February 2004
Issue

Obtaining funding for the Readership Program is easy when you are prepared. First, obtain a copy of the Readership Program Implementation Booklet by calling USA TODAY at 1.800.872.3415 ext. 3187 or completing the online form at www.usatoday.com/educate/ptk. Then review the benefits and logistics of the program from information found in the Implementation Booklet or on the readership website.

Know Whom to Approach

Often establishing the right relationship within the college can quickly result in the program being fully funded. There is no one specific person at every college that is correct for your chapter to approach. Sit down with your chapter members and advisors and identify key people whose support is likely to lead to readership success.

• Contact the President College presidents' support is often the key factor in initiating a successful Readership Program. Your college president not only has the vision to see the value of newspaper readership but also has knowledge of all funds available to the college and is a great resource for direct payment or advice on where to go for the necessary funding.
• Ask Student Government Your student government may be able to allocate funds to support the initiative. Or perhaps a new "Readership Program" fee could be created since the cost of the program is minimized on a per student basis (approximately $2.00 per student annually). Your college's administration knows whether or not this added fee might be a feasible way to fund the program.

International President Amber Davids secured funding from her campus student government at the College of DuPage.

"The Student Leadership Council along with my college president agreed to cover all costs of the program. They were thrilled with the concept of promoting civic engagement and encouraging newspaper readership among our 36,000 students on campus."

Ask for Help

If your chapter cannot do it alone, don't give up! Ask your advisor and USA TODAY. Collaborate with your chapter advisor or other faculty members on how and where to look for funding. Faculty members are aware of how your college's financial system is set up, so they can provide unique information that you may not have considered.

Consider seeking professional advice from USA TODAY. They are available to meet with your college to help describe the program. Take advantage of USA TODAY's vast knowledge and experience with the program by requesting their expert assistance.

Have a Back-up Plan

Think about it: every time you register for classes, you must select several additional classes in case your first choices do not materialize. The same is true for readership success - you should select several potential funding sources in case your first option does not pan out. Your chapter must establish a strong initial plan, and it is also essential to have an equally strong back-up plan.

• Try Matching Funds
  Your college's administration or another department may offer to match any funds that come from student government, student activities, office of the president or academic departments. These departments may have a vested interest in broadening the horizons of students through newspaper readership. Likewise, your Phi Theta Kappa chapter may be able to match funds by providing a contribution through fundraising activities if other procurement avenues are unsuccessful. Often just $1,000 from various departments is enough to begin the Readership Program.
• Investigate Grants
  Community colleges are already supported by numerous grants. In some instances, these existing grants can be used to bring this beneficial program to your campus. Your college president has knowledge of how these funds can be used in support of the Readership Program.
• Sponsorship Options
  Local senior institutions that recruit transfer students from your two-year college may welcome the opportunity to support the efforts to initiate the Readership Program. In return they receive recognition on the newspaper displays. In addition, local businesses and/or companies also may have interest in the exposure gained by supporting this program.