An Opportunity to Share The Y-DNA test (25 marker) costs $169, and that is more than some can afford. At the same time, they would be happy to take the test if it didn't cost quite so much. That's were the rest of us can help. It is possible to contribute money to a general fund that would be made available as the need arises. It can be handled in one of two ways. Contributions can be made (any amount) by going to the webpage at http://www.familytreedna.com/contribution.html where you can use either a credit card, paypal, or regular mail to make a contribution to the general fund (not in anyone's name in particular). Then it would be up to the administrator to determine how the funds could be used as needed. I am not particularly in favor of this method for it places the responsibility on me to decide how the general fund money is allocated. A better idea, I think, would be to have individuals who are willing to be tested, but need assistance with the cost, to contact me privately, and provide me with the Bowles line that would be tested and the amount they would be able to pay toward the test. I could then share the need with the group and solicit pledges to cover the remaining cost. Once sufficient pledges were received, then those who had pledged could make their contributions in any of the ways listed above, and their money would go for that specific test. For example, let's say that a Mr. Bowles wanted to be tested, but could only afford to pay $50 of the cost. He would contact me privately, give me the information about his Bowles line, and agree to be tested if the remaining $119 could be raised. Then I would come to the group and say, "We have a potential participant in the Bowles DNA Project who needs some help with the cost of the test. He traces his line back to ___ . If you are willing to help with the cost of this test, email me privately and let me know." If a sufficient number of pledges were received, then the pledged could be redeemed with contributions to the general fund, and the test would be ordered and sent to Mr. Bowles. This could be an excellent way for you to participate in this project, either as a tester or as a contributor. Remember that this is totally voluntary, and that all funds would be funneled through Family Tree DNA. Comments and suggestions are welcome. Charlie Hartley Bowles DNA Project Administrator [mailto:hartley@iglou.com]