How To Support Our Philanthropy

Chapter 8 is a tax-exempt organization, but it is not a non-profit for which donors may take a state or federal tax deductions.  As such out philanthropic efforts are given without any expectation of benefit except for the personal satisfaction in knowing the benefit you are providing the recipients.

There are many ways to support Chapter 8 philanthropy efforts, but the most common way is to donate items during a rally that can either be auctioned to your peers or to contribute money or labor to beneficiaries in Mexico.  These items can be brought from your the USA, but preferably purchased in Mexico.

Below are some ideas for items you may wish to bring with you on a rally. As with anything else, shopping in Mexico for these items helps support the local economy (and won’t require hauling the items across the border.)

Silent & Live Auction Items

• • • Art Objects (paintings, sculptures, carvings, novelties, etc.).

    • Handcrafted items (especially those with unique character).

    • Bottle(s) of liquor or wine.

    • Wine, cheese, food baskets.

    • Electronics, new or used (in good working order) e.g. radios, antennas, photovoltaic gear and other chargers, etc.

    • RV/automotive products, new or used (in good working order) that you no longer use or need.

    • RV accessories new or used (in good working order), camping chairs, folding tables, etc.

    • Unusual gadgets, clothing, hats, gag gifts, ugly ties… things that would make any auction bidder grin.

    • A spouse’s personal item (like a hat or tool) that would inspire a spouse to bid higher to reacquire it.

In-Kind Donation Items

The Mexican government appreciates items being bought in Mexico since it helps their economy.

• • Bulk Food (Non-Perishable): Large Cans of Peanut Butter, Tuna, sacks of pinto beans, rice, and flour,  Ensure type beverage (or other meal replacement products). Fresh fruits (especially grapes) and fresh vegetables are also appreciated.

  • Blankets: Baja winter nights can be cold. Warm blankets can make a big difference.

• • Electronics: Computers (desktop, laptop, tablets, WiFi gear, cables) in good working order.

• • Clothing: Adult and children pants, shirts, shoes, jackets — especially with hoods for school age children from age 4 to 16 years old. Any kind of pants that pull up and have no zipper, sweatpants/shirts, and leggings for girls up to size medium.

• • Craft Materials: Pipe cleaners, beads, paints, colored paper, etc.

• • Diapers: Adult size for handicapped adults; children’s diapers for all age kids; and pull-ups.

• • Games & Toys: Handheld games, puzzles, electronic games or tablets, balls (especially soccer balls), and AA & AAA batteries.

• • Disability Aids: Wheelchairs, walkers, and canes (especially adjustable canes)

• • Hygiene Products: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, soap, shampoo, hand lotion, sunscreen,  sanitary napkins and wipes.

• • School Supplies: Pencils, ball point pens, paper, notepads, wire bound composition books (older kids need one for each class subject)