NCR Fund Meeting with John Hale

NCR Fund Meeting with John Hale
February 9, 2001

A meeting was held with Superintendent John Hale to discuss the NCR fundraising proposal. Although National Capital Parks-East didn't submit written comments Mr. Hale had the following comments and ideas. Please note the Superintendent has not reviewed this summary.

John Hale believes that we have to go forward with the NCR fundraising effort. He is in favor of the proposal and comfortable with the details. He noted that, "You can't know now what is exactly right to propose. Jump out and take the risk of getting going. If there are problems later, bring it back and make it right".

Superintendent Hale believes that the NCR fundraising effort will benefit everyone. John said, "The NCR fund is something extra, you can't lose".

John believes that all NCR parks will benefit from the effort. "If you can articulate your needs you will be funded proportionately. When we can articulate the significance of the operation for which we are stewards, the money will proportionately come".

Superintendent Hale stressed that we need to get people to buy into the significance of our operations. He urged that we create the same level of enthusiasm that we have for our parks within the public.

Superintendent Hale believes that it is important for his unit to have a position dedicated to fundraising and community outreach. He feels that there are many friendraising and fundraising opportunities within East that could be realized if there was more staff support to do so. Evidently he has a list of approximately 2 million worth of projects that need support.

John is currently working with NPF on fundraising that focuses on Frederick Douglass, Ft. Washington and the Network to Freedom. He is also working with the National Park Trust within the Greenbelt area on the Yeager Tract land acquisition. He said that people are willing to partner and donate time and money to these efforts.

Mr. Hale noted that the title of his unit seems to hinder his ability to communicate with the public. He suggested that we consider a name for his unit that better communicates the image and recognition of his park sites. John said that it isn't unusual for people to be confused by the title National Capital Parks-East. He emphasized that many people are more familiar with images such as the Frederick Douglass Home or Fort Washington Park.

We both wondered whether the title National Capital Region helped NPS to articulate a clear image for parks in this region.

Superintendent Hale indicated that he would be okay with some type of proportionate formula to ensure that all parks would benefit from NCR fundraising. He stressed that any system needed to be flexible to provide a park with extra support if necessary. He believes that our approach to region-wide fundraising needs to emphasize teamwork. John said, "Despite our tradition to operate separately, we need to be a team that pulls one wagon".

Conclusion: Superintendent Hale is a strong supporter of NCR fundraising efforts.