Fundraisers

A third-party fundraiser is any fundraising activity organized by a non-affiliated group or individual where the American Red Cross, Greater Buffalo Chapter has no fiduciary responsibility and little or no staff involvement.

 

The path to launching a third-party event typically begins with an idea and a plan of action that is presented to the American Red Cross. The group or individual must complete an application and submit a signed Third Party Contract. Upon careful review, we will assist the potential organizers in examining a variety of factors to determine if the proposed event is viable. Although we actively encourage third-party fundraising events, all such events must be approved by us in advance. This is an important safeguard to preserving the integrity of the American Red Cross name and our commitment to raise the funds necessary to fulfill our mission in a cost-effective and efficiant manner. While we are able to provide guidance for your event, we do not have the personnel to handle the organizational and administrative tasks associated with third-party events. Therefore the event sponsor is responsible for all details of the event including:

 

 

 

1.      Organizers must sign a Third Party Event contract.

2.      The event will be promoted in a manner to avoid statement or appearance of the American Red Cross endorsing any product, firm, organization, individual or service.

3.      The American Red Cross must approve all promotional materials, including but not limited to advertising, letters, brochures, flyers and press releases prior to production or distribution.

4.      All promotional materials must clearly state the percentage of proceeds that will benefit the American Red Cross.

5.      The American Red Cross should receive a list of targeted sponsors for the event before they are approached to minimize overlap with other Red Cross events and/or fundraising campaigns that may be underway.

6.      American Red Cross can provide collection canisters and informational materials promoting the organization, its goals and accomplishments. Advance notice is needed regarding the quantities needed for the event.

7.      Event organizers are responsible for obtaining all permits especially those for raffles and/or games of chance.

8.      Event organizers must obtain their own liability insurance to cover the event

9.      Under no circumstances should third-party event revenue and expenses flow through American Red Cross books. Only the final net proceeds from the event are to be processed by the American Red Cross.

10.    American Red Cross should receive a complete accounting of all funds collected and expenses related to the event. We reserve the right to inspect all event financial records.

11.    American Red Cross is not financially liable for the promotion and/or staging of third-party events.

 

Reminder: First complete and submit an application giving us information about the proposed event. Once the application has been submitted, we will review it. We will do our best to contact you within approximately 7 days with our decision. Please do not move forward with your plans until you have bee notified of our decision. Thank you for supporting the American Red Cross.

 

 

 

Listed below are some of the many ways that you can help us help others during times of disaster. All proceeds of these fundraisers/events benefit the Greater Buffalo Chapter, and make it possible for us to carry out our mission of helping victims of disaster and preventing, preparing for, and responding to emergencies. We thank you in advance for your support!

 

Please keep in mind that the Red Cross is not authorized to provide official Red Cross donation canisters unless distributed by a Red Cross representative under official guidelines.

 

Host a benefit party/concert, a silent auction benefit, a talent show, etc.

 

The Greater Buffalo Chapter will be here to assist you along the way but please be advised that hosting an event requires considerably more work on your part. You must determine the date, location, and logistical details and be responsible for all promotions.

 

If you would like to host an event, please send your name, address, and phone number, along with a detailed description of your plan to the Greater Buffalo Chapter at (716) 878- 2396 or e-mail at moorem@usa.redcross.org