I was first contacted via a nicely worded letter stating, You were recently chosen as a potential candidate to represent the professional and business community of Chicago. I was also told my candidacy was formally approved, although when I asked who submitted my name I was told that that information was confidential. The letter goes on to explain that in order to be "validated" I must respond within seven business days. I filled out the short questionnaire, really out of curiosity. The letter was dated February 14 and I replied at once. Yesterday I was contacted by phone and went through their interview process.
I will briefly summarize my story as I write this complaint, April 2. All of this information was given freely to a woman who identified herself as Ms. Kimberly Diehl.
I had a work related accident in 2003. Since then I have gone through three major surgeries with one to be done in the near future. Prior to that, I explained that I did volunteer at community meetings as a co-facilitator. These meetings composed of local residents and representatives from The Chicago Police, specific to our "beat. Since my accident, I have not done anything note worthy except try to manage my life between painful procedures and manage on very little money each month. This has been especially difficult since SSI Disability is my only source of income.
In all fairness, I shared with Ms. Deihl that I aspire to volunteer in my immediate community; it may be years before I can be truly active. Perhaps I may receive some recognition for this project in the future, but that the project was only in its planning stage. When I mentioned that the presentations I want to give to neighborhood groups and various organizations had the potential for saving the city money, she said, "One of Chicago's Mayors was a member. It was about that time that the red flags started to pop up. We have only one Mayor here in Chicago and that he has been our mayor for over twenty years. She said something to the affect that it may have been a mayor from a suburb of Chicago.
I also explained that this accident and subsequent medical bills had cost me my home and all retirement savings. Clearly, although I have hope for my future, and this was a valid opportunity, I would have little to no value to their other members at this time. Despite this, she continued to expound on the vast networking benefits membership had to offer me. The initial letter even ended with this sentence, " Ms. S., on behalf of our Committee I salute your accomplishments. Welcome to the Biltmore Who's Who roster.
Finally the money pitch came. Clearly based on what I had told her frankly about my physical limitations and financial problems, I was offered "the Platinum Membership" good for a lifetime for over $1,000.00. When I said this would be impossible, I was then offered the "Gold" level for over $600.00. Again, I explained my financial position; the final "opportunity" would be something like a test drive for over $350.00, to keep me in the precious placement reserved especially for me. I had to pay immediately via credit card, which at this time I do not have. I could use a debit card, but their administration fees would be higher for some reason. Just prior to ending our conversation, she was emphatic that I let her know no later than this Monday or she would have to give my "spot" to someone else.
In retrospect, I see how this group can so easily get their foot in the door.in my case, I am depressed from the surgeries, lost wages, lost friends, and ultimately the loss of my home. Then a letter comes along promising me a respected position within a business community spanning the globe, a guarantee of recognition and acceptance was an enticement, nothing more. Sadly, and I believe this strongly, I feel this whole registry was designed to prey on the most vulnerable. Many people, like myself are out of work for one reason or another. And many, like myself would love to be deserving of accolades for recent achievements. The truth is I haven't earned it, yet they insist I pay for a false resume' immediately. If my opinion keeps even one person from wasting what little thay might have, it would have been worth my time to expose this obvious farce.
Yours Truly
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