WorldBuilders 2011 and Patrick Rothfuss

I assume everyone that reads this blog is familiar with the WorldBuilders fundraiser run by Patrick Rothfuss the last few years. Just in case, last year Rothfuss helped to raise $190,000 from the community to go toward his favorite charity:

"Heifer International is my favorite charity. It helps people raise themselves up out of poverty and starvation. All over the world Heifer promotes education, sustainable agriculture, and local industry. 

They don’t just keep kids from starving, they make it so families can take care of themselves. They give goats, sheep, and chickens to families so their children have milk to drink, warm clothes to wear, and eggs to eat."

For 2011, Rothfuss set the bar even higher, with a goal of $250,000. They raised $310,000.

To help drive donations, Rothfuss donated many of his own books and memorabilia, calling on publishers around the country to do the same. Subterranean Press donated hundreds of books. DAW, Dreamhaven Books, and a ton of individuals, authors and fans alike, came forward to grow the pot to epic proportions. I had a chance to spend a good chunk of time with Rothfuss at ConFusion this past January and I can honestly say the charity was at the top of his agenda for the weekend. He spoke about it at every opportunity, and was handing out ribbons to those who donated. He's passionate about the cause and deserves praise for his work (as do all the other contributors).

Last night I received a Deluxe Hardcover edition of Harlan Ellison's Deathbird Stories from Subterranean Press. My name was chosen in the random drawing (each $10 of donated money, gets you one entry in the drawing). It was a nice surprise, but reminded me of the point of WorldBuilders. It made me aware that my donation barely covered the cost of the book in my hands. Long story short, my donation next year will be significantly higher. Not because I feel guilty, or compelled because I won something, but because it's a great cause and I can afford to give more.

Take this post as a reminder. The WorldBuilders drive usually starts a few weeks before Christmas and runs through the end of January. Keep your eyes peeled.