2008 Annual Report

Our mission and focus remained the same in 2008, to build and get PET vehicles to those most in need where PET would best be suited using a volunteer network. Although with our current production of about 35 PETs a week, it is ever more important to find new distribution partners. We made new connections with GAiN (Global Aid Network) and The Orphan Grain Train. 1,691 PETs were shipped to our partner mobility organizations, who distribute the PET overseas free of charge. In addition 78 used wheelchairs and other mobility devices were collected and given to one of our mobility partners for refurbishing and distribution with PETs.

We have continued to be blessed by volunteers across the country that make and deliver parts to us at their cost, promote PET, and volunteers in Columbia who assemble, box for shipping, and load shipments. The volunteers who work in the shop alone provided over 5,000 hours of service. These dedicated volunteers help keep the average cost of a PET at about $250 and stretch donor dollars farther. Major highlights included a fundraising project organized by the MO United Methodist Church Conference*, and our local volunteers who won the HERO Award in the group category from The Columbia Tribune and the Voluntary Action Center.

Revenue
PET MO – Columbia, Inc. is a tax-exempt 501c3 nonprofit supported by those who believe in its mission of mobility. This support comes in the form of contributions from individuals, churches, and businesses (cash, discounted or free PET parts/off the shelf items). For example we have vendors who are supplying free goods such as pallets for shipping, steel springs, and vinyl for the seats. Total revenue for FY 2008 was $533,952 ($85,659* was received for and remitted to another PET Affiliate who was part of a major fundraiser by the MO United Methodist Church Conference). Donations were up 9% from FY 2007.

Expense
We continue to look for the best price/use of funds whether in shipping, buying supplies/parts, etc. Total expense for FY 2008 was $548,450 (*see revenue). Program expense (building PETs, shop space and equipment, shipping, and reporting materials to tell the story and educate the public including our quarterly newsletter) was $506,328 or 92%. Fundraising expense was $14,353 or 3%. Management and General (office equipment, supplies and general costs of office, office support, and postage) expense was $27,769 or 5%.

In early 2008 the five Rotary Clubs here in Columbia, MO, won a $20,000 grant from Rotary International to build 80 PETs and deliver to their Rotary counterparts in Mexico. Each week six to eight members from a different Rotary club in town came and did the special shipping preparation and became solidly bonded with PET. In April 80 PETs were loaded onto a truck for Cuernavaca, Mexico. We have now received some pictures of a distribution there on the International Day of the Disabled, December 3, 2008. We are thrilled to see this process of fundraising, building & shipping PETs, and distribution come full circle over the course of a year.

Board, Officers, and Staff

Susan Williams, President

Industrial Engineer for 14 years, management and inventory systems.  

• Dr. Roger Hofmeister, M.D., MSPH, Vice President
• Lee Jones, Trustee
• Larry Garvin, Trustee
• Sarah Hill, Trustee
• Gary Moreau, Trustee
• Richard Hanson, Trustee
• Mike McMillen, Trustee
• Larry Wilcox, Trustee
• Jim Wall, Trustee
• Rev. Max Marble, Trustee
• Warren Zahler, Trustee
• Steve Baima, Ad Hoc member Executive Director for PET International

Mel West, Executive Director and Founder

Retired United Methodist Pastor, past dairy farmer and agriculture teacher. Currently is also on the board for Rainbow Network. Has served on the international boards of Habitat for Humanity, Heifer Project, SIFAT, and ECHO. Extensive travel and consultation with various mission projects.

Kathy Maynard, Treasurer and Secretary (Business Administrator)

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