TotallyOz Posted February 8, 2011 Posted February 8, 2011 As some of you may know I have been working on a project for a couple of years dealing with starting a bicycle ride across Thailand that will benefit gay charities. The goal of the ride is to raise money for charities in Thailand. I want the money raised to go to worthwhile gay charities. I know there are many good charities in Thailand that are beneficial to the gay community as well as the larger community. What I'm looking for, is a list of charities that are directly related to helping gay and lesbian people in the community. Basically, what I'm looking for is to sponsor a bicycle ride where riders will be able to donate money to different charities across Thailand. It is my opinion, in order for this to be successful, the event should only raise money for charities that show full books and accounts. I realize that that will alienate some established charities, but I can't see any other way to do this. I don't want this thread to deteriorate into something nasty. However, I would appreciate the most diverse opinions as possible from our esteemed posting community. This trip will be something I put a great deal of time and money into so I want to do it right from the beginning and to avoid as much controversy as possible. I am looking for as many comments and suggestions as possible. What I envision with my ride, is that riders will be able to raise at least $1000 and 100% of this amount will go to one of their charity sponsors. Riders will not incur any expenses for a two-week to four week bicycle ride across Thailand. I will pay 100% of hotel, transportation, support etc. and will also cover most meals. That leaves the riders only with raising money for charity. I have not yet decided on a route for this trip but am considering either starting in Chiang Mai and going to Phuket or starting in Pattaya and going to Phuket. Part of this will depend on the tour leader as he will help with the planning of things and make sure this ride is comfortable for all. Again, I would appreciate any suggestions, help, or advice that anyone has to offer. Quote
Guest fountainhall Posted February 8, 2011 Posted February 8, 2011 I think this is fantastic. I still have very happy memories of all your amazing posts during the last charity ride. I can see no reason why anyone would wish to criticise your venture in any way whatever. I even think you might consider getting a local PR company on Board, hopefully donating their services - so that many more people can be aware of the project, its scale and its positive image for the gay community. I do not think established charities will be annoyed re your requirement for 'open books'. I have no direct involvement with charities as such, only with a non-profit Foundation. But I understand that those registered in Thailand must submit proper accounts which are closely scrutinised by the relevant government department. I suspect there might be 'waves' if one charity was registered overseas with no Thai legal presence. That, though, is merely a guess. It highlights perhaps the need for some form of legal advice up front, to ensure there are no potholes you might encounter further down the road. I am sorry I have no direct knowledge of gay charities and will try to find out more. In the meantime, put me down for a donation. Quote
KhorTose Posted February 8, 2011 Posted February 8, 2011 I think this is fantastic. So do I. I think it is great that you are willing to put so much work into this, and have the money go to charity. I think Fountainhall's suggestion of a PR firm is a great idea. As to the charities, here it may get a little tricky. I know of an orphanage that helps children with HIV, but do we want to associate HIV with gays? The same goes for the many programs to help prevent HIV. Truly Michael, I think any well advertised gift to a good, responsible charity would do one hell of a lot towards helping gays in this country, whether or not, the charity is directly involved with gays. However, it will be your effort and your work that will make this possible and if that is your wish, I will help in anyway I can. I will ask around and see what I can come up with. If nothing else feel free to solicit a donation from me when you are ready. You are not the board owner anymore and such a solicitation would be appropriate and welcome--at least from this board member. Quote
Guest Thor69 Posted February 9, 2011 Posted February 9, 2011 Good luck with that! Your detailed posts and photos from your last bicycle trip were a very good read. I really enjoyed them! Quote
Guest RichLB Posted February 10, 2011 Posted February 10, 2011 Applause, applause. I think that's a wonderful idea. I do want to warn you, though, that I think you need some kind of permit to engage in any kind of charity work. You might be wise to ask around and check on that. Quote
TotallyOz Posted February 10, 2011 Author Posted February 10, 2011 Thanks guys. Some great advice. Please keep it coming! As to a PR firm, how would I go about finding one that is good in LOS? Quote
