New Building (PPS)

Program Basics

 * Program Name: Move to a new building that we would own
 * Program Description:
 * Essentially we'd be purchasing a new home for FG and moving into it. The building would be more suited to our current and projected structural needs


 * What best describes this program? The Program is expected to do all three of these things
 * 1. Administrative (expected to support other programs that generate income and/or meet program needs)
 * 2. Meets program needs (expected to cost more money than it makes)
 * 3. Income generating (expected to make money for Free Geek)


 * Moving to a new building would enable us to improve our production and storage systems. It would cost a bunch of money to purchase the building (and to move) but we'd be investing in a mortgage instead of paying rent. Ideally, we'd have more room for a income-generating programs (such as the Thrift Store, production, bulk storage, etc.).

If we truly believe in FG's sustainability then we should be in a building better suited to our short- and long-term needs, a place which can offer the room to expand our programs adequately and provide accommodations for all volunteers and donors.
 * Why does Free Geek need this program?

Job Position Basics

 * Would there be a dedicated staff position associated with this program? NO

Costs and potential costs
All staff would assist in the moving process.
 * What are the expected financial staffing costs of the program? (Include all costs to the organization such as salary, payroll taxes, and benefits.)

Other than the high cost of purchasing the building... likely, some transportation equipment would need to be rented.
 * What other costs are associated with the program? (Include costs of materials needed, etc.)

Drawbacks

 * Outline the intangible costs for the position and program:

These would involve the (staff) time costs of actually moving all of FG's prolific treasures, including going through all the stored stuff. This would lead to increased recycling which would necessitate more staff & volunteer coordination. The Thrift Store would be closed for a day or two, production would slow/stop, metal separating/recycling would slow/stop in the moving process. Essentially, FG would not be generating much income for a week (my guess).

none that I can think of
 * Are there any possible negative impacts on Free Geek's mission, and if so what?

Individual staff responsibilities would potentially change slightly as we all accommodated to the new flow.
 * How will this program affect other programs and staff positions currently in effect?

subsequent income increases (via increased production & recycling efficiency, more Thrift Store space) could lead to more staffing opportunities
 * How will this program affect other programs and staff positions being considered?

Benefits

 * Would the program generate income? YES-ish, in the long term,
 * If yes, how much income would be expected once the program is up and running? I have no idea
 * If yes, how long would it take for the program to get to that point? probably 6 - 12 months

It doesn't directly involve our mission, but rather by moving into our own building we are indirectly supporting the current programs at FG be more efficient and to leave room to expand our programs.
 * How does the program support the mission of Free Geek?

Measuring Success

Firstly, by owning a building. Secondly, by increasing income through better physical structure. Thirdly, through expansion of FG programs.
 * How can the success of the program be measured?


 * For most income generating positions, the costs initially outweigh the benefits. If this is an income generating program, how long until it is expected to break even?: Hard to say.... when we pay off our mortgage?
 * Outline a plan for implementing the program:
 * 1) Scout out new buildings
 * 2) Find foundation funding to purchase new building.
 * 3) Purchase building.
 * 4) Move in.
 * 5) Free Geek-inate