The rapid expansion of the Internet has provided a resource whereby a large percentage of consumers are consulting the Internet for pre-buying information, a sort of do-it-yourself Consumer reports. MetroSite.com has created a central site where local merchants can present their goods and services. Traffic to the site is stimulated through newspaper ads placed by MetroSite.com.

Student fund raisers can directly benefit in two ways: first, by bringing this service to local merchants, the students can generate substantial funds for their project quickly and in much larger amounts than with old-fashioned product sales; second, the student fund raisers gain valuable real world experience while interfacing with local business entrepreneurs.

Each ad is 2 x 2", runs 24 hours a day for 365 days, and costs the merchant only $98 for the entire year. The student fund raisers receive $50 for each posting, so that 200 such placements will generate a $10,000 fund.

The merchants benefit through increased consumer awareness, greater traffic and larger sales. Also, the merchant has the opportunity to support a good cause.

Visit MetroSite.com for more information, or write to Arleigh Walker.