How the group started:
Through the years I have seen that simple donation did not work. The proof @ShankHunt received really little donation. I have spent more than 10 years on forum. When Qingdao arrived, I left some messages to suggest to share the cost of lab test. One member contacted me
@AD. Then we talked about how to make a group and to get other people on board. After getting more members we were able to pay our first lab test.
We use skype for talking. Probably not the best but we have the possibility to vote there.
Because one of our strengths is we do not have a boss. Everyone is equal. We vote for everything/anything. Everyone has some missions. Example mine is to talk for the group and to contact sources.
Most important is transparency. We are transparent on each step of the process. We have no interest and earn nothing from this group.
All our tests are blind tests. We take photos of product, package etc, for proof.
Our goal:
Harm reduction for everyone, not only for the group.
A big part of our test lab are public. We will do our best to have all of them public.
If we really find something harmful, we will tell it to the world straight away.
Having some power over the sources in order to get more test labs. All for health safety.
Since we started, we have noticed already a big change on many sources on meso FR. Nowadays they all publish lab tests. Which was not always the case before. So again, this part has helped everyone.
What the group is really about:
One thing that most of you do not know, is that we are not just a group of lab tester. We are a group of bodybuilding passionate people. We exchange on many topics. We are all friends there. One of our unwritten rule is to try to participate in our conversation once in a while for example.
This privacy gives us a space where we can talk a bit more freely
Rules:
There was no rule at first. Over the time we all make rules together. All pretty fair. However, no one can cross them without getting a sanction.
Sources:
We play fair with all sources. We try to collaborate with them as much as possible in a total transparency with everyone.
@Liska here can testify. We never ask or accept money or product in return of favor. No source knows what the test lab is before paying for it. This guaranty the honesty of everyone.
On that point I can say that the sources who collaborate with us are the most professional ones. They know they have good product and nothing to hide. I thank them for that.
Money:
It seems that money management is an issue for some.
The group is like a car. Without fuel it does not go anywhere. You need money to keep testing.
Member started by putting 25e each. Over the time whoever wanted to add money have done it. This was a big help at first. Now we also rely on refund from sources. Both combined have help us to pay for around 20 test labs. Thousands of dollars fund raised and spent. This is just the beginning of it.
No one in the group make any money, or get free gears or anything else. Some sources add a bit extra for postage and product, that is it.
A secret!
For the stingiest people. The truth is we share good tips about cryto, and some other special tips. So, at the end a lot members got much more than what they spent for participation.
Where to start to make a US group:
Get some trusted members. Talk together. Put money in a pot and start.
Choose carefully who handle the money, etc.
It will grow by itself little by little.
Bear in mind, this ask a lot of work and time.
I will be happy to answer any question that could help to set up a US group.
I will not answer crying babies who keep asking for all lab tests. As I said it all depends of sources if they are out or not. Ask them directly why it is not out.
