Has the good will nature of Christmas been lost as the rush to the tills continues? A 13 year old boy has raised this question after failing to secure more than a few clients in a charitable venture.
[UKPRwire, Fri Dec 16 2005] The good will aspect of Christmas has apparently vanished this year in favour of commercial exploitation. This is the conclusion of a 13 year old boy who set out to raise funds for charity, only to discover that few are prepared to give even a small contribution.
His venture, www.TreeOfNames.com has attracted over 70,000 visitors, yet few have taken the next step and paid the £1 fee. Nicky John from Cwmbarn,Wales devised the website to raise funds towards the Noah’s Ark Appeal (Teenage Cancer Unit, Wales) and for specialist education provision.
The Tree of Names contains a seasonal scene to which you add a “block”, personal message, and if you have one, a link to your website. Whilst ideal for festive greetings, some have left messages of general interest, said hello to relatives/friends and promoted events. Visitors also discover messages from celebrities endorsing the venture. Business entries are accepted so long as they are not adverts. Great emphasis is placed on the ethical approach adopted throughout the venture, whilst still remaining independent of any organisation.
Being home educated the project started as an exercise in business studies. “The final model evolved after many trials”, Nicky explained. “Without having to deal with traditional international boundaries the Tree Of Names has unlimited scope for expansion”. His goal; “a forest of trees, containing names and messages from every continent”.
His website provides an entertaining and varied look at many aspects of life including the diary, (or blog) of a 13 year old entrepreneur. With computers on the list for many this Christmas, the Tree of Names may yet see additional subscribers over the forthcoming holiday period.
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