Thanks to your generosity, we launched a successful fundraising campaign in 2009. Our goal was ambitious: $15,000. We are halfway there, having raised a bit more than $7,000. Through the support of many, we were able to update the club's fleet with the purchase of a four and replace shoes in several of our boats.

In response to the growing interest in sculling, our next purchase will be a single. But there are other needs; one of our next goals may be to purchase a replacement eight. We will soon need a new motor for the launch, and then there's the trailer. So, you can see, we must continue to raise funds to implement a long-term plan that ensures our club can address its equipment needs for all its members.

We are appealing to you to help us match or exceed the dollar amount we achieved last year. If you are among the 50% of member who were not able to give last winter, were waiting for our nonprofit status to become a reality, or were unable to respond at the time, we hope you'll consider giving now. If you did respond, we sincerely thank you for your generous donation and hope you will continue your support.

Your contribution provides critical resources for us to maintain and enlarge our fleet, to enhance our community outreach program, and as a result keeps our membership affordable for the range of rowers we are proud to attract.

Hard economic times throw into sharp relief the things that are important in our lives. Rowing in near the top of that list for all of us. Let's get bolted together this year. Let's catch together and let's work on strong finishes. Give whatever you can manage. Your donation is a gift for each and every one of us. We're all in the same boat and collectively we can achieve a great deal. Please make your check out to FVRA and mail it to: