News

It's beginning to look a lot like reason ...

Friends,



As we near the end of 2011, I'm pleased to say that this has been the JREF's most productive and effective year on record.

We've made some major strides this year in standing up for rational thinking in a world of widespread belief in the paranormal and other harmful claims -- our media work including our appearance on Primetime Nightline, our nationwide challenge to proponents of homeopathy and the pharmaceutical chains that peddle it, our zombie horde that made headlines at James Van Praagh’s “Spirit Circle,” our new free educational materials, the grants and scholarships we've awarded, our support for local grassroots activism, our new ebooks and mobile apps, the ever-increasing success of TAM, and much more!

None of that would have happened if not for the support we received from concerned and dedicated skeptics and science advocates like you during last year's Season of Reason. Like most other nonprofits, the majority of our annual donations come in during this critical year-end period, and that largely keeps us going for the following year.



Now we at the JREF are focused squarely on 2012... and it's beginning to look a lot like reason.

We're gearing up to enter 2012 with some momentum – and thanks to the hard work and dedication of the JREF staff, we’re preparing exciting new initiatives for coming months, as well as expanding several current projects. But I must tell you that it is only with your generous support that we can possibly do this.



We’re asking you to help us raise $220,000 to support the JREF’s skeptic grassroots and educational programs that will be the backbone of our work in the next year. If you believe that skepticism and critical thinking can make the world a better place for all, then please stand with us now.



There has never been a better time to contribute to the JREF. Consider this: an anonymous JREF member has challenged other supporters with a pledge to match all Season of Reason donations made in the next 72 hours, dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000!



If you can help us get this full matching donation, we’ll spend it over the next year on teaching students to think critically about the world, supporting skeptical grassroots campaigns, and taking on more public figures who promote dangerous nonsense.



Won’t you help us meet this challenge? Every dollar counts... and if you give right now, your dollars will count twice!



The JREF is an independent non-profit so all your tax-deductible donations are used for the sole purpose of promoting critical thinking to the public and advancing our skeptical, pro-science, pro-reason mission. 2012 is going to present many opportunities to share our perspective and our philosophy with the public, and with the JREF on the front lines as never before, we need more support than ever. Your contribution will make a big difference!



Please help with your most generous gift today.



With sincere thanks,







James Randi, Founder



P.S. – When you contribute $100 or more to the JREF's Season of Reason campaign, our thanks to you will include a limited-edition, hand-made, three-inch ceramic ornament by Surly-Ramics. The design on this year's ornament is of my likeness as "SkeptiClaus," based on a great photo of me taken at The Amazing Meeting 2011 by Ingrid Laas. I must say I rather like it. Who said skeptics are all just curmudgeons?!



P.P.S. – I’m told that our annual Season of Reason ornaments have quickly become a collector’s item. Hundreds of JREF supporters participated in the 2010 Season of Reason, and by doing so again this year, you’ll add to your collection. Don't miss your chance to keep your collection – and the JREF – going strong!