What exactly am I getting myself in to?
Everything about The Aspen Project is fundamentally different than any other way we've asked for assistance before. At first glance it feels like crowdfunding, but remove all of the uncertainty of whether your contacts are willing to share. Sure, sharing is at the root of the money being available, but it's not a question of whether your story is compelling enough to draw in the clicks. We don't need to be sold. You need. You ask. We do our best to pay. We're well aware of the state of the world, and when you say "I need..." we believe you and understand your struggle.
In the beginning it will certainly seem like The Aspen Project is a hail mary in a desperate situation, but the goal is for us to be the first choice that comes to mind when times are tough.
We don't think that it's natural or healthy to stress about money, and when this project takes off there are going to be a lot more people with a whole lot more time and energy on their hands to do what they love and provide for society and the world something that is special and meaningful to them rather than whatever is currently chaining them to their cubicle. More art, more music, more passion behind every service and product you receive. Just picture a world where everyone is doing what they're called to do, AND has the time and freedom to discover what that is! You may be on the receiving end at the moment, but that just means you'll be one of the first to see the benefit of being TAPped in!
A few guidelines...
Now to the obvious question- What's the catch?
Of course there are strings attached- but nothing like if you were financing a car, signing a mortgage, or racking up the credit card balances. Here are some ground rules that cover the major details. More fine print is available in the FAQ section.
* "Need" - We want to be as openminded as possible with the definition of this word, but we will have to say "no" from time to time. Housing, transportation, appliances, or any sort of improvement of any of the above will almost always qualify. Self improvement qualifies. Business start-up costs qualify. Activities for the kids and education qualify.
* Your request will be approved (to be filed) or denied upon submission, so there's no risk of having your name drawn and then not receiving the purchase.
* The Aspen Project will make your purchase on your behalf. There are two critical reasons for this rule:
1. The Aspen Network is an end goal. By allowing The Aspen Project to make and possibly negotiate costs, we are potentially building our network with reputable sellers that support our cause
2. Although we will be open to many definitions of "need", we will have to ensure that we are purchasing the item or service that is being requested. We're being trusted with donations from all walks of life, from all over the world, we need to be very respectful of this.
* The Aspen Project will be providing exactly 85% of your requested amount. 5% will be donated to the Seed and Soul Ministry, and 10% will be donated back to The Aspen Project and added to the available funds for the following weeks selections.
* Your request is good for the month it is submitted, if your name is not selected and your need remains, you will need to resubmit for subsequent months.
* You may only submit ONE request per month
* Review the special guidelines for The Canopy Club requests, the rules are slightly different
*You MUST be an donating Aspen Project member to participate/request (the minimum recurring donation is $10/mo- if this is absolutely unattainable please contact us for review)
How it's done...
"OK OK OK, that's all great, how do I submit a request?!"
Step 1: Become a Member
Step 2: Set up monthly donation ($10 minimum, please contact info@sandsministry.org if this is absolutely not possible)
Step 3: Fill out a very short form and upload some form of proof of what is being requested (examples listed on the upload page)
Step 4: Keep those email notifications on!