Ernie Malamud

The many supporters of Claire Tappaan Lodge (CTL) are turning their attention to increasing use of the lodge. The future of our Clair Tappaan Lodge is not assured until it can reach the breakeven point. Historically the Lodge has attracted 11,000 to 12,000 overnight visitors per year. Breakeven is between 14,000 and 15,000. Increased day use and fundraising events also will improve the bottom line.

Two volunteer groups have been organized: a Marketing Team and a Public Relations Team.

The Marketing Team currently consists of about a dozen volunteers who live in or near Auburn, Chico, Davis, Grass Valley, Marysville, Nevada City, Oakland, Palo Alto, Reno, Sacramento, Santa Rosa, Tahoe City, Truckee. They are contacting bicycle clubs and bicycle shops in their area to get the word out how great both road biking and mountain biking is in the Donner Pass area and how Clair Tappaan can be an excellent base for a biking group to use for a summer or fall outing.

The Public Relations Team writes press releases, usually about a specific activity or event at the lodge, sends them to the media and makes contact with reporters. This work can all be done from home and is a lot of fun. Recently we've had good success in getting coverage. While an article does not always yield sign ups for a particular activity, it raises awareness of the lodge among the general public.

There is plenty to do. Both teams welcome volunteers. There are many fun and rewarding ways to help. Please contact me at 530-470-8303 or for more information on any of these volunteer opportunities.