In February 2009 we decided to make some changes to our organization and the way we operate. In the past we have been directly in the projects, by planning, raising the necessary funds, and then providing the labor to complete the project. This process became burdonsome for a group of our size, so we decided to shift our focus.
We placed all of our money in the Perpetual Fund (except for a small amount needed to pay expenses). This interest bearing account was created as a way to help with the funding of future projects. Our current plan is to meet once a year, at our Annual Convention in June, and donate the interest from this fund to a WBTS project that another historical group is planning. This project could be as simple as providing history books for libraries, or as elaborate as purchasing land and or building museums.
Those who are interested in receiving a grant from the FCPHS need to send us a letter describing their need to our mailing adress PO BOX 9877 DAYTONA BEACH, FL 32120-9877. The letter should also include information on your group or organization and details of the project (what will the money be used for, how it will be dispersed, etc.). You will then be notifed after the Annual Convention as to whether your request was granted. Those receiving a grant will later be required to provide documentation of how the funds were used.
As our organization grows through membership and donations, this fund will increase and thus the amount of money available each year will increase. Our hope is that one day, we will have grants available in the thousands of dollars, instead of hundreds.
This shift in focus does not mean that we are completely out of the project business. As opportunities become available we will address them and act on them as our resources enable us.
We continue to have our vending machines that provide the money needed to pay our expenses (State tax, postage box fee, etc.). We are always looking for locations to place more vending machines, so please contact us if you know of a good location for a gumball (or candy) machine.