Tree Hug World Record -- Fall 2024

Join Us to Set a New World Record for the Largest Tree Hug!
White Mountains, NH 🌲

🌳 What? We're aiming to break the world record for the LARGEST group tree hug ever! Join us in the stunning White Mountains of New Hampshire on the autumnal equinox to be part of something monumental!

🗓 When? Sunday, September 22, 2024. Be part of history as we gather 5,000 people to hug trees simultaneously for 5 minutes!

📍 Where? The event will kick off at the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, a gateway to tens of thousands of beautiful trees within walking distance.

🌲 Why Participate? This isn't just about setting a record; it's about connecting with nature, embracing the healing power of trees, and enjoying the spectacular fall foliage. Plus, it's completely free to participate!

⏳ Special Attempt: Stick around for September 23 when I'll attempt to set a new individual record for the longest tree hug—targeting a full 24 hours!

🚌 Transport and Parking: We've got ample parking and are coordinating shuttle services for your convenience. Details below!

🔍 More to Explore: Make a weekend of it with nearby attractions like Sabbaday Falls, Diana’s Baths, and the scenic Kancamagus Drive.

💚 Support Us: Help us bring this event to life! We're raising funds to cover permits, transportation, and more. Every donation counts and enhances our efforts to celebrate and conserve nature.

Fundraising Campaign

1. Permits and Legal Fees
Special Event Permit: The cost varies by location and scale but estimate is around $500 - $2,000.
Parking Permits: Special arrangements are needed, $100 - $500.
Liability Insurance: Essential for large gatherings, approximately $2,000 - $5,000 depending on the coverage extent.

2. Transportation and Parking
Shuttle Bus Service: To transport attendees from remote parking lots to the event site. For 5,000 people, estimate is around $10,000 - $15,000.
Parking Management: Additional staff or equipment for managing off-site parking, approximately $1,000 - $2,000.

3. Site Preparation and Facilities
Porta Potties: Assuming one unit per 100 attendees plus additional for staff, approximately 60 units. At about $100 per unit, this totals to $6,000.
Cleaning and Waste Management: Post-event cleaning services, $2,000 - $4,000.
Signage and Way-finding: For directing traffic and attendees, $1,000 - $2,000.

4. Staff and Volunteers
Event Staff: For management, security, and logistics. Assuming a small team, around $5,000 - $10,000 for the day.
Volunteer Support: T-shirts, food, and refreshments, estimate $2,500 - $5,000.

5. Marketing and Promotion
Digital Marketing: Social media ads, email marketing, etc., $2,000 - $5,000.
Printed Materials: Flyers, posters, banners, $1,000 - $3,000.

6. Miscellaneous
Emergency Medical Services: On-site medical staff or ambulance, $1,000 - $2,000.
Event Technology: Rental of sound systems, two-way radios, $1,000 - $3,000.
Vendor Fees: If involving food trucks or merchandise vendors, setup costs might be covered by vendor fees, but provision for utility support may be needed, $500 - $1,000.

7. Contingency Fund
Unforeseen Expenses: A contingency fund of approximately 10-15% of the total budget, $4,310 - $6,465.

Estimated Total Budget: $43,110 - $64,465

This estimate provides a comprehensive view of potential costs associated with organizing the event. It's recommended from expert consultants to aim for the higher end of this range to ensure all needs are adequately covered and to allow for unforeseen expenses. Thus, fundraising efforts should target a minimum of $65,000 to ensure the event's success and to contribute to related environmental causes, enhancing the event's impact and aligning with the Tree Yoga School's values and mission.