Friday I learned that despite our funding agency's assurances (even up through Tuesday of last week) that our program would receive three full years of funding, all payments from the state (including my salary, folks) will be yanked at the end of August 2007. We're not being singled out--all ten heritage trail programs across the state are in the same boat.
I worked all weekend to get ready for a full-on lobbying effort directed towards the state department of transportation and the state historical commission. This morning we're mobilizing our board and just about everyone I've met since I arrived here last year, to contact legislators and government agencies to plead our case for continued support--at least until we get our 501 c 3 designation and we can pursue funding of our own.
Yes, living on grant-based funding is precarious, and I knew that going in. But this is coming far sooner than anyone ever expected. I still have work I want to accomplish here, but I have to face facts: if you come across a job opportunity and think I might be a good fit, please pass on the info! I'm digging in for a fight, but it is a fight we may very well lose.
Even though I got my degree at Illinois, and spent 2o years at the University of Iowa, this morning (with a nod to Michigan) I feel as feisty as a WOLVERINE!!! I'm ready to rumble!
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