Anybody every been forced to give at a "work place giving" campaign like United Way? I have. I didn't really like that, but I gave anyway. I agree that generosity should not be mandated, takes some of the fun and surprise out of it. Even though I am new, I signed up for this one because I considered myself a vet in this instance. (<-Hey, look! I am one!) I just like giving.
I see where there is a concern from the established members that newbs might just want to mooch. I'll speak as a recent newbie here: it's a little intimidating breaking into the conversations and action that is going on. It's like a merry-go-round and you are trying to jump on this moving behemoth. Some of us are a little more boisterous and forward and don't have a problem with this. Others just lurk, or throw in an occasional comment. If this pass can bring in some of those on the fringe or help repair the damage of the Newbie Pass, then I'm in. There is already one here that said that this would be their first pass. We are all geeks, folks. This is just the view of someone on the outside looking in. You don't have to agree with me.
I also think that if we want to teach them geek generosity, then we teach them to give and receive. EVERYONE should get bombed! Maybe set a couple sticks aside in the pass just for the next one in line. Just an idea to help save this pass. I like what Jessica is trying to here and I'm game for whatever this turns into.
Respectfully, Aaron