Why Crowdfund?
Meteorology has been a lifelong passion for me and I am eternally grateful to be able to practice my passion. However, my mission as a meteorologist goes far beyond simply doing something I enjoy. Every year, the weather damages property and puts lives in danger. Even in the Finger Lakes, the weather can be and has been deadly. My mission as a meteorologist is to do all I can to prevent such needless loss of life.
For that reason, I do not and will not charge a subscription fee for the information people need to remain safe. Finger Lakes Weather has been organized to meet this mission- for most users, there should be enough information readily and freely available to plan their day around whatever the weather may throw at them.
The only fees associated with Finger Lakes Weather are for businesses and individuals who need regular, detailed, location-specific forecasts. These clients enjoy 24/7 communication with Finger Lakes Weather and timely, personalized updates as a cost-effective way to save their businesses or organizations money, time and resources.
The fees for these services are priced to be affordable to even small businesses and low-budget non-profit organizations, breaking the traditional mold of many other weather consulting companies which focus on getting big money from big business. More information on these services, as well as how to apply for small business or non-profit discounts, can be found here.
The Reasons to Donate
Finger Lakes Weather is a freely accessible website. However, the cost of running a professional weather service is far from free.
Ongoing costs include server space and bandwidth, computer programs, data subscriptions, and technological upgrades.
Furthermore, hours of time is spent weekly keeping Finger Lakes Weather updated, fresh, and professional. As my primary source of income, your donations play an important role in allowing me to make Finger Lakes Weather my career. Monthly donations are especially useful, as they allow me to count on a steady source of income month-to-month.
Donation Policy
Donations are non-refundable. Automatic monthly and single, one-time donation options, are available. Finger Lakes Weather is not organized as a non-profit organization, therefore donations are not tax exempt.
Donations can be made securely through PayPal, via credit card, or by mailing a check. If you would like to mail a check to Finger Lakes Weather, please make the check out to Finger Lakes Weather and mail it to PO BOX 326, GROTON, NY 13073.
Occasionally, Finger Lakes Weather will run organized fundraising campaigns. However, donations are accepted and appreciated at any times.
Donation usage records available upon request.