciated. Consider the cost of a pair of shoes that you no longer have to buy. Consider the amount you give to your favorite magazine for a subscription. If you feel the Barefoot Runners Society has enhanced your life and your running experience, please donate by clicking the Donate button below. It's for a good cause, and with your help, we are changing the running world one odd look at a time!


Donation Levels:

$1 - $24 gets you a Pinky Toe (one toe)
$25 - $49 gets you a Ring Toe (two toes)
$50 - $74 gets you a Middle Toe (three toes)
$75 - $99 gets you a Morton's Toe (Yikes!) (four toes)
$100 + gets you the Big Toe! (five toes)


Support Your Club
pixel.gif





The BRS Mission:
• To offer resources that unite barefoot and minimalist runners from around the world;
• To promote barefoot running and minimalist running around the world and at race events as a competitive sport;
• To educate the running public on the health benefits of barefoot and minimalist running;
• To dispel the myths associated with barefoot running that negatively impact the sport.

FILING STATUS:
The Barefoot Runners Society is a running club registered in Georgia as an LLC. We are no longer a non-profit corporation registered in Florida because we no longer have a registered agent living in Florida (which is required to file an Annual Report); the cost to file for federal 501c3 non-profit status at this time is too expensive; and filing corporate taxes are too high. Once we have the funds and the time is right and the purpose warranted, we will work toward filing for federal 501c3 status.


No one at the Barefoot Runners Society receives a wage, and all efforts are voluntary; many of our members volunteer their time in some way or another to support our running club. Some have stepped up to lead a chapter club in their area, some have taken on roles from administering the site, moderating the forums, writing articles, creating artwork, managing the Library, etc., while others have made monetary donations. Every little bit helps to keep our club going and growing. We all must do our part. If the BRS has made an impact in your life and if you believe in what we are doing here and can contribute in some way, we would more than appreciate it. Please locate the Donate Button above or email [email protected] for more info on how you can help your club.


Financial Summaries for the previous years (including donation totals) can be found here: http://thebarefootrunners.org/library-articles/finanical-summary.24/

More info about donations/purchases on or through the site can be found here: https://www.thebarefootrunners.org/threads/contributions-please.20337/#post-187735
All prior donation totals can be found here:


I've made a donation. This site and the members were a tremendous resource for my dissertation. I graduated Dec. 2021 by the way. I'll be blogging about the results this year. I hope we can save the site.
 
Thank you so much, Norma! We will work hard to make sure the BRS is around for a long time.