CAMRC (Central Arkansas Model Railroad Club) in Conway, AR struggled with this issue for years, since building, storing, transporting, setting up (and then taking down) a large O-gauge modular train layout several times per year became too much of a challenge to that group of senior members, many of whom had physical limitations.
For several years, CAMRC set up Train Open House events in the Community Room of a municipally-owned sports building in town with NO RENTAL FEE and an arrangement to seek voluntary DONATIONS from visiting families and hobbyists. The donations were enough to offset the costs of the event, but not enough to build up the treasury to the point where the group could afford a permanent building and related costs: rent, utilities, insurance, maintenance, marketing, layout operations, trains, etc.
The club hoped for a major benefactor, but no one emerged. Every non-profit organization scrambles for funds, so the competition for the attention of a lead donor and associate donors is fierce; especially in the Bible Belt mid-south region where churches "have God on their side" for raising funds.
That small group of 16 members (at its peak) dwindled over time, and it became clear that a permanent home for the layout and future additions to it was not financially feasible -- no "critical mass." The wishful thinking for a permanent home dissolved. Not long after this reality check, the club dissolved when only 7 members remained -- not enough for a baseball team.
However, it was fun while it lasted!
Mike Mottler LCCA 12394
mottlerm@gmail.com
