Frequently Asked Questions

Looking to create your own fundraiser for REACH? Before you get started, check out these frequently asked questions.

  • How do I start my own fundraiser? First, come up with your brilliant idea! Then, reach out to our Development Team at development@reachma.org. One of us will get back to you ASAP!
  • Are there restrictions on fundraisers? Your fundraiser must align with the mission and image of REACH Beyond Domestic Violence for us to endorse it. We'll let you know if we're concerned with any aspect of your fundraiser during our initial call.
  • When can I host a fundraiser? Whenever you'd like; our program runs year-round. Although, fundraisers of 100+ participants cannot be scheduled on the same day as an event hosted by REACH Beyond Domestic Violence without our prior approval.
  • What can I name my fundraiser? REACH can only be identified as the beneficiary of your fundraiser. For example, it cannot be called "REACH Beyond Domestic Violence’s Bake Sale"; instead, it should be "Bake Sale benefitting REACH Beyond Domestic Violence."
  • Can I designate my funds raised? Yes! If you have a particular program in mind, please discuss this during the initial call with your staff partner.
  • Can someone from REACH attend and/or speak at my event or committee meetings? We cannot guarantee staff or volunteers at your event. Please contact us at development@reachma.org, and we will do our best to fulfill staffing requests.
  • Are there any guidelines around sponsorship and in-kind donations? To avoid duplicate solicitations, we ask that you notify us before asking a business or company for a donation, cash or in-kind.
  • Can I have a raffle at my event? To legally conduct any gambling activity or "game of chance" in Massachusetts, including raffles, bazaars, and "Las Vegas night" events, your organization must maintain 501c3 status and acquire a permit from the clerk of the city in which the fundraiser will take place. For more information, visit the Department of the Attorney General's website.
  • What about an auction? Yes! You can absolutely host a silent or live auction. As a reminder, when advertising any items in a silent or live auction, you must display the fair market value. No items can be priceless because the donor will not be eligible for a tax receipt. REACH Beyond Domestic Violence will only issue IRS-compliant tax receipts if the donor pays beyond the fair market value and if payment is made directly to REACH.
  • Does REACH provide event insurance? The fundraising coordinator (that's you) are responsible for obtaining any permits or insurance.
  • Will you help promote my fundraiser? We're here to guide you, and we provide tools to help you promote your event. We can't manage your event, provide donor lists, stationary, or promote on REACH property.
  • Can I use the REACH name and logo? Yes, you can request logos from development@reachma.org. Whenever you use our logo or name, your final piece (flyer, etc.) needs to be approved by our staff before it goes public.
  • Can you post my event on the REACH social media pages? We love sharing fundraisers good news! Contact your development staff partner to discuss REACH sharing your event photos and success on our social media. Please note, we do have guidelines to follow, and posts are at the discretion of our staff.
  • Can I post about my fundraiser on social media? Yes, it's a great way to promote your fundraiser and spread the word! We recommend that you share your fundraiser, so your friends and family can read your story and easily donate online—even if they can't attend an event.
  • Should I send a personal thank you card to my donors? Yes, we hope you do! You can request note cards from development@reachma.org.
  • Do I need to create a 501c3 (non-profit) organization to host a fundraiser for REACH? No need! You just need to reach out to us for approval.
  • Can REACH issue tax receipts to my donors? REACH will issue IRS-compliant tax receipts to the full extent of the law, only if a donation is made payable directly to REACH Beyond Domestic Violence along with detailed contact information of the donor. Please do not promise any kind of receipts; issuing an inappropriate receipt can hurt our charitable tax status.
  • Can I pay myself back for expenses I've incurred? You're responsible for covering event expenses and will not be reimbursed by REACH. If you are paying for expenses, please deduct these from the funds raised prior to sending your donation check.
  • Where do I send proceeds? All proceeds need to be made payable to REACH Beyond Domestic Violence and mailed to us (PO Box 540024, Waltham, MA 02454) within 30 days of completing your fundraiser.