July 10, 2013, Lanham, MD: Digital Fabrication industry leader Potomac Photonics, Inc. has developed a new QR Code method to connect donors to the non-profit Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. Using the power of laser marking technology, Potomac created a powerful tool for marketing and fundraising for this worthwhile cause.
Potomac laser engraved a QR Code and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation logo onto key chains. When “read” by any free QR code reader app, information is automatically downloaded to a Smartphone. In the case of the Foundation, the QR Code link goes directly to the Donor page on their website. QR Codes are versatile in that data could also be encoded or contact information could be downloaded to a phone address book.
According to Carrie LeBow, Vice President of Resource Development, Cal Jr., Bill and their family started the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation in 2001 to honor their father’s legacy by using baseball to teach life lessons to at-risk young people. The Foundation’s programs now reach over one million kids in some of the most distressed parts of America.
Since the 2008 economic downturn and government cutbacks, fundraising for non-profits is even more challenging. The novelty of the QR Code link to the website not only captures the imagination of potential donors, it also ensures that recipients do not lose contact information since it is stored directly in their Smartphone.
The Ripen Foundation will give the key chains to Board Members, Committee Members and Staff to easily communicate with supporters. The fun but functional products will also be giveaways to attendees at special events and to potential partners. Of course, like everyone today the Foundation appreciates the Green aspect of QR Codes. Should information change it is simply updated on the website and new materials do not have to be reprinted, saving the waste of unused stock. QR Code technology is good for the environment and the bottom line.
Potomac CEO and President Mike Adelstein has been an Orioles fan his entire life and was excited by the prospect of helping the Ripken Foundation. “We love the idea of supporting such a great organization that takes America’s favorite pastime to the kids who need it most!”
About Potomac Photonics
For over 30 years, Potomac Photonics has been a leader in digital fabrication, working in advanced technologies such as microfabrication, 3D Printing, laser marking, and small hole drilling. Potomac’s contract services span prototyping to production, helping clients develop miniature products and bring them to market. Potomac has been recognized by both commercial and government agencies for innovation in areas such as medical device, electronics, aerospace, and automotive manufacturing. Potomac’s high-tech facility, located in Lanham, MD, is ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 13485:2003 certified. Please visit the website at www.potomac-laser.com
