Helping others.
My studio has a reputation of doing things that make a difference in the lives of other people and, of course, animal companions.
As you might imagine, I am approached for donations nearly every business day of the year. I wish it was financially possible to support every request received. I'm a very small business with lofty community goals but limited resources.
Donation requests that are approved are generally from supportive clients - those people who have already established a relationship with my studio and staff over the years.
Notes about my donations:
1. My pro bono work and donations are not viewed as tax deductions by the IRS.
2. Silent auction packages are not my favorite way to support non-profit organizations. I prefer to see my work presented through live auctions.
3. I rarely gift sessions or packages for drawings or prizes outright.
4. Donations to school clubs and teams are difficult for me to approve unless I've already done work for the requesting individual. There are hundreds of school organizations - too many to mention - and I value each of them. I wish my studio could support every financial request but it's just not possible.
5. Pro Bono (free) portraits of rescued cats, dogs, birds and other companion animals are provided every Thursday morning at my studio for rescue organizations and others as approved by my staff and By Appointment Only.
6. Donation requests should be made via personal letter. I will try to respond to all requests.
I'll always consider new requests however my pro bono and donation resources are largely committed to the following non-profit organizations - some whom have partnered with my studio for more than 20 years:
Front Row Seats Band Director
Chugach School District Mentoring Program
Bird Treatment & Learning Center
Alaska Humane Society - Adopt-a-Cat (Shelter)
Midnight Sun Hot Rod Association
Antique Auto Mushers of Alaska
