There's never been any graffiti on any of his work - even in high schools, universities, or inner-cities.

Since 1988, Larry Cannon of Brick Sculpture by Cannon, Inc. (http://www.bricksculpture.com/) has been helping groups raise funds with memorial bricks. He's worked with hundreds of groups and helped raise millions of dollars. He's unique in the length of his business - 16 years now - and in the beauty of his finished work. Larry isn't just a brick engraver, he's a brick artist. He relies on fundraising projects to make money, but his heart is in the 6 foot brick logos or murals or pictures that are often the centerpieces of his work - each engraved by him, often glazed or painted to enhance the art.

Apparently this is appreciated, because in the hundreds of projects he's done, there's been no graffiti and only 1 case of vandalism...done on a local memorial to homicide victims.

Fundraising with memorial bricks is an easy way to raise funds. You simply pick a project, have a group of donors buy a brick, order the bricks and have them installed. It's not that hard.

But what about later? What's it like long after the funds are raised and spent? How does the city or school like yesterday's fundraising project years down the road?

We asked Larry about problems, since he's been in the industry so long. He's seen the problems and good points.

Vandalism isn't much of a problem. There don't seem to be too many problems...maybe keeping it clean. Algae can grow on it, depending on the location. And it occasionally should be pressure cleaned. Then there are only so many bricks that can be added. Donors often become interested when they see the brick walkway or wall....and then it may be too late to add them.

So we asked if there's some benefit to the project years later. It turns out that there is something. Donors have a sense of ownership long after the fundraising project is over. It gives donors a sense of belonging to the school or group that lasts for years, and a sense of ownership that belongs to their family and friends. "There's my grandfather's brick". After all, what else can you do that will last longer than your lifetime?

For comments or questions contact Elaine Johnson elaine@wsiweb4u.com

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