Frequently Asked Questions

I have never hosted or planned a fundraising event before; can I still be a RAINNMaker?
Raising money does not have to be difficult, but we understand that it can be intimidating.  Just keep it simple; invite people who care about you and the fight against sexual assault and you will be amazed how easy it can be.  Review our Event Planning Tips for more details on how to make your event a fundraising success.

Do I have to host an event, or can I just make a donation to RAINN?
You do not have to host an event, although it is an excellent way to raise awareness about sexual assault, in addition to introducing others to RAINN and the importance of supporting our organization.  However, if you would prefer to make a donation directly to RAINN, please visit:  http://www.rainn.org/donate/donate.php

Will RAINN help me organize my event?
RAINNMakers are generally responsible for planning and organizing their own event.  However, please review our RAINNMaker ideas, planning tips, guidelines, and safety information for any assistance you may need.  In addition, we can provide informational materials about RAINN including, wallet cards, GetCarded cards, and "About RAINN" flyers

Will RAINN help me cover the expenses for my event?
Because we are a non-profit organization, we are unable to provide financial assistance for any event.  This allows us to allocate as much money as possible to the services we provide, which currently is .84 of every dollar.

I have decided to host an event; what is the first step?
SIGN UP!  Once you have signed up, you can review all the materials we have provided to assist you in hosting a successful fundraising event.

Can I use your name and logo?
If you would like to use our name and logo on any publication-print or electronic-stating that you are hosting an event on behalf of RAINN, you must first sign up and fill out all the necessary forms to become a RAINNMaker.  You then will be required to provide a proof of the publication to RAINN, which we must approve before it goes public.

Will you advertise my event on your website?
Your tribute page is available to the public and thus serves as an advertisement, so keep that in mind as you fill it out.  If you are hosting a large-scale event that is open to the public, please contact us at membership@rainn.org to see if a web presence is possible.

Can contributors write a check to me and then I will write a big check to RAINN?
It is more appropriate for each individual donor to write his or her own check to RAINN or the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network.  This allows each contributor to receive a tax deduction and removes any potential skepticism regarding the legitimacy of your fundraiser.

Can people donate with cash or by a credit card?
Yes.  Please fill out a donation form for people that pay with cash so we can thank them for their support.  Never, under any circumstance, send cash through the mail, rather convert the cash into a money order or personal check.  For credit card donations RAINN accepts MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Discover.

Are gifts to RAINN tax deductible?
Yes.  RAINN is a 501 (c) (3) organization and all donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Will RAINN send thank you letters to my guests?
Yes.  RAINN will send thank you letters to everyone who makes a donation; therefore it is essential that you provide us with all the necessary contact information.  It should be noted that thank you letters also serve as receipts for tax purposes.

Will my event be covered under RAINN's insurance?
No. RAINN cannot assume liability for any damages, injuries, or any other mishaps that may result from your event. 

Who can I contact if I have any further questions?
Please email our membership department at membership@rainn.org or call us at 202-544-3561.