When federal tax rebate checks begin arriving this spring, a shopping spree won’t be on Penny Siefker’s to-do list.

And she’s hoping it won’t make yours either.

Siefker and friends Nathan and LauraLee Woodruff of Lincoln have launched a campaign asking Lincolnites to consider donating some or all of their rebate money to local organizations they believe help sustain the community — rather than indulging in some retail therapy.  

The three are behind www.notshopping.org. The Web site launched this week with the message that a national shopping spree using money the government borrows will not remedy the failing economy.

A lunch conversation about the tax rebate sparked the idea, said Siefker, who said she’s worked with several nonprofit groups over the years.

The government is borrowing money from China and people probably will end up spending the money on items made there, she said.

The campaign is an effort to ensure the money is put to good use here in Lincoln, she said.

“It just seemed like we all agreed this would be a very positive thing,” she said.

The Web site includes a list of organizations in need, which Siefker said she hopes to expand. As word about the campaign spreads, she’s hoping needy groups will make contact through the Web site.

On the list is Voices of Hope, which works with victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and incest and works to raise awareness about such crimes.

Executive Director Marcee Metzger said she was happy to hear about such a campaign, particularly as cuts to federal programs are imposed and donations slow.

Metzger said she is optimistic the idea will take hold, especially because the group has seen some extra donations in past rebate years.

“Lincoln is a very caring community,” she said. “It’s concerned about the quality of life for all of the people here.”

Siefker, meanwhile, said campaign organizers have no plans to keep tabs on donations. But, she has a good idea of what would be a fair measure of a successful campaign.

“If it does nothing more than get people to think about what they could do with their money, that will be success,” Siefker said.

Reach Jean Ortiz at 473-7107 or jortiz@journalstar.com.