November 2019 - Official Blog-Phoenix Pop

Types of Fundraising Strategies – Boosting Donations

November 19, 2019

Not-for-profit organizations depend on donations to meet their goals. Therefore, it is very critical that they keep appealing to donors so that money will not be a problem. One of the surest ways of making sure of that is by understanding the various types of fundraising strategies. With such knowledge, you will come up with fresh fundraising ideas, and the money will never stop coming.

Types of Fundraising Strategies

There are many different ways you can fundraise for your cause. If you are trying hard to raise money for your not-for-profit organization, this post can help. It will detail fundraising strategies that can open donation floodgates. You will also learn of practical ideas that you can use to raise funds.

End of Year Fund Drive

The end of every year is a perfect time to tap into the generosity of givers. Organize a fund drive with a theme of gifts. You will be rewarding those who have been a big blessing to your organization. As you give the gifts, you will also get donations from those who will be attending the event. Ending the year on a high note will benefit your fundraiser by reaching goals, so that you will not be struggling when the next year begins.

Use the Power of Social Media

You cannot ignore the power of social media. If it has the power to influence political decisions, then it will affect everything else. Find a few channels where you can talk about your organization and what it does. Each day, spend a few minutes sharpening your profile and crafting your stories. Build a network of people who can support you. With a bulk of visitors to your social media channels, raising funds will never be a tall order.

Letting Your Website do Some Bidding

We are living in the age of technology. A lot of people visit the internet daily. You should not forget about tapping into the potential of online traffic. How? Your website should be up to date. You should regularly update its content. Make sure you are in sync with what people would be interested in. Most importantly, ensure that your site is mobile-friendly. More people are accessing the internet with mobile devices. You sure want to let them know about you and your organization.

Organize Special Events

You should not be so obsessed with raising money that you forget to give back to your supporters. Once in a while, give them something to have fun and renew their support to your organization. Go for events like talent shows, school carnivals, field days, or you can do unusual fundraisers such as galas and video game tournaments. Let them have fun in the name of your organization, and they will be loyal supporters forever.

Monthly Giving Campaigns

Create giving events to reward your supporters. Choose the most generous donors and give them a token for their support. Invite other members of the public to take part in the campaign. This is how you can ask them to donate. You will be motivating others to be loyal donors.

To Summarize

If you want to keep your not-for-profit organization afloat, knowing the several types of fundraising strategies will come to your help. Pick a few of them and get the funds coming for your cause and your organization.

History of Escape Rooms

November 18, 2019

Do you ever wonder how escape rooms came about? If you have, then you need to read the history of escape rooms. The idea did not just come out of the blue; there is a lot of inspiration to it. Here is where you learn all about it.

History of Escape Rooms

This post will explore how escape rooms came about. It will take you through the journey of the game and the changes it has gone through. It is a journey from the beginning to where it is now.

The origin of escape rooms.

Today, escape rooms are known to be an unusual team bonding activity, but originally the entire idea comes from escape games. Players have to use their intuition to beat odds and escape from rooms and go for the next challenge. The first game in the escape room series, Crimson Room, hit the screens in 2004. It was the brainchild of Toshimitsu Takagi.

The transformation.

Industry experts say SCRAP, a Japanese game company, decided to change escape room experience for good. In 2007, they introduced live escape rooms. It was what Takao Kato, the founder of SCRAP wanted. From there on, players would be allowed to mingle during the game freely. The rooms are themed from various inspirations and players have to work fast to solve puzzles within preset timing.

Spreading to all continents.

The escape room games first spread across Asia. It was later that Europe joined the wave. China was also part of the revolution with Beijing Takagism playing the lead since 2012.

In Budapest, Hungary, the idea of the game was also born at almost the same time it was developing in Asia. Parapark, which was created by Attila Giyurkovics in 2011, was leading the Europe front. Attila was pushing the idea of live escape room just the same time it was happening in Asia. The first Escape room game was opened in Budapest. At around the same time, Real Escape Game company was established in the US. From there, the idea was spreading really first.

The UK and France were next in receiving the baton for the live escape room. In 2013, Canada also joined the bandwagon. The idea was spreading fast, and a lot of people were playing the game.

Escape rooms today.

Can you guess how far escape rooms have spread today? It has become a global phenomenon. If that is your guess, you are right. France is a perfect example of how escape rooms have grown in recent years. There are 1,990 escape rooms in France, all representing more than 700 brands. A lot more rooms are opening each week.

The varying inspirations.

Most of the inspirations come from films and novels. Others are born out of imagination, like creating a totally different universe. You will also notice a difference in inspirations for different continents. Asia emphasizes on fierce competition, while Europe is taking a path to give players an immersed experience.

There are many benefits to going to an escape room, make sure you have the proper skills to beat the escape room quickly. Hopefully, you now understand the history of escape rooms. You are now a witness of where it all began and where it is today. As you play, you have some bragging rights because you know the history to the game.

Fountain Pen Cartridge Types

November 12, 2019

When choosing a fountain pen, you also need to consider the ink-filling system. You can fill your pen with ink in several ways and cartridges are among the most popular. A cartridge is a small ink reservoir, usually in tube form that makes it easy to fill ink into your pen. It also helps to know that there are several fountain pen cartridge types.

Fountain Pen Cartridge Types

In this article, we’ll discuss cartridges in detail and outline the various types available. We also outline some of the benefits and drawbacks of using cartridges as an ink-filling system. Fountain pen ink cartridges and converters come in many different styles, which can help your handwriting look professional when applying for a job, which can lead to a job interview. Cartridges fall into two main categories: Fountain Pen Cartridge Types

Standard International:

Fountain pens are made of nibs, feeds, and reservoirs (cartridges). These types of cartridges have the same type receptacle and can be used by a wide variety of fountain pen brands. The advantage of buying a fountain pen from a brand that uses standard cartridges is that you have a broad array of cartridges available to you with many color options, and in case of an emergency, finding a basic refill at your local stationery shop shouldn’t be a hassle.

International standard cartridges come in two main versions – 73mm cartridges and 38mm cartridges. Most pens will accept either option, and there are also many designed to allow two short cartridges in the barrel. That way, you can always use one as a spare should you run out of ink unexpectedly. However, there are a few compact fountain pens that can only use the shorter cartridge.

Proprietary:

Proprietary fountain pen cartridges can be used only in their respective pen brands. As a result, pens from certain manufacturers can only utilize their own proprietary ink cartridges. Some manufacturers offer an adapter, which allows their pens to use international cartridges in addition to their proprietary band.

Advantages of Cartridges

They are cost-effective.
Cartridges are light in weight, making them more convenient than built-in filling systems and converters where bottled ink is necessary.
They are an easy way refill fountain pens with ink and often come preloaded, making it easy to refill your pen with ink.

Disadvantages of Cartridges

Because cartridges are separate components from the barrel, they usually have less ink capacity than other systems.
Most cartridges don’t allow the use of a wide range of inks found in bottled form. However, you can refill bottled ink into a spent cartridge using a blunt-tipped syringe.
Plenty of fountain pen makers use proprietary cartridges that don’t work with other brands, limiting color choice.

Bottom Line

Understanding the different fountain pen cartridge types helps when choosing what fountain pen cartridge to get. For instance, if you know you’re going to have trouble refilling your pen then it’s wiser to consider one that works with a standard international cartridge. Similarly, if finding a proprietary cartridge won’t be a hassle, you have more freedom to choose. Remember to clean your fountain pen cartridge, so it can be used optimally.

Tractor Names

November 12, 2019

Tractors come in many shapes and sizes. Whatever you purchase is all depended on what you intend to do with it. To help you know what you should go for, tractors names would be a good place to begin.

Tractor Names

This article is about all kinds of tractors. We will break down the different names and types. By the end of this article, you will know the type of tractor that meets your needs. Although not discussed here, it’s recommended you consider a tractor’s transmission as well, as it can make a difference in your tractor’s performance.

Tractor Types

Generally, tractors are divided into 3 categories. These are; Tractor Names

Their Construction
Their Kind of Drive
Purpose of the Tractor

Construction Tractor

It is more of the construction of the machine that brings about this name. It is further divided into 2 subcategories. In the first one, the driver can sit while driving the tractor. For the second one, the driver walks by the side. It is also known as a walking tractor. Having the proper tractor for your construction project is just one of many tractor safety tips.

Tractor Types by Track Type

In this category, there are two types: The half-track and full track. For the half type, the track is fitted towards the rear. The tires go to the front of the axle. They are mostly used on barren lands. However, they are the ones used for heavy agricultural activities.

They are also known to leave a big gap between the tracks and the ground. It also makes sure they have powerful traction. Some tasks like dams and others requiring earthmoving will find this kind of tractor very useful.

Tractor Types by Wheel

Almost two decades ago, three-wheel tractors were the popular choice. Recently, they have been replaced by their four-wheel brothers. Tractors in this type are best for fast-moving in short distances.

Tractors in this category fall in a range of groups as discussed below; Tractor Names

Utility Tractors:The utility tractor is best for general ploughing and moving equipment around. Framers will find this tractor useful, especially where they cannot afford to buy other powerful tractors.
Industrial Tractor: They are also known as tuggers. They are optimized for lifting loads.
Earth moving tractors: These are heavyweight machines. You can choose to go with the track or the wheel type. Just like their name suggests, they are biased for earth moving. You will see them mostly in a quarry, and other heavy construction works.
Rotary Tillers: These are a type of walking tractors. They are used in small and hilly fields with varying heights. It is such fields where big-size tractors are not appropriate.
Garden Tractors: These are small tractors with horsepower in the range of 1 to 10. They are useful for small gardens and flowerbeds.
Orchard Tractors: These are specialized tractors. They are only used in orchards. The top is raised so that the driver can easily pick fruits while seated. There are no external parts; hence, it can easily pass in between trees.

Bottom Line

In addition to learning tractors names, you also know the different types. Each type of tractor is best suited for specific roles. Remember to always perform routine tractor maintenance to ensure yours is safe to use. What do you need a tractor for? Pick the one that works best for your needs.