Home Alive is a great organization. But after 16 years teaching self-defense classes, it’s suspending operation at the end of the month. There’s more info in this online-only story. Directors seem to have remedied some financial mismanagement issues. But there’s another reason why the organization is on the rocks now:
Historically, Seattle’s music community provided much of Home Alive’s funding. The office’s walls are papered with posters from past benefit concerts. “Income like that should be icing on the cake, but instead it’s been the cake for so long,” says Alexander, who adds that the benefit shows started to wane a few years ago. “For people committed to throwing [benefits] these days, Home Alive may not be on their short list.” Moreover, the withering economy drags on all nonprofits’ fundraising.
Behold, a group of sports fans has stepped up to the plate. “We heard through the grapevine that Home Alive was in need of help,” says Kevin Zelko. Gorilla Football Club, a group of liberal soccer watchers, is throwing a benefit party from 8 p.m. to midnight on February 26 at Shorty’s [corrected date], 2222 2nd Avenue. “Let’s fill a jar full of cash to send to them,” says the Facebook invitation page. They’re gonna have a raffle for tickets at Neumos and some other neat stuff.
When I read that Home Alive was paying some $1500 a month for rent I knew they were doomed. It’s time for non-profits to re-think location HQ. Capitol Hill is not the center of Seattle any more. There are FAR FAR FAR cheaper rents within 20 minutes of Down town. Yes I admit they are not hip trendy areas, but if money IS an object to be contended with it’s time to let the hip and trendy aspects go in order to provide the services. Just a thought.
Hunh? $1500 is (or was until very recently) hardly expensive rent for office space (unless it was for like a few hundred sq. ft.).
And given Home Alive’s mission and target demographic being in or near the Hill (or a similar neighborhood) is practically a requirement. What next, suggest that Gay City relocate to West Seattle?
Hooray Kevin!
Thanks for the heads up!
Their Facebook invite says Feb. 26, fyi.
Invite is a verb, FYI.
@ 5) Shit… Thanks and corrected.
Great prizes indeed: Fado added some gift cards but the biggest prize might be to win the chance to be the Gorilla FC gorilla at a game. Furries don’t apply please!
Pinball tourney to help out Home Alive. Keep the spirit of Mia going.
the gays should colonize alki, the rich yuppies can just move to bellevue…. just think how awesome the beach would be in the summer with all the half naked guys… mmmmmm
Gorilla FC wants you to come to Shorty’s. The veggie dog tastes so good already