Method and system for implementing a sports marketing or civic organization

Abstract

A method and system for implementing a civic organization in which members are enlisted for advancing a common interest together with charitable organizations enlisted to be partners with the civic organization. Points are awarded to members based upon meritorious conduct such as service to one of the charitable organizations. Members may advance within the civic organization in response to the awarding of points. Members may receive benefit opportunities from rewards partners offering goods and services to members.

Description

STATEMENT OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/697,578, filed Jul. 8, 2005. That application is entitled “Method and System for Implementing a Civic Organization.” The provisional application is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to civic organizations. More specifically, the invention relates to a method for implementing a sports marketing or civic organization such as a spirit organization, a fraternal order or a civic group. The invention also relates to a system for implementing such an organization.

2. Description of the Related Art

Within the United States various fraternal orders and civic organizations have arisen. Examples of such organizations include the Kentucky Colonels, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Shriners and the Lion's Club. These organizations have various criteria for membership and have various missions. In some instances they may also operate at various levels of secrecy. However, they all hold themselves out as having, at least to some extent, a philanthropic purpose.

Further, fans of particular sports teams often seek to support and indicate affinity to that sports team. One way of demonstrating such affinity is to wear clothing having colors and symbols associated with a favored sports team or collect and own articles that include coloring or symbols of the sports team. Fans attending games may wear team-affiliated clothing, have signage and flags, or use equipment such as coolers, backpacks, cookers that have coloring or symbols with the sports team. For example, some such fans engage in “tailgating” cookouts at a stadium prior to games. Heretofore, such fans have been unorganized or loosely organized at best. Such individuals however are typically highly motivated as to the common interest. Also, these individuals generaly seek activities-related to that common interest.

A need exists for a civic organization that encourages among individuals that have a common interest, various activities related to that common interest, as well as community involvement and philanthropy. A need further exists for such an organization that offers advancement within the organization based upon activities of the organization, as well as community involvement and philanthropy. Further, a need exists for such an organization wherein advancement may be achieved according to a point system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A method for implementing a civic organization is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of enlisting members to be a part of the civic organization; enlisting charitable organizations to be partners with the civic organization; awarding points to members based upon meritorious conduct; and advancing members in the civic organization in response to the awarding of points. The meritorious conduct may include recruiting other members, performing charitable works for the charitable organizations, or achieving status in the community.

It is preferred that the civic organization market itself to attract members having a common interest. An example of such common interest includes various athletic teams such as those of the University of Tennessee. Alternatively, the civic organization may organize itself in association with other sports teams such as the University of Florida or Vanderbilt University. Further, the civic organization may establish itself in other contexts such as professional football, basketball, stock car racing, or a community civic entity. Thus, the civic organization may be a sport enthusiasts marketing organization providing activities and products of interest to fans of the particular sports team or entity. The activities include sport-related activities, parties, and events for fans as well as community beneficial activities through charitable organizations.

A system for implementing a civic organization is also provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a user interface for a server operator; a network interface comprising a web browser and a data link; and a server defining a website, a processor, memory and software for enabling the server operator to communicate with a plurality of users through a global data network such as the worldwide web. The website enables the server operator to receive information from a plurality of remotely located users that are prospective members so as to enlist the users into the civic organization as members. In another aspect, the system also allows the operator to receive information from a plurality of charitable organizations about opportunities for community service; receive information from the enlisted members and the charitable organizations about charitable work done by the members; post information about points awarded to members for their charitable work; and post information about advancement of the individual members based upon points awarded.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be better understood, certain drawings, flow charts or screenshots are appended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the appended figures illustrate only selected embodiments of the inventions and are therefore not to be considered limiting of scope, for the inventions may admit to other equally effective embodiments and applications. For example, the screenshots represent specific expressions of web pages. However, the invention is not limited to these specific expressions.

FIG. 1 presents a system for implementing a civic organization, in one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing steps for using the system of FIG. 1. Such steps include enlisting in the organization, performing charitable works to earn points, and advancing within the organization in response to earning points.

FIG. 3A is an illustrative screenshot for a home page for the website of the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3B is an exemplary screenshot for a common banner of the website.

FIG. 3C is a screenshot for an illustrative menu for the website.

FIGS. 4A-4C provide illustrative screen shots describing the mission of the civic organization.

FIG. 5 is a screenshot listing charitable organizations in partnership with the civic organization.

FIGS. 6A-6C are screenshots providing news about the civic organization.

FIG. 7 is a screenshot listing events of interest to members of the civic organization.

FIG. 8 is a screenshot providing contact information for users of the website.

FIGS. 9A-9C present screenshots for informational pages relating to enlistment and advancement.

FIGS. 10A-10D demonstrate illustrative screenshots allowing website users to order merchandise.

FIG. 11 demonstrates an illustrative screenshot of a rewards page allowing website users to obtain information from rewards partners.

FIG. 12 demonstrates a screenshot of an alternate embodiment of an enlistment page for members to obtain information and link to a enlistment web page.

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a screen shot of an alternate embodiment regarding enlistment of members in the organization.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Definitions

As used herein, the term “server” refers to any computer, mainframe, client, PDA or code-driven apparatus that may be placed in electrical communication with a global data network such as the worldwide web.

The term “charitable works” refers to any charitable or philanthropic act, including volunteering time, providing professional services, or donating money.

The term “civic organization” refers to any organization that operates, at least in part, to provide acts of community service. The civic organization be a sport enthusiasts marketing organization providing activities and products of interest to fans of the particular sports team or entity. The activities include sport-related activities, parties, and events for fans as well as community beneficial activities through charitable organizations.

The term “rewards partner” refers to any company, business, or other entity that provides goods or services to the public.

Description of Specific Embodiments

FIG. 1 presents a system 100 for implementing a civic organization. The system 100 first comprises an operator 110. The operator 110 is a human director of the civic organization. The operator 110 preferably operates through a server that serves the civic organization. For this reason, FIG. 1 denotes the reference number 110 as a desktop computer. Of course, it is understood that the server 110 may be any software-driven device that may be placed in electrical communication with a data network such as the worldwide web 115. For example, the server 110 may be a free-standing computer or may be part of a local area network.

A communication link between the server 110 and the web 115 is shown at 102. The link may be wireless, or may be a telephone or digital cable line. A modem or Ethernet card (not shown) typically connects the server 110 to the communication link 102.

The computer 110 typically includes a user interface 103 such as a keyboard, a screen and a pointing device. The computer 110 also includes a processor unit 114 which holds software and communicates commands to and from the user interface 103. The software will include an operating system such as the known Unix™ operating system, Microsoft Window™ operating system, Apple™ operating system or Linux™ operating system. The software will also include a plurality of applications for performing various features such as electronic mail.

The server 110 includes a website 112. The website 112 is placed in communication with the web 115 by a network interface 140. The network interface 140 is typically an internet service provider, or “ISP,” which enables the website 112 to be presented to a plurality of remotely located system users 120, 130 on the web 115. A web browser 142 is installed in the computer 110 to facilitate communication of the website 112 from the computer 110. The browser 142 may be any one of a number of commercially available browsers such as Netscape Navigator™ or Internet Explorer™. In this manner, the server 110 provides a web-based platform for a business.

The computer 110 includes a memory 150 for storage of data and instructions. The memory 150 also forms a database that holds information acquired by and generated through the website 112. The database 150 may be freestanding or may be associated with the processor 114 on the computer 110.

FIG. 1 shows a plurality of users 120. These are denoted in FIG. 1 as users 120a, 120b, etc. The term “users” is intended to be generic and encompasses both members of the civic organization and interested non-members. FIG. 1 also shows a plurality of charitable organizations 130. These are denoted in FIG. 1 as organizations 130a, 130b, etc. Further, a plurality of rewards partners 141 may participate in the system 100. As discussed below, reward partners 141 participate by providing goods and services to members through an authorized benefit opportunity, as discussed below with reference to FIG. 11.

Each of the users 120 and each of the organizations 130 may employ a network interface 140 such as an internet service provider which enables users 120 and organizations 130 to establish contact with the website 112 on the server 110. The network interface 140 will include a web browser which enables the users 120 and organizations 130 to establish contact with the server operator's website 112 through the worldwide web 115. A communication link 102 is provided between each network interface 140 and the web 115, which may be either a wired or a wireless link. Alternatively, the users 120 and organizations 130 may communicate with the director of the civic organization (also represented by the reference number 110) through traditional means of mail and telephone 160. Lines 162 represent such communication means. The reward partners 141 generally communicate with the civic organization 100 through traditional means of mail and telephone 161 although it is within the scope of the invention to provide suitable web pages whereby reward partners 141 may readily place, edit, and remove membership benefit offers, as discussed below with respect to FIG. 11.

In order to implement the system 100, the operator of the website 112 (or director of the civic organization 110) will solicit memberships from the universe of users 120. Members may also be solicited by other members. The operator of the website 112 (or director of the civic organization) will likewise communicate with charitable organizations 130 to arrange for partnerships with the civic organization. Members who from time-to-time perform community service under the auspices of the civic organization for and through a charitable organization 130, receive credits for promotion or advancement in the civic organization.

FIG. 2 presents a flowchart showing steps by which a user 120 may participate in the civic organization. Of significance, FIG. 2 includes the step 260 by which a member may advance within the organization.

First, the user will contact the civic organization. Preferably this occurs by a user 120 accessing the system 100 by communicating with the website 112 through the data network 115. This step is demonstrated schematically through Box 200 of FIG. 2. The user 120 will be presented with a “home” or welcome page 10 (as shown in FIG. 3A) of the website 112. The home page 10 will then be viewed as shown by the step of Box 210.

FIG. 3A presents an illustrative screenshot 10 for a welcome page for the website 112. The illustrative welcome page 10 relates to an illustrative website having a domain name “bigorangearmy.com.” It is to be understood though that this domain name and the web page expressions presented herein are merely an example, and that the present inventions are not limited to this particular URL or web page structure.

Reviewing the home page 10, it can be seen that the page 10 has a variety of features. These optionally include advertiser links 11, an informational field 13, a banner 20 and a menu 30. The informational field(s) 13 introduces the user 120 to the civic organization. The banner 20 and the menu 30 may be standard for some or all of the pages on the website 112. FIG. 3B shows the banner 20 in isolation, while FIG. 3C shows the menu 30 enlarged and in isolation.

With reference to FIG. 3, the illustrative menu 30 includes the following links: “Home” 10′, “Mission,” 40′, “Enlist” 50′, “News” 60′, “Events” 70′, “Gear” 80′, “Photos” 12′, “Press” 14′, “278th” (or other units) 16′, “Kids Area” 17′, “Charities” 90′ and “Contact” 35′. Many of these links are considered “informational,” such as “Mission,” 40′, “News” 60′, “Events” 70′ and “Photos” 12′, The user 120 may review these links to learn about the civic organization and its mission in accordance with the step of Box 220 in FIG. 2. It is to be appreciated that the menu 30 is merely illustrative, and the present invention is not limited to any particular naming convention or formatting of the website 112.

After the “Home” link 10′ in FIG. 3C, the first informational link in menu 30 is the “Mission,” 40′ link. This link takes the user 120 to page 40, seen in FIGS. 4A-4C. FIGS. 4A-4C provide illustrative screen shots describing the mission of the civic organization. In the example of page 40, it can be seen that the stated mission is to “unify the communities throughout Tennessee and enhance the lives of our citizens through recognition, community awareness and activism, and [charitable] participation.” Thus, philanthropic work by those residing in the State of Tennessee forms a point of common interest by which to attract members to the organization. A civic organization based on a common interest of a sports team may have a mission to “support, promote, and engage in activities involving the sports team and its affiliated entity, such as a university or professional team.

It should also be noted from FIGS. 4A-4C that the State of Tennessee has been divided into east, west and middle sections. In keeping with the military theme of the illustrative civic organization, each section or region is referred to as a “Division.” Thus, as seen in FIG. 4A, the eastern portion of the state is denoted as “First Division.” FIG. 4B indicates that the middle section of the state is the “Second Division,” and the western section of the state is the “Third Division” as shown in FIG. 4C.

It is also noted from FIGS. 4A-4C that the State of Tennessee has been divided into its counties. In keeping with the military theme of the illustrative civic organization, each county is referred to as an “Infantry” unit. Thus, a person from Shelby County, Tennessee would be in the 75th Infantry, Third Division. A person from Knox County would be in the 1st Infantry, First Division. The particular number associated with each county is selected by the organizer when establishing the organization. A new member's registration packet will preferably indicate their infantry and division assignment. A flag or T-shirt may also be provided to the new member.

It is recognized that users 120 from out of state may wish to join the civic organization. An additional Division may be created to recognize individual members that do not reside within a county in Tennessee. It is to be appreciated that the invention is not particularly limited to a structure for the geographic state of Tennessee, but is readily adapted to other geographic entities, such as other states and counties, or in an alternate embodiment, subdivided further to counties and towns, or in an alternate embodiment subdivided by nations and geographic or other divisions within those nations.

The Menu 30 provides other informational links. Photographs (not shown) of members or events of the civic organization may be seen by pressing the “Photos” 12′ link. Activities for children are described in a page (not shown) entitled “Kids Area” 17′. Recent articles about the civic organization may be viewed on a page (not shown) through the “Press” 14′ link. From time-to-time, the operator 110 attends to uploading changes to the content of the various webpages accessible through these links.

FIG. 5 is a screenshot 90 listing charitable organizations in partnership with the civic organization. This page 90 is accessed by clicking the “Charities” 90′ link. The charities link provides access to web pages of the various charities participating in the organization.

FIGS. 6A-6C show screenshots 60 providing news about the civic organization. This page 60 is accessed by clicking the “News” 60′ link. The news content includes visual, graphic, text, and audio information and content that may be authored by the organization or by another content provider.

FIG. 7 is a screenshot 70 listing events of interest to members of the civic organization. This page 70 is accessed by clicking the “Events” 70′ link. The events page 70 lists events and activities of interest to the members of the organization, and particularly include events at which the members may participate. By participating, members earn points required for advancement in the ranks as discussed below. These events include activities related to the common interest of the organization (e.g., tailgating parties at sports events involving the sports team), as well as participating in activities of other civic and charitable organizations. The membership of the organization accordingly provides a significant source of participants who are highly motivated, organized, and willing participants in organized events related to, sponsored by, or endorsed by the organization. Thus, a charitable organization providing a fundraising activity such as a walk, run, or other fundraising event, can affiliate through the organization and solicit participation by the members of the organization. Through the affiliation with the organization, the charitable organization has access to the organized membership. The members participating in the particular affiliated events earn points required for advancement in the ranks.

FIG. 8 is a screenshot 35 providing contact information for users of the website. This page 35 is accessed by clicking the “Contact” 35 link.

Returning again to FIG. 2, the flow chart differentiates between (1) users that are members, and (2) users that are simply interested in the civic organization or its website 112. Step 250 asks if the user is a member. If the user is a member (shown at Box 252), then the user may simply review the events page 70 to learn about organization events or the charities page 90 to learn about local service opportunities. This step is demonstrated by the “Advancement” box of Box 260. Participation in organization activities and/or local service opportunities present members with the opportunity to accrue points for advancement within the organization.

If the user 120 is not a member (shown at Box 254), then the user is invited to enlist. The step of enlistment is shown at Box 256 of FIG. 2. FIGS. 9A-9C present screenshots for informational pages 50 relating to enlistment and advancement. This page 50 is accessed by clicking the “Enlist” 50′ link.

With reference to FIG. 9A, page 50 includes a section 52 regarding enlistment. This section 52 lists the benefits available for members. Second, the page 50 has a section 54 concerning the process for becoming a member. Included in this process is the completion of an “Enlistment Card” 56. The card 56 is preferably mailed 162 to the civic organization director 110 through a public mail or private courier service 160. However, it alternatively may be completed and tendered online. Upon completion of the card (physically or online) and payment of the enlistment fee, the user becomes a member and is issued a dog tag having a number. The new member may also be issued any number of membership indicia or regalia including a military helmet or pot, a ranking certificate, a badge or fabric patch bearing a symbol or indicia of a rank or level within the organization, camouflage-themed clothing, sports team related clothing, themed articles of a souvenir nature; or other items. Third, the ways in which a member may advance are discussed in a section 58 of the page 50. These methods are generally described as “recruit” 22 and “participate” 26.

Recruiting involves bringing in other members. This step is schematically shown in Box 262 of FIG. 2. Participating involves performing charitable works. This step is schematically shown in Box 264 of FIG. 2. Charitable works refers to any charitable or philanthropic act, including volunteering time, providing professional services, or donating money. Either activity will bring about advancement 260.

It is noted that community status may optionally be a means of advancement. For example, the local mayor may be made an honorary general. This optional step is shown in Box 266 of FIG. 2. Page 60 of FIG. 6A describes certain local celebrities being made “Honorary Brigadier Generals.”

Upon completion of recruiting 262, organization activities 263, or charitable work 264, the member may report the advancement information. This is shown at Box 272 of FIG. 2. Alternatively, the charitable work 264 may be reported by the charitable organization 130 in accordance with communication links 102 or 162. Also, the attendance by the member at an activity of the organization, such as a party, tailgate event, travel to an “away” game, or other such organization event, likewise may result in participation points for advancement in the ranks. In one aspect, an enlistment document is signed by the member at the site of the charitable organization. The member provides a name, a dog tag number or both. The document may be at a booth sponsored by the civic organization, or may be a sheet of paper left at the site. Preferably, advancement 260 is calculated according to an objective points system. FIG. 9C includes a section 28 that describes points needed to advance in rank. In the illustrative system, advancement is according to military rank. Section 24 of FIG. 9B describes one military ranking scheme. However, other military or non-military hierarchy may be employed. Advancement in rank provides for recognition, facilitates access to particular events, and enables the member to acquire different apparel or memorabilia such as a fabric patch bearing a symbol or indicia of the rank.

It is preferred that the website 112 permit members to check their rank or other advancement status online. It is preferred that the website 112 be fully open to all viewers, and no log-in or password required. This permits ranking to be a matter of public record and personal pride. Either actual names or pseudonyms may be listed. Preferably, though, the membership number such as the dog tag number of the member is provided.

In one aspect, the website 112 will list memberships according to Division, Infantry and dog tag number. Users 120 of the website 112 can quickly see which Division or Infantry has the most members, and correlating ranks. When a member “reports for duty” such as by attending an event of the organization or appearing at a sponsored charity work event, the member reports his Division, Infantry and dog tag number. The organizers of the event collect the information and report to the organization. The points earned by the member at sponsored charity events help the member advance in rank. When tailgating at an event, the member may fly a flag reflecting this Infantry or Division.

FIGS. 10A-10D demonstrate illustrative screenshots 80 allowing website users to order merchandise. This page 80 is accessed by clicking the “Gear” 80′ link. Merchandise may include hats, shirts, swimwear and other items. Orders may be placed through the mail 160 or online 102.

FIG. 11 demonstrates an illustrative screen image of an alternate embodiment of a webpage in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, the menu 330 is displayed as a header banner on the page and includes the active links discussed above respect to FIG. 3A. Photos 12′ has been renamed to “gallery”, press 14′ has been renamed to “news”, and gear 80′ has been renamed to “shop”. The link rewards 302 displays informational fields 304 for rewards partners affiliated with the civic organization. The rewards partners are companies, businesses, or other entities that provide goods or services to the public and participate with the civic organization by providing these goods and services to members of the organization at a discount or under special terms as an authorized membership benefit opportunity. The informational section 304 includes a rewards partners logo field 306, a rewards partner name 308, a rewards partners address and phone number 310, a valid through date 312 and a rewards or benefit description. The logo field 306 can include an active web link allowing the member to connect by the web to the web site of the rewards partner 308.

The screen 300 further includes an inquiry information field 320. Companies interested in being a rewards partner are invited to contact the organization marketing department for arrangements, such as through the field 320 and a link on that page to a contact submission page (not illustrated). Members of the organization are also invited to activate the benefits provided by the rewards partners. Particularly, benefits may be activated by displaying dog tags or membership identification at the time of purchase. Alternatively (not illustrated), the members are directed through a link on the field 320 to a rewards benefit page for printing a coupon or other document reflective of the particular benefit offered by the rewards partner.

The rewards partner 308 interacts with the organization by mail, telephone, or other communication mechanism. The rewards partner arranges with the organization to become authorized to provide member benefits opportunities. There may be a fee paid by the rewards partner to the organization. The rewards partner schedules presentation of the rewards benefit on the rewards page 302 of the organization website. These arrangements include the details about the rewards benefit opportunity for the members, the partner information including name 308 and address 310 as well as the duration or through date 308 for the offer 314. Although not illustrated, the present system 100 includes a separate accessible webpage by which the rewards partner may enter the rewards information for presentation in a rewards field 304, including the logo 306 and website for direct linking, the offer 314, the rewards partner information 308 and 310 and the through date 308.

FIG. 12 demonstrates a screenshot 320 of an alternate embodiment of an enlistment page accessed through the link 50′ for members to obtain information and link to a enlistment web page. This enlistment page 320 includes the heading banner with links noted above in FIG. 11. In this embodiment in keeping with the military theme of the organization, separate activity divisions are provided for an Infantry Unit 322, an Iron Cavalry Unit 324, a Heavy Mechanized Unit 326, and an Amphibious Unit 328. The Infantry Unit 322 is specialized unit for persons who walk or drive to organization events. The Iron Cavalry Unit 324 focuses on motorcycle enthusiasts. The Heavy Mechanized Unit 326 groups RV tailgaters and similar outdoors enthusiasts who typically set up “base camps” away from home with tents, RV trailers, campers, and cooking equipment. The Amphibious Unit 328 includes boaters and others involved in water sports and activities. Further, the special divisions can be sponsored or affiliated with a rewards partner. Typically, such special sponsorship may include special advertising or information from the sponsor. Sponsors may pay a sponsorship fee to the organization. For example, the Infantry Unit 322 may be sponsored by a shoe company or an area footwear retailer. The Iron Cavalry Unit 324 may be sponsored by a motorcycle dealer. The Heavy Mechanized Unit 326 may be sponsored by RV manufacturer or retailer. Likewise the Amphibious Unit 328 may be sponsored by a boat manufacturer or retailer. In the illustrated screen shot, a link 330 connects the enlistee to a page for receiving member information (not illustrated). A side portion 332 displays photos and information about celebrity members.

FIG. 13A illustrates a screen shot of an alternate embodiment of an enlistment screen 350 for members to join the organization. Without limitation and for illustrative purposes, the enlistment screen recruits for an organization for sports enthusiasts of the University of Tennessee. The enlistment screen 350 includes an information field 352 with a link 354 for obtaining a recruiting pack for enlisting in membership.. The screen 350 includes membership information generally 356 and with reference to FIG. 13B includes information links 358 to the specialty units discussed above with reference to FIG. 12. The enlistment page 350 further includes information as to the hierarchal structure generally 360 of the military-theme organization. Units comprised of small numbers of members make up increasingly larger units, in accordance with military structure. In the illustrated example, individual members can be subsequently grouped into a “fire team” of up to five members commended by a corporal; a squad has up to 15 members commanded by a sergeant, and so forth as indicated in the informational field 360. In the example given, a squad may be comprised of three fire teams. Further, a platoon of sixty members commanded by a sergeant first class may be comprised of four squads. The particular leaders of each of these units can attend to planning activities and participation by the unit in the activities of the organization. As each individual increases points, the rank of the individual can change as indicated with reference to FIG. 9C.

In an example for illustrative purposes to explain the practice of the present invention, a sports enthusiast who owns a small company may enlist his employees as a group of the sports enthusiasts organization. In such, he would be the leader of the group and be provided indicia or symbols indicative of his rank. His rank would depend initially partially on the number of persons in his group. Each employee or enlisted member would receive member benefits of the organization, and be entitled to participate in organization activities, charitable events, and the clothing, gear, symbols, and equipment associated with the organization as described. Accordingly, the present invention provides a sports marketing entity for an interactive fan organization using a military theme and structure as a platform for involving fans of a sports team with the sports team and its affiliated organization, in addition to providing a source of motivated and active persons for participating from time-to-time with charitable and civic activities whereby the charitable and civic organizations benefit and the individual members benefit while participating in the organization.

In an illustrative embodiment, the present invention implements and operates a sports enthusiasts civic organization, in which one or more persons having an interest in a sports team enlist as a member of the sports enthusiasts civic organization. The organization can be named for the sports team or using words referring to a symbol, mascot, coloring, or other formative associated with the sports team and a word for the group, such as “Big Blue Army”, to designate the grouping of persons interested in the particular sports team. The organization has a military-themed hierarchy and the organization provides organized and planned sports-related activities for attendance by the members. The organization awards points to members based upon meritorious conduct in the activities. Each member can obtain from the shop 80′ various indicia reflective of the points awarded to member. This indicia includes rank insignia (following the military-theme of the organization in accordance with the present invention) for application to clothing and articles of the member, as well as specific clothing that includes brand names and team colors of the sports team of interest. Through participation in organization events and activities, members advance in rank, and are entitled to particular indicia associated with the rank

With reference to the drawings, the organization provides an interactive website through which the civic organization and the members may communicate as to activities including photographs of members during activities and events, news about such activities, events, and information related to the sports team of interest. Member can be enlisted by receiving information from users of the website, electronically or through the mail. Members advance in rank (and privileges and responsibilities) through points or status. The organization provides information to members as to their level of advancement, or members determine their level of advancement by referring to an assigned membership number on the website.

Points may be awarded for meritorious conduct by the member, which conduct includes, but is not limited to, recruiting other members, acquired community-status, and participating in the activities and events. One type of activity involves the organization enlisting charitable organizations as activity partners. The meritorious conduct of the member comprises performing charitable works for the charitable organizations, such as participating with the organization in fund raising and charitable work of the charitable organization as arranged and coordinated with the organization. The organization also offers to its members merchandise reflecting the common interest of the members (i.e., clothing and articles bearing the colors and symbols of the particular sports team, such as the illustrative example the sports enthusiasts civic organization supporting teams of the University of Tennessee) In yet another aspect, sports enthusiasts civic organization may enlisting rewards partners such as local retailers and service providers that offering goods and services to members typically at a discount or with a featured benefit.

It is noted again that the civic organization preferably offers a theme that provides a common point of interest among its members. In the example of the “Big Orange Army,” the members will typically reside in the State of Tennessee and will be fans of the athletic teams of the University of Tennessee. However, themes involving other states or other schools may be invoked. For example, a civic organization in Louisiana might be named “Tiger Mike's Army.” Such a civic organization may become affiliated with the university in promoting its sporting events, and each member's dog tag may reflect the name of the civic organization and bear a licensed trademark from the university.

Themes involving professional sports such as NASCAR™ may be selected. Still further, themes involving individual athletes such as “Earnhardt's Army” may be selected. Further still, themes involving brands such as “Hawaiian Tropics™ Army” may be employed. A civic organization reflecting such common interests and which embark upon charitable work and which advance members such as through a military-style ranking system is thus provided.

The present invention accordingly provides an apparatus and method that enables engaging persons in an organization of common interest for facilitating civic and charitable activities while also promoting the common interests of the members and providing benefits to the members. The specification accordingly has described the present invention for implementing a civic organization, including the steps necessary for making and using various embodiments thereof. It is to be understood, however, that numerous changes and variations may be made in the implementation of the civic organization within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and that modifications and changes may be made therein without departing from the scope thereof as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for implementing a sports enthusiasts civic organization, comprising the steps of:

enlisting one or more persons having an interest in a sports team as a member of a sports enthusiasts civic organization;

providing sports-related activities for attendance by the members;

awarding points to members based upon a pre-determined criteria;

providing a rank to the members based on points; and

advancing members in the civic organization in response to the awarding of points,

wherein members, obtaining points, are entitled to obtain indica related thereo.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of providing a website through which the sports enthusiasts civic organization and members may communicate.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the step of enlisting members is done by receiving information from users of the website, electronically or through the mail.

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising the step of providing information to members as to their level of advancement.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein members may determine their level of advancement by referring to an assigned membership number on the website.

6. The method of claim 1, where at least one criteria is meritorious conduct related to the activites;

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the meritorious conduct comprises recruiting other members.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising enlisting one or more charitable organizations to be partners with the sports enthusiasts civic organization; and

wherein the meritorious conduct comprises performing charitable works for the charitable organizations in affiliation with the sports enthusiasts civic organization.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein the meritorious conduct comprises achieving status in the community.

10. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of offering merchandise reflecting the common interest of the sports enthusiasts civic organization.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the common interest is the athletic teams of the University of Tennessee.

12. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of enlisting rewards partners offering goods and services to members.

13. A method for implementing a civic organization, comprising the steps of:

enlisting members to be a part of the civic organization;

enlisting charitable organizations to be partners with the civic organization;

awarding points to members based upon meritorious conduct; and

advancing members in the civic organization in response to the awarding of points.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of providing a website through which the civic organization may communicate with members and charitable organizations.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the step of enlisting members is done by receiving information from users of the website, electronically or through the mail.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising the step of providing information to members as to their level of advancement.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein members may determine their level of advancement by referring to an assigned membership number on the website.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the meritorious conduct comprises recruiting other members.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the meritorious conduct comprises performing charitable works for the charitable organizations.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein the meritorious conduct comprises achieving status in the community.

21. The method of claim 13, wherein:

the civic organization markets to attract members having a common interest; and

the method further comprises the step of offering merchandise reflecting that common interest.

22. The method of claim 13, wherein the common interest is the athletic teams of the University of Tennessee.

23. The method of claim 13, further comprising the step of enlisting rewards partners offering goods and services to members.

24. A system for facilitating a civic organization, comprising:

a user interface for a server operator;

a network interface comprising a web browser and a data link;

a server defining a website, a processor, memory and software for enabling the server operator to communicate with a plurality of users through a global data network, the website enabling the server operator to: receive information from a plurality of remotely located users that are prospective members so as to enlist the users into the civic organization as members; receive information from a plurality of charitable organizations about opportunities for community service; receive information from the enlisted members and the charitable organizations about charitable work done by the members; post information about points awarded to members for their charitable work; and post information about advancement of the individual members based upon points awarded.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein:

the civic organization markets to attract members having a common interest; and

the website further permits members to purchase merchandise reflecting that common interest.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the common interest is the athletic teams of the University of Tennessee.

27. The system of claim 24, wherein the website provides information on advancement within the civic organization.

28. The system of claim 24, wherein the website provides information from at least one rewards partner offering goods or services to members.

29. The system of claim 24, wherein the civic organization is a sports marketing organization.

30. A method for advancing in a civic organization, comprising the steps of:

enlisting as a member within the civic organization;

receiving a membership number from the civic organization;

receiving a rank from the civic organization;

performing charitable work for a charitable organization, the charitable organization having partnered with the civic organization;

reporting the charitable work to the civic organization;

receiving points for the charitable work; and

advancing within the civic organization in response to the receipt of points.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the step of enlisting as a member comprises:

completing an enlistment card; and

submitting the enlistment card to the civic organization.

32. The method of claim 30, wherein the step of enlisting as a member comprises entering personal profile data on a website of the civic organization.

33. The method of claim 30, further comprising the step of reviewing a website of the civic organization to determine current rank.

34. The method of claim 32, wherein:

the rank is a military designation;

the membership number is a dog tag number; and

the step of reviewing the website to determine current rank is accomplished by looking up one's dog tag number.

35. The method of claim 30, further comprising the steps of:

recruiting other members; and

receiving points for recruiting other members.

36. The method of claim 30, wherein the civic organization markets to attract members having a common interest.

37. The method of claim 30, further comprising the step of purchasing merchandise from the civic organization reflecting the indicia of the civic organization.

38. The method of claim 30, wherein:

the rank is a military designation; and

members are assigned to a military unit based upon a geographical location.

39. A method for forming a coalition of civic organization, comprising the steps of:

creating a plurality of civic organizations, each organization being designated as an “army” based upon a common interest of members;

enlisting member within the respective civic organizations;

enlisting charitable organizations to be partners with the respective civic organizations;

awarding points to members based upon meritorious conduct; and

advancing members in the respective civic organizations in response to the awarding of points.

40. The method of claim 39, further comprising the step of providing websites through which each of the civic organizations may communicate with its members and charitable organizations.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein the step of enlisting members is done by receiving information from users of the websites, electronically or through the mail.

42. The method of claim 39, further comprising the step of providing information to members as to their level of advancement.

43. The method of claim 39, further comprising the steps of:

issuing a member number to each member of each civic organization; and

issuing a rank to each member of each civic organization.

44. The method of claim 39, further comprising the step of enlisting at least one rewards partner for providing a benefit opportunity to members.