Heifer International Part II – Return of Baby Ducks…

Those of you who have been reading the blog for a while know we did a fundraiser for Heifer International last year.

For those of you who are new to the game, you can see some of the details HERE.

In a nutshell, I started what I thought would be a little fundraiser, offering prizes and various other incentives to get people to donate. Things quickly spiraled out of control, other people in the Fantasy and Sci-fi publishing world pitched in, and by the end of it we had raised over 100,000 dollars.

Have I mentioned yet that Heifer is my favorite charity? It’s my favorite charity.

So imagine my delight when Heifer’s publication, World Ark, showed up this week and I found this inside:

(Click to Embiggen)

They’re using us as an example of good fundraising. Go team us!

Seeing this has made me think of several things…

1. My hair looks pretty good in this picture.

2. We still need a good name for the fundraiser.

So far the best we’ve come up with is “Geeks for Goats” or “Worldbuilders Ink.” I kinda like the second one, but it’s punny. (Ink = Inc. Get it? Yeah. Not that funny.) What’s more, the pun makes me wonder if the possessive apostrophe is really appropriate. Should it be “Worldbuilder’s Ink” or maybe even “Worldbuilders’ Ink?”

And as for “Geeks for Goats” well… it’s kind of a silly name. While I’m not opposed to silliness, a fundraiser with a goofy name does not inspire confidence in donors. And we want donors. Many, many donors.

That means we need something clever, catchy, and subject-appropriate. Penny Arcade’s “Child’s Play” is a good example of a this.

3. In a couple months we’ll be starting fundraiser version 2.0. That means….

  • If you’re interested in participating, start saving your pennies.
  • If you’re going to *raise* money to donate, start gathering your troupes.
  • If you’d like to donate something, like signed books, collectibles, or a cool service, drop me a line at paperback.contest (squiggly at thinger) gmail.com.

Last year most of the prizes were Sci-fi and Fantasy books, given out lottery-style. This year, with more time to plan, I think we’ll be auctioning off some specialty stuff as well.

Some of the auction items will be things like signed books and one-of-a-kind manuscripts. Or services like having a pro author read your book and give you feedback.

Don’t get me wrong, we’ll still have the lottery prizes for people that want to donate. But in addition to that we’ll be running auctions for the specialty items: things like, say, getting your name into The Wise Man’s Fear.

So if you have stuff you’d like to donate to the cause, drop me a line. (Not money. That will come later. Right now I’m looking for stuff like signed books, memorabilia, stuff like that we can use as prizes.)

So stay tuned folks. It’s going to be a good time.

pat

P.S. If you have any clever ideas for what we could call the fundraiser, comment below. We’re creative people, right? We should be able to come up with something….

This entry was posted in baby ducks, Heifer InternationalBy Pat125 Responses

100 Comments

  1. YELLOWDOG GRANNY
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 9:54 PM | Permalink

    LOTS O’ DUCK….thats the best i can come up with..and while i have your attention..when’s the second book coming out..i just gave my book to the 8th person to read and 7 of them and me are waiting with bated breath..i promise to write another’best fucking book ever’ post on my blog..yellowdoggrann.blogspot.com

  2. Shane
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:10 PM | Permalink

    I won one of the Subterranean Press books last time but they never sent it to me. :(
    No biggy, really. Happy to contribute and all that.

  3. Brandy
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:14 PM | Permalink

    Fantasy Funds? Worldbuilding Wealth? Kvothe’s Capital? Geeks’ Gold for Goats? Rothfuss Riches? Booklovers and Beehives? Bibliophile Money Pile?

    Would you like any knit items for the prizes? I knit a mean hat…

  4. Anonymous
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:16 PM | Permalink

    Heifer Heroes.
    Money for Manimales.

  5. James Johnes
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:23 PM | Permalink

    If you go with Worldbuilders Ink, I think it should be the “Worldbuilders’ Ink” since it is plural and suggests more of a community thing.I actually quite like it as worldbuiling takes effort, giving takes effort, and through giving, these familys are being given the chance to expend effort in a way that betters their lives.

    Also I second Bibliophile Money Pile. Brandy, youre my hero.

    About how much does it cost to provide a family with a goat?

  6. Chris Heilman
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:36 PM | Permalink

    Has to be “Geeks for Goats”.

  7. ANGIERAE
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:40 PM | Permalink

    That is totally awesome. :) Of course, it was an awesome amount of money to raise, too. Looking forward to this year’s fundraiser.

  8. Mary J.
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:44 PM | Permalink

    Geeks’ Gold for Goats is nice but I think it has got to be “Geeks for Goats”. We already think of it that way here in Indy. :-) (We’re thinking of it that way because Heifer donations in his or hers name is what all the adults are getting for Christmas this year.)

    Hey Brandy- I bet a Jayne hat or two would go over really well. Or if you could duplicate Pat’s winter hat… that was outstanding.

  9. Plenz
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 10:47 PM | Permalink

    Random Acts of Kine-ness occurs to me as something punny yet fun.

  10. elias
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 11:03 PM | Permalink

    “Wood for Sheep”… paper (like that found in physical books, and also possibly paper money) comes from trees…

    “Geeks for Goats” sounds like the geeks are being exchanged, or like a political group dedicated to getting goats into public office.

    Hmm… “Works for Food”…?

  11. Ethan
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 11:09 PM | Permalink

    hmmm.. how about “Trucks ‘o Ducks”

  12. LordMortimur
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 11:20 PM | Permalink

    The Waystone Fund

  13. Roswitha
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 11:32 PM | Permalink

    Bibliophile Money Pile gets my vote for genius, but it doesn’t really indicate what this is all about.

    Geeks for Goats does that better (and I’m partial to that one because I created an online giving circle called Geeks Algorithm of Giving (Right now we are raising money for Operation Bootstrap Africa, which helps communities in Africa build schools without taking jobs from the locals, provides schoolbooks, and teachers’ salaries).

    And if it’s Worldbuilders Ink it should be plural possessive – Worldbuilders’. Definitely.

  14. An Albino Druid
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 11:43 PM | Permalink

    Dear Pat,

    You are correct. Your hair looks very nice in that photograph. I got chills by looking at that add. No, it is not because I was intimidated by the sheer hard-boiledness of your physique and stare, or any irrational fear or hatred of baby ducks. I felt cool because I was reading a catchy advertisement for a charity group that is in love with one of the coolest authors in the world.

    I did not participate last year, mainly because I did not know the existance of the blog, and cannot wait to dive into it this year! I do not need any swanky gifts to entice me, especially because I have nothing to contribute to the lottery. But I do have the name of an adoring fan, “Lukas Samuel Swartz,” whom I know would die from happiness if he found his name in Wise Man’s Fear. I will get a small team together, and will be sending you as much as possible!

    Do you plan to match the money this time around as well? I would assume that, now that more people may know about it (me,) we may send a bit more. I know it is for the good of the world, but you don’t need to mortgage off your house to match us! Every little bit helps, right?

    All of Brandy’s suggestions stick out to me as great ones! They all roll off the tongue very well. I especially like “Kvothe’s Capital,” because I think the fundraiser should reflect the story and your ambition somehow.

    I, myself, am a fan of:
    “Wealth From the Waystone”
    and
    “Fortune From the Fae”
    (or maybe something similar but less pretentious and ostentatious)
    Perhaps:
    “Well Wishes From the Waystone”
    “The Hiefer Hearthfire”
    “Chronicler’s Coppers”
    “Talents From Tinue”
    “Commonwealth for Common Health”
    etc.

    Regardless of the name, though, Pat, we are all ready to help out in any way we can. As always, I remain

    Respectfully Yours,
    An Albino Druid
    Digging Holes in His Back Yard Since 1992

  15. Jake Covert
    Posted July 17, 2009 at 11:59 PM | Permalink

    Kvothe Capital Investments – Making the world a better place, one goat at a time.

  16. missalena
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 12:55 AM | Permalink

    OMG!!!! Bibliophile Money Pile really really really really really really got me laughing. I really liked it. But laughter isn’t the point. I agree with what some people said about it needing to reflect the story that originally brought us all together. “The Waystone Fund” really makes me happy. It sounds very nice and professional, and as most or all of the people donating to it are your readers, we’ll all get it. I think it would make Kvothe (or, really Kote, because we all know that he’s the personality of Kvothe that runs the inn) smile. It would fill some of that silence in the Inn…

  17. Pierre
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 1:23 AM | Permalink

    Glad to hear there will be a part 2 to the positive madness that was the event last year. I hadn’t heard of Heifer until then, but was glad to join with the others to help a very worthy cause.

    So far my favorites so far would be “The Waystone Fund” or “Geeks for Goats”.

  18. Avala
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 1:31 AM | Permalink

    NERDS FOR HERDS! THE GOLDEN GOATS! MONEY FOR MOO! MORSELS FOR MULA! KVOTHE’S CARAVAN! GEEKS OF GLORY! GOATS OF GLORY! THE ARK OF ROTHFUSS!

  19. Lucid
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 1:46 AM | Permalink

    I’ll add my voice to the chorus on the point of the best version being “Worldbuilders’ Ink,” for most of the reasons suggested by others.

    Let’s see now, can I come up with something better? “Halfman’s Hope” came to mind but ought to be disqualified for obvious reasons. ‘Philanthropic Fantasists’ is rather better.

  20. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 2:06 AM | Permalink

    Gotta be Bibliophile Money Pile….still giggling.

  21. Robin
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 2:08 AM | Permalink

    Hurray! I was reading my copy of the Ark and was hoping our fearless leader would have plans for us soon…looking forward to the return of the baby ducks.

  22. Vinny K
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 2:18 AM | Permalink

    You could always put your two ideas together to get “Worldbuilding Geeks”. I have to admit though, that “Bibliophile Money Pile” really got me laughing, pure genius.

    As for the apostrophe, I think “Worldbuilders’ Ink” give it a better feel; more people involved and all that.

    As an after thought, perhaps “The Fund of the Wind.”

  23. Tiffanee
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 2:25 AM | Permalink

    No suggestions, sorry. But I had a funny moment as I read The Ark. I saw your pic and thought, “Hey! I know that guy!” Then realized it was you and I don’t know you, but I have your book and I read the blog. An odd sensation.

  24. Angela
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 2:43 AM | Permalink

    “Pat’s B.E.A.R.D.” (Band of Eleemosynary Acquisition and Redistribution Drones)

    Of course, I’m always for “Geeks for Goats” (I’m willing to be bartered for a goat for the greater good) and find myself approving heartily of Brandy’s “Bibliophile Money Pile.”

  25. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 3:15 AM | Permalink

    I like ‘Waystone Fund’, it has a nice roll to it. :)

    — coypup ^.,^

  26. xain721
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 3:54 AM | Permalink

    i really liked nerd for herds, waystone fund, bibliophile money pile made me lol for real real

  27. Armin
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:06 AM | Permalink

    Sorry to be the party pooper (is that correct?).
    I’m just so not into giving my money away to any enterprise/ organization whatsoever. I really do hope I’m wrong but I just don’t believe I am. Please god let me be wrong and your fund raising shall be good for something. I did donate in the past but earnestly I don’t think money given to any organization will find its way to ppl who need it. Or to elaborate: it will find its way there but only 10% at most. The rest enriches rich folks and pays for the meager 10% being transfered to where 90% should have gone.
    Don’t loose hope I’m not better of having lost it. Good luck.

    My name would be “Money for nothing” but thats mostly because I do love the song ;)

    cheers
    Armin

  28. JoshSHill
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:23 AM | Permalink

    Money for Moo was good, but I like Nerds for Herds and Geeks for Goats. As has been said, it’s ok to barter geeks for goats, and it gives me an idea.

    Individual geeks (or nerds) can set themselves up as the prize for an auction, and people can bid on them, with all funds going to the BIGGER fund. So if someone wants their computer fixed, their work grammar checked, a hat knitted, etc, that’s what they’d win. They’d win your services!

    What do you think?

  29. Bryn
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:39 AM | Permalink

    I loved NERDS FOR HERDS. But I’mma steal it….
    how about because so much money is raised…

    NERDS GIVE HERDS?

    Nerds Grant Herds?

    Nerds Supply Herds?

    Nerds Present Herds?

  30. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:42 AM | Permalink

    I’m really loving “Bibliophile Money Pile” myself. :)

  31. Patrick Notrothfuss
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:43 AM | Permalink

    The Eolian Effort?
    The Fae-touched Fundraiser?
    The Sympathy Fund?
    Denna’s Domesticated Deliveries?
    The Illien Achievement?

  32. An Albino Druid
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 6:27 AM | Permalink

    The Pay of Sir Travien ;)

  33. The Hammer
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 7:17 AM | Permalink

    Geeks for Goats is good, but it does seem like the silliness in it would keep away some doners. It seems to me that the Waystone Fund gives fans something that they can get into, and would not deter the ones not in the know.(Although if you aren’t in the know, you should totally get into it). The Pay of Sir Savien is a good one too. It’s punny, but not too punny.

  34. The Hammer
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 7:19 AM | Permalink

    I would also enjoy stating that Patrick Rothfuss is the single greatest author ever born if only because of his ability to capture the full range of emotions a person can experience in their entire lifetime in one book

  35. Oz
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 7:28 AM | Permalink

    “WorldBuilders’ Ink” sounds perfect to me. No need to change it to something else.

  36. James Thelman
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 9:21 AM | Permalink

    Personally, I like my charities or organisations to have a single purpose, and a single title. Something to invoke warmth, passion, comfort, and sustenance for the people who are in need. Something with a good aliteration, easy on the tongue, easy to remember–unforgettable, in fact. That said, I have two suggestions:

    Buttermilk

    or

    Waystone

    They both have that benevolent, fortifying, weighty, comforting, grounding feeling to them.

    Go Us!

  37. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 9:26 AM | Permalink

    “Fantasy Pages and Nerds’ Wages”

    or

    “Money Given By Patrick Rothfuss and His Loyal Deciples for the Purpose of Livestock Distribution to People Who Have Need of Livestock Because we Wish to Save the World”

  38. solstalker
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 10:07 AM | Permalink

    The Waystone Fund has a professional, serious ring to it that should keep people coming back year after year (I assume this is going to become a regular thing?)

  39. Anett
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 10:08 AM | Permalink

    Um, what about “Bookworm`s for life”. =))

  40. Shanah
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 11:09 AM | Permalink

    Quoting The Hammer: “It seems to me that the Waystone Fund gives fans something that they can get into, and would not deter the ones not in the know.” I totally agree with this. The team needs a name *everyone* can relate to, and while I like all of the Nerd and Geekcentric ones, the name needs to reach out to the rest of the people who have the means and heart to donate. So, The Waystone Fund, Worldbuilders’ Ink and just Waystone as suggested by someone else are good. Unfortunately I can’t come up with new suggestions right now.

  41. Krys Night
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 11:33 AM | Permalink

    Worldbuilders’ Ink gives credit to any authors that you have who donate to your fund while also mentioning that the person who is running it is also a phenominal worldbuilder.

  42. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 11:36 AM | Permalink

    Readers for Heifer. We’re doing it for ewe.

  43. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 12:39 PM | Permalink

    I like the sympathy fund or waystone fund.
    maybe abenthy’s pennies?

  44. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 12:59 PM | Permalink

    Great suggestions so far.
    I vote for The Sympathy Fund (or maybe just “Sympathy”), because I like how it works in two ways, and yet it doesn’t sound too fantastic or nerdy.
    But Wordbuilders’ Ink (like this) sounds also nice. Nerds for Herds at least gets a hearty chuckle, but it does not really sound serious. Shouldn’t it sound a little serious, at least?

  45. Karl Ruben
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 2:43 PM | Permalink

    For a non-punny, relatively neutral name, the best I can come up with is “Imagine Giving”. Great that you’re repeating last year’s success, Pat; you’re an inspiration!

  46. CourtFool
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 3:00 PM | Permalink

    “Worldbuilders’ Ink”

    Patrick Rothfuss’ **Worldbuilders’ Ink** Charity Drive.

    I can already see it in an awesome logo with a tree growing out of the W and a heifer poking its head between the words.

  47. Aerron
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:04 PM | Permalink

    Fulfilling Fantasy

    We are fulfilling the fantasies of others that wish to be self sufficient and that our chosen hobby is very rich.

    Enjoy.

  48. Anonymous
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:21 PM | Permalink

    Swords and Sorcery United Fundraiser.

  49. Salvator Sr
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 4:56 PM | Permalink

    How about ‘Dollars for Ducks’ or ‘Dorks Do Good’ (that one is kinda mean, but we are all good natured folk) or ‘Fantasy Makes Dreams Come True’ or ‘Patrick Rothfuss’ Charity Race’ or ‘Reading for Charity’ or ‘Fantasy Gives Back’

    Hope the girlfriend and the little baby to be are doing great!!!

  50. Black Badger
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 5:38 PM | Permalink

    How about Feeding The Fantasy or Will Write For Food…

    Or (in honor of JL Borges) The Babylambian Lottery

  51. Skyler H.
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 6:03 PM | Permalink

    How about Wayward Ducks. Groats for Goats. Out to Pasture. Udder Insanity. Or Group for the Prolification of Udder Essentials. Udder Construction. (Way too many udder puns. I apologize.) Or maybe possibly Wordmongers For Feeding Families.

  52. Jacob
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 7:39 PM | Permalink

    Armin,
    Of the money that goes to Heifer International, 6.6% goes to administrative costs. 17.7% goes to fundraising. The rest, so three-quarters, is going to programs.

    The admin cost is incredibly low and for the fundraising, sometimes you need to spend money to make money.

  53. Sir Drewster III
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 7:57 PM | Permalink

    i was thinking A Helping Hoof or Happy Hoof or another variation of Hoof. I think this is such a great charity because it enables the people to make their lives better, instead of just giving away pre packaged guilt donations.

  54. An Albino Druid
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 8:46 PM | Permalink

    Alright, here we go. I am offering up these names as both suggestions and for springboards for other people to adopt and make their own.

    Wealth From the Waystone
    Fortune From the Fae
    Hiefer Hearthfire
    Chronicler’s Coppers
    Alpha and Beta
    Commonwealth for Common Health
    The Pay of Sir Savien Traliard
    Lord Haliax Loves Hiefer (come on, he can have a heart!)

    My personal favorites of mine:
    The Reshi Relief Fund
    Talents From Tinüe
    Auri’s Animals
    Delivering the Draccus (If I am not mistaken, the Draccus is compared to both a chicken and a cow among others.)

    I also support the Waystone Fund, Worldbuilders’ Ink, Bibliophile Money Pile (although I think this is a little much), the Sympathy Fund, the Eolian Effort, the Fae-touched Fundraiser, and Feeding the Fantasy.

    Good luck everyone!

  55. Jason Wells
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 10:02 PM | Permalink

    ” things like, say, getting your name into The Wise Man’s Fear.”

    Blast…this means the the book will not see the lights in my room until this event is over, probably at least 2 months after that even. Now I’m, as my friend likes to say, ‘all sad in mah heart place’.
    But Good luck with the event all the same!
    I have no good idea’s for the name of the fund however, I just came with sadness to offer :)

  56. Sam
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 11:53 PM | Permalink

    Hello, long time Pat blog reader and fanatical minion here.

    Last year when I contributed to the fundraiser I was very leery because, though I love the Heifer International system and think it’s a great idea, I’m also a regular reader at charitynavigator.org, where a nonprofit rating organization looks at charity efficiency.

    Last year Heifer International spent about 75% of their revenue on actual the actual program, and the rest on administration and fundraising. This gave them a 3 star Charity Navigator rating, which I wasn’t happy about, but I felt they made up for that fact with their innovative ideas.

    Not long after the Pat fundraiser I donated to their China Earthquake relief fund, which was having a matching funds benefit. I was sent a letter stating that the matching funds goal had already been reached, so my donation wouldn’t be matched. I certainly didn’t mind; I was glad to give. I did mind when they continued to advertise matching funds a week after I received that letter.

    I also minded, and continue to mind, the enormous amount of mailings I get from them, including the World Ark, their glossy, high budget magazine which I’m sure makes a lot of middle class Americans feel better about themselves, but probably doesn’t feed any poor people.

    This is not the status quo. Charity Navigator lists many 4 star charities in International Development and Relief with better efficiency records. Most of them are in the 80-85% range, but there are exceptional organizations that really put their money where their mouths are. A couple examples:

    Action Against Hunger provides sustainable sources of nutrition and clean water so poor communities can cope in the long term, and has 89% efficiency.

    International Rescue Committee, Einstein’s brainchild, which assists refugees displaced by war and natural disasters in finding new homes and livelihoods has 90%efficiency.

    /endrant

    P.S. sorry that was so long winded
    P.P.S. I <3 Kvothe

  57. John Nevets
    Posted July 19, 2009 at 12:21 AM | Permalink

    hmmm,

    The Chronicler’s Corral

    The Name of the Duck

    Kvothe’s Corral

    The Wise Man’s Fund

    The Wise Man’s Tribute

    Books for Birds

    Books for Beaks

    As much as I like Waystone Fund, it does sound too formal, or like a Banking fund. My opinion is that to reach the widest audience the term should have some fun or whimsy in it (like this blog). And I think that can be done without being too silly or exclusive, like Geeks for Goats is. I would give money to that fund, but I could see how others would be hesitant. That being said, I also like the idea of tying the name to this blog or the story that brought us here, once again with out being too exclusive.

    Anyway, just my thoughts, I’ll donate again no matter what it is called.

    John

  58. Anonymous
    Posted July 19, 2009 at 5:46 AM | Permalink

    When you first introduced this fundraiser you said that the people at Heifer’s wouldn’t be able to do anything with your picture, aside from maybe put a cow next to it and plead your need for them.

    You have been proven wrong. And if we have anything to say about it you will be there next year.

  59. Erin
    Posted July 19, 2009 at 6:47 AM | Permalink

    Defiantly sounds like something I’m interested in.

    As for a name, the best I can think of is “Kingkiller Kampaign.”
    Perhaps replacing the “C” with a “K” is a bit too much… And “Kingkiller” is a bit of an odd name for a charity.

  60. Anonymous
    Posted July 19, 2009 at 1:15 PM | Permalink

    The ‘Sympathy Fund’ suggestion is the the best imo.

  61. Christy
    Posted July 19, 2009 at 2:32 PM | Permalink

    I like Worldbuilders Ink. :)

    This is my first comment as I have just found your blog after searching for your second book. Then I found all the mean things people were saying about it not coming out for a while, and I was like WTF?!

    I just want to say you take your time with it, because you are a wonderful writer and I can’t wait to read it no matter how long it takes to pump out those words. :)

  62. D
    Posted July 19, 2009 at 7:29 PM | Permalink

    I’ve read through the list of suggestions, and some of them are pretty funny. However. This is an extremely noble cause, not a joke, and though we are (mostly) a bunch of goofy booknerds and fiction geeks, this charity will be a representation of our higher natures as globally responsible caring human beings. So, laughter aside, we’ll find ourselves with more credibility, respect, wider representation, and more converts is we go classy.
    Of the names presented my vote would be for The Waystone Fund or Worldbuilders’ Ink. Both of these names play to our common interests while leaving room for a host of really nifty interpretations.
    The Waystone Fund carries with it the mythology of travel, passage, safety, community, and building something monolithic and enduring – a solid foundation for a journey of growth. It sounds like paving the way and making a way, like producing possibilities for people to form their own journeys; a Way set in Stone, immutable and yet brimming with new horizons.
    Worldbuilders’ Ink draws to mind, well, world-building. Creating the world we dream of and helping others to build their own. The pluralization makes it more accessible and community-oriented. As for Ink, I’m not above a little play on words, and ink is a medium for giving permanence to art, be it drawn in words or images. Ink is power, like a cartographer’s pen or a printer’s press opening the world to people.

    The Waystone Fund or Worldbuilders’ Ink are your strongest options. I lean toward the Fund, but either one will make a great name for a philanthropic organization such as this.

  63. An Albino Druid
    Posted July 19, 2009 at 9:54 PM | Permalink

    Alright, D, you have convinced me, because that is a very beautiful way to put it. My votes are officially for Waystone Fund and Worldbuilders’ Ink.

    IIn fact, and this may be reaching a bit…

    But how about just “The Waystone Fund, by Worldbuilders’ Ink”?

    Beautiful. Is that not the most mature sounding charity you have ever heard of!?

  64. Anonymous
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 12:54 AM | Permalink

    Worldbuilders’ Ink

    This name helps to include the many other authors (i.e. worldbuilders) that contribute all that cool stuff.

    A possible variation could be “The Worldbuilders’ Fund”

  65. Kathryn
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 3:38 AM | Permalink

    I agree, The Waystone Fund is the best. Personalization along with the message of being a money raiser.

  66. kytyn
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 3:48 AM | Permalink

    Samantha,
    Charity Navigator doesn’t take into consideration the Passing on the Gift part of Heifer International. (X) dollars go to Program Expenses for (Y) animals but (Y)x2 animals are actually given when the baby animals get passed on to the neighbor. (And then you get (Y)x3 when ~that~ neighbor passes one on, etc.)

    For people looking up Heifer on Charity Navigator – “Heifer Project International” is the actual program that gives the animals and educates the farmers; “Heifer Foundation” is the management branch so it has a much higher admin cost (but much lower revenue and expenses).

    Oh, and just do what I do and after you read your copy of World Ark leave it in public where it can also be ~passed on~. (doctor’s offices, break rooms, etc)

  67. Steve (HRputer)
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 2:06 PM | Permalink

    The Waystone Fund is a good one – as it allows you the freedom to sponsor other efforts from the same fund. Just as would Worldbuilders Ink. However, I believe that Strunk & White disciples might argue that it should be Worldbuilders’s Ink . . . ;)

  68. LordMortimur
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 4:51 PM | Permalink

    This comment is regarding D’s post: I could not have said it better myself.

  69. Ben
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 6:43 PM | Permalink

    Patrick RothFund?

  70. Mike
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 6:58 PM | Permalink

    I like puns and silliness as much as anyone, but I agree with Pat that the name probably shouldn’t be too silly. Along those lines, maybe something like “Fantasies Coming True,” or “Fantasy Coming True.”

    If we really want to go with puns, maybe “Fantasists Coming Through” or something along those lines.

  71. jeff
    Posted July 20, 2009 at 7:54 PM | Permalink

    dulator’s dimes? denna’s heart-shaped fund? patrick-rothfuss-has-an-amazingly-big-heart-only-eclipsed-by-the-generosity-of-his-fans-fund? Kvothe’s pied pipers of heifer? whatever i have to pay to get more of that damnable resin?! Whatever you call it, I’ll be donating with a smile. (although I’m in line with the waystone fund)

  72. Julie
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 5:20 AM | Permalink

    Herding Compassion! …or not.

  73. JAB
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 9:54 AM | Permalink

    “Will write for food”
    Sorry, that suggestion just made me smile. I know it can’t be used for obvious reasons, but I still love it :)

    I’m not very creative,sadly. I do have a lot of opinions though :D I happen to like “Feeding the Fantasy” because of the nice dreamy feel that it has. If that isn’t satisfactory maybe “bibliophile money pile” mostly because of the way it sounds. Waystone fund is good; however, I think it sounds TOO professional. There were some other clevers ones as well that related your name, Pat. In the end, whatever name you choose is fine with me :)

    As for the comment relating the book release and that in order to put someone’s name for the character, it would have to wait until after the fundraiser, I agree that it is very sad that anxious fans like me will have to wait even longer for the next book. However, I came to terms with that fact immediately after reading Pat’s blog pertaining to the book release. I want the upcoming book to be as good as the first and better if possible (only Pat could achieve this), after all, The Name of the Wind is one of the best fictional books I have read in years (even topped the seventh book in the Harry Potter series) and I must say I read more than the average person ;) If we have to wait until 2025, the book, I’m sure, will blow everyone away, literally. Time yields perfection, not 100% of course, but the longer we wait the better the book, just a simple fact.

    I’m writing a novel myself haha. Well Pat, I hope you are doing well and the same to your girlfriend and family. I’m sure the fundraiser will succeed even greater than last time, even without all the new awesome prizes. Thank you for creating such an amazing book and being the hilarious, intelligent person you are :)

    -Pat’s Avid Fan

  74. Danikacm
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 12:44 PM | Permalink

    Get the Wise Man’s Fear published.

  75. Charles
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 3:46 PM | Permalink

    This time around things may be a bit bigger. As such, you may want to hold off on the promise to match all funds. Instead, let us pledge to match another donation. I’m sure whichever company handles the background details can make that work. I’d be willing to pledge to match. I’m sure I’m not the only one.

  76. The Art of Kim Kincaid
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 4:48 PM | Permalink

    I like “Sympathy”. Compassionate Magic.

  77. bruleeblog
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 5:28 PM | Permalink

    If you’re thinking of an auction you should go have a gander at this one to get some ideas.

    http://www.brendanovak.com/auction.shtml
    http://brendanovak.auctionanything.com/

    I bet Brenda would be willing to give you advice too, ’cause she’s nice like that.

  78. Sam
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 6:09 PM | Permalink

    @ Kytyn,

    You bring up a good point about Passing on the Gift. One of the ongoing frustrations of Charity Navigator and other charity review sites/organizations is the lack of Effectiveness rating. Obviously no matter how high your fund efficiency, effectiveness is the most important thing. It would be a major undertaking, but trying gauge effectiveness would be a real boon to poor givers like me. :)

    When I watched a few of their Passing on the Gift ceremony videos I teared up, it definitely seems like an empowering thing. And as I said before, their system is innovative and I totally respect them for that. I just wish I didn’t get several fund raising mailings from them a month, because it doesn’t make me want to give them money, and I’m sure it’s a big budget sink.

    I also like your idea of leaving the World Ark in public places. It’s a fun read with a good layout. If I just got the Ark I’d feel better about Heifer.

    My feeling is that I won’t give to them this year, but if I see some small improvement by next year it will show me they’re trying and I’ll give to them then.

    @Pat, OMG I love MS Paint Adventures

  79. Anonymous
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 7:41 PM | Permalink

    Waystone and Worldbuilders’ Ink got me thinking:

    Lodestone Ink: Saving Villages

  80. matthew
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 8:28 PM | Permalink

    I actually heard about you for the first time from the Heifer Intl. magazine. I just acquired your book and plan to start it tonight.

  81. jason.moseley
    Posted July 21, 2009 at 9:32 PM | Permalink

    Based on the fact that “other people in the Fantasy and Sci-fi publishing world pitched in,” it appears that a name befitting a wider variety of writers is needed; not just something NotW-related.

    * Literary Realms Contribution
    * Fantasy Fiction Fund
    * Writers for Heifer International

    Bland, but broad.

  82. Angela
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 2:03 AM | Permalink

    Oh Danikacm, you have committed quite the faux pas. I believe Pat even wrote an entire blog about internet etiquette. (Perhaps some HTML code savvy person can provide a link?). So, taking a leaf out of Pat’s page, I will assume you *actually* meant, “I really love The Name of the Wind and can’t wait for the sequel! Take your time, though, because I can imagine how much work goes into providing your avid fans with quality and lengthy prose.” This seems preferable to what you seemed to say: “Who cares about baby ducks and charities? You should focus all of your efforts on ME!”

    Warm wishes,
    diabolusfetura

  83. Karsh
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 4:17 AM | Permalink

    Worldbuilding 101?
    Project Arcadia?
    Fantasy Come True?
    Tauri for Tarbean?

  84. merus
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 6:02 AM | Permalink

    Honestly I’d just go with “Worldbuilders”. Split it out into two words to emphasise that Heifer essentially builds a world for the people it helps, instead of dropping a magically appearing hospital that doesn’t have the society behind it to keep it running (which is, of course, the problem worldbuilding tries to solve).

  85. An Albino Druid
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 6:11 AM | Permalink

    I would like to propose a toast and possible round of applause for Angela, the Angel Who Put Danikacm in his place.

    Here here!

  86. Captain Joe
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 8:22 AM | Permalink

    Some fantastic ides all throughout this post!

    I’ve been thinking on it for the past few days and came to two unfortunate truths:

    1. I’m not very creative – damn. And;

    2. You shouldn’t microwave instant noodles. Ever.

    I’d avoid the pun, Pat, people don’t often laugh at puns – they groan. ‘A form of wit to which wise men stoop and fools aspire’. I can’t remember who said that.

    Anyway, pennies are being saved.

    All the best.

  87. Andreas
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 1:22 PM | Permalink

    Fantastic Funds? (Since both Sci-Fi and Trad-Fiction authors contributed)

    […] Ex Libris?
    Pace/Pax Ex Libris? (Peace From Books)

    Pecunia/aes/bursa Ex Libris?
    (Money/Funds From Books)

    Cibus Ex Libris? (Food From Books)

    Or a derivative: Cibus Ex Figmentum (Food From Fiction)

    Adjuvo Ex Libris?
    (Help From Books)

    A pun on Goats From Geeks? Ovis Ex Libris? (Sheeps From Books)

    Panis Ex Libris? (Breads From Books) Though I would recommend a *very* clear typesetting and font.

    Stipis Ex Libris? (Gifts From Books)

    Please recognize that I know absolutely zero latin and used an online dictionary to generate words. You’d have to check with someone who actually understands Latin to find the right usage.

  88. NoTroll
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 1:50 PM | Permalink

    How about combining two that seem to get the most inc to get Waystone Ink Fund or Waystone Fund Ink? Some pun and some more serious.

  89. GrayemAshe
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 5:51 PM | Permalink

    Here’s a few I thought up after reading the hopefully getting the idea behind Heifer International.

    Happiness Helps

    Creative Consequences

    The People Project

    I hope none of these charity names exist. If they do, sorry had no idea, but hey great minds and all that. :)

  90. logankstewart
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 8:33 PM | Permalink

    I like Waystone Fund and Worldbuilder’s Ink. With the “Ink” added, it could serve as a bridge to artists that illustrate the fantastic, too, who wish to donate.

  91. The Pluralizer
    Posted July 22, 2009 at 8:49 PM | Permalink

    This may be a little late, but Worldbuilders, written as one word and as part of the proper noun Worldbuilders Ink., is a plural noun. Unless you are stating that the Ink (which is a pun on the designation Incorporated) belongs to the Worldbuilders, then go with it simply as a plural noun and not as a possessive. In other words, if you consider Worldbuilders Ink. to be a proper noun in its entirety, then the correct possessive would be Worldbuilders Ink.’s. You dig, no?

  92. Bridget
    Posted July 23, 2009 at 1:49 AM | Permalink

    Pat you should make Name of the Wind wordle posters (http://www.wordle.net/) for the fundraiser. They could be prizes, but honestly, I’d buy one. And, since I bought and autographed book last year (and already own 2 other copies) I probably won’t be buying another book. But if you had the poster, you could sign those? And, I bet it’d be a pretty sweet ass poster.

  93. Anonymous
    Posted July 23, 2009 at 2:14 AM | Permalink

    As much as I shouldn’t say this to a group of NotW Fans, I don’t think the name is all that important. Almost every(serious) suggestion is acceptable. You have already named it Baby ducks (ducklings?) why not stick with that. What ever you do don’t go to a vote.

    What is important is Sponsorship and on what scale. For some reason I feel like this might sound bad but: Don’t Match it this time pat! Please. You’ve got a new college fund to start :) But I was wondering if you have any plans for this? And if it would be possible to use the Ad and promotions for the Wise man’s fear to help? Or even add something about the charity on the back flap or something. I don’t know what kind of pull A Author who has only released One book is, but I am guessing its not that much. But your so likable and its charity.I know this is far to long a post but its way down here so probably nobody will read it anyway.

    P.S. Thanks Sara for I know you get far to little credit for the help you will and did give in this. But don’t let him make you do to much. And please help keep him in line. Oh, And what’s your(her) Favorite Name…. for the charity?

    –Plucky

  94. M
    Posted July 23, 2009 at 5:07 AM | Permalink

    I was hoping someone would find a way to work the character Trapis, the charitable man in Tarbean, into a name. Oh well; lot’s a great suggestions.

  95. Lisa
    Posted July 23, 2009 at 4:21 PM | Permalink

    I also though Trapis would be nice to incorporate but the name itself doesn’t exactly radiate congeniality. I do have to say that I am a big fan of Geeks for Goats although it’s not a “serious” name. But look at the name of the charity itself, Heifer. It that name inspires charitable feeling it’s because the charity has made it so, not because a large black and white mammal invokes the spirt of giving. Really, this whole drive is a subsidiary of Heifer therefore it make sence to stick of the animal theme. If we’re not going clever but slightly silly, I think it has to be a name that roles off tounge, smooth as melted butter, The Eolian Effort is good example.

  96. Nitro
    Posted July 23, 2009 at 4:45 PM | Permalink

    Maybe something like:

    Four Corner Creatures

    or

    Four Corner Critters

    They have the allusion to NOTW but also apply to our own world that we are trying to build into a better place. Plus there is the animal factor. I tried to come up with something that included reference to the Crockery but everything just sounded like we were going to slow cook the animals.

  97. The Hammer
    Posted July 24, 2009 at 12:19 AM | Permalink

    Go Angela! *clap* *clap* *clap* To all people who wish to force Pat to hurry up I would just like to say that if you want a high quality product, like NotW, you have to be patient. Otherwise, you will end up with just another LotR clone. Pat: take as long as you need to to make this book great! We all know it will be worth the wait

  98. Avala
    Posted July 24, 2009 at 2:51 AM | Permalink

    Sorry got another one! Wordbuilder’s ink.! but more than that i like the Waystone Fund. it sounds so…Kvothe…

  99. Matt
    Posted July 24, 2009 at 8:00 AM | Permalink

    Hei For Poor
    GoatEx
    Duck Socialists
    Ray of Hei
    FundForce
    GambitFund
    RaiseMoneyInStyle

    //m

  100. Ron D.
    Posted July 24, 2009 at 3:12 PM | Permalink

    How about FantaSeed?

    Combines the fantasy element with the idea of giving these needy families a living, growing gift to help them better their lives.

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