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Dear Hand Papermaking Friends and
Subscribers,
Another year has passed so
quickly! 2009 is right around the corner and I am honored to
be taking on the responsibility of chairing Hand
Papermaking’s board of directors. Like other small
non-profit groups, Hand Papermaking faces financial
challenges given today’s uncertain economy. Yet, with
limited resources, the organization continues to produce its
unique and indispensible publications. Recent magazine
issues were among the best in its 23-year history, the
informative newsletter is now offered in enhanced digital as
well as traditional print versions, and the next
limited-edition portfolio project is underway: Handmade
Paper in Motion.
Behind these ventures is a small
but efficient staff and a few dedicated volunteers working
on a limited budget. Your annual subscription fees form the
organization’s base, but this revenue is only about half of
what’s needed to survive financially. The balance must be
made up with portfolio sales, special fundraising events,
and generous tax-deductible contributions from those who
support Hand Papermaking’s mission.
Having served on Hand
Papermaking’s hard-working board of directors for a number
of years now, I know first-hand how tough it can be to
manage this extraordinary organization on such a tight
budget. Our unwavering enthusiasm goes a long way toward
accomplishing our goals, but bills remain to be paid.
 It
is not easy to ask for money, especially during these
challenging times. So, to ease the pain and encourage your
generosity, I have created a special gift for anyone who can
donate at least $100 to Hand Papermaking. Please allow me to
send you a luminaria made from my handmade paper featuring
four watermarks depicting the papermaking process (click on
the images to enlarge).
Join me in making a contribution
to Hand Papermaking today. You can
make your donation online,
or mail/fax this form. It is a true pleasure to serve on
the board of such a vital organization and to know that we
are keeping the tradition of hand papermaking alive.
Sincerely,
Helen Hiebert
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