I think we've all made it through Girl Scout cookie season at this point and I certainly didn't buy any from my coworkers' daughters, though the order sheets were plentiful.
The latest is that today we are having a baby shower for a gal in Accounting. I certainly support it and want to contribute, but it's grown out of hand.
First we are all required to chip in $15 for the purchase of a playpen. 50 people times $15 makes a $750 playpen. I have no children, but that seems ridiculous. I am concerned the money gatherer is pocketing this cash bonanza.
Then on top of it, we are having a potluck. When I saw the sign up sheet, folks had listed the usual cheese, salsa, a salad, soda... No actual food, as in a protein. Usually with company sponsored events, the company picks up the tab for the burgers and we brings the sides. This is not a company sponsored event. So I offered to bring some chicken, but $10 worth of chicken is not going to feed 50 people.
I'm $25 into this luncheon and have decided not to eat rather than take food away from those in the company who earn significantly less. Plus I'm half Italian and we have issues about holding events without enough food to feed the entire US Army.
I'm just ranting here. There is no question or solution sought, but while I certainly want to support my coworkers in these one-time events, I'm questioning the motives and the money handling.
Perhaps you have experienced the same thing? I know social events at work are important, but I could go broke with every fundraiser, birthday, special activity.