What is Texoma Gives and when will it take place?
Texoma Gives is a 16-hour, online giving event organized by the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation to grow philanthropy in Texoma and surrounding areas (24 county area in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma). Texoma Gives will kick off at 6 a.m. on September 5. All event related donations must be made through www.texomagives.org by 10 p.m. Early donations will be accepted starting August 22.
The minimum donation is $10 and there is no maximum. The goal is to inspire this Texoma region for 16 hours to contribute as many charitable dollars as possible to support the work of area nonprofit organizations. The hope is that each year Texoma Gives, which is based on other successful giving days hosted by community foundations across the country, will be Texoma's largest day of charity!
How does it work?
The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation has created an online platform at www.texomagives.org that will have searchable profiles of participating nonprofits and a real time leaderboard on the day of the event. All donations will be processed through this website. Nonprofits and donors can track fundraising totals throughout the day on the leaderboards on the website. Everyone can donate to their favorite nonprofits beginning at 6 a.m. on September .
The goal of Texoma Gives is to grow philanthropy in Texoma by connecting people who care with causes that matter to them!
Why give through texomagives.org?
We encourage supporting local nonprofits with year-round giving, but Texoma Gives a special event on September 5 - a charitable holiday! It's our day to celebrate Texoma's spirit of generosity and support the work of this area’s nonprofits. Plus, donations made through www.texomagives.org during that 16 hours will be eligible for cash prize awards by the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation and the participating foundations and sponsors.
Who can make a donation during Texoma Gives?
Anyone with a credit or debit card can make a donation to a participating nonprofit that has a profile on www.texomagives.org starting August 22, 2024. You do not need to have a Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation Fund or live in the Texoma area to donate. If you do not wish to donate on-line, please contact the WFACF office from 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. on September 5 at 940-766-0829 and the donation will be taken over the phone, or you can visit the nonprofit’s location and make your donation.
How do I make a donation?
Starting on August 22 through 10 p.m. on September 5, go to www.texomagives.org and use a credit or debit card to donate to a single nonprofit or to multiple nonprofits. You will have a full 16 hours on September 5 to make donations and will have the ability to search for nonprofits by name, category, location, etc. Participating nonprofits will have a profile page on www.texomagives.org where you can choose the amount you want to donate, starting at $10.
While the Texoma Gives website will perform optimally with most browsers, we always recommend visitors use the most updated version of your browser for a better and faster user experience for both you and your donors. Of these, our recommended browser is Google Chrome. That's because Chrome undergoes regularly-scheduled updates, and tends to be more reliable due to its adaptability to a wide range of features and functionality. Should you run into any challenges using the Texoma Gives site, please contact the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation at 940-766-0829!
Are donations tax deductible?
YES! Donations made through Texoma Gives are 100% eligible for a tax deduction. Donors will immediately receive an email confirming the donation from Texoma Gives, and Mightycause, the vendor chosen by Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation and the Texoma Gives taskforce to process this day’s activities. By selecting a specific charity to receive the donation, the gift is restricted for that charity and will not be given to any other charity. With Giving Days, it's hard to specify an exact designation for a donation. What we encourage those donors to do is write in their wishes in the "message" box on the donation form. It's up to the nonprofits as to how they use their individual funds. Once a donation is submitted online, it is final and we cannot refund or alter donations as stated in our Terms of Use. Donations made on TexomaGives.org are processed through Mightycause Charitable Foundation, which is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity that operates a donor-advised fund (DAF). According to federal regulations for DAFs, the contribution is considered complete and irrevocable - in part because of the immediacy of tax benefits.
What are the minimum and maximum donation amounts?
The minimum donation amount is $10. There is no maximum donation. All gifts made on www.texomagives.org are non-refundable.
When is the early donation period?
Donations will be accepted starting on August 22nd, two weeks prior to Texoma Gives.
What organizations are participating in Texoma Gives?
Our goal is to have the participation of all nonprofit organizations that are located in Texoma (24-county area of North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. See nonprofit registration for counties.) The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation will verify that all participating nonprofits are 501(c)(3) public charities and are in compliance with IRS reporting requirements. All participating organizations are required to register to participate by July 31, 2024.
What if a nonprofit is not listed on the Texoma Gives website?
Nonprofits are required to register to pariticipate by July 31, 2024. If a nonprofit does not have a profile on the Texoma Gives website, then donations cannot be made to it via www.texomagives.org. However, our effort is to make September 5 the largest giving day in Texoma and we encourage supporters to make a donation to the nonprofit via mail and encourage the nonprofit to participate in Texoma Gives next year!
How can I find out more information about the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation?
Visit the Foundations website at www.wfacf.org or contact us 940-766-0829 or wfacf@wfacf.org.
What if I still have questions about Texoma Gives?
Contact Leslie Petersen at Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation:
940-766-0829 or lpetersen@wfacf.org
Why give through texomagives.org?
We encourage supporting local nonprofits with year-round giving, but Texoma Gives is a special event on September 5 - a charitable holiday! It's our day to celebrate Texoma's spirit of generosity and support the work of this area’s nonprofits. Plus, donations made through www.texomagives.org during that 16 hours will be eligible for cash prize awards by the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation and the participating foundations and sponsors.
Who can make a donation during Texoma Gives?
Anyone with a credit or debit card can make a donation to a participating nonprofit that has a profile on www.texomagives.org on September 5, 2024. You do not need to have a Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation Fund or live in the Texoma area to donate. If you do not wish to donate on-line, please contact the Foundation office from 8:00 a.m. through 7:00p.m. on September 7 at 940-766-0829 and the donation will be taken over the phone.
When is the early donation period?
Donations will be accepted starting on August 22nd, two weeks prior to Texoma Gives.
How do I make a donation?
Starting on August 22 through 10 p.m. on September 5, go to www.texomagives.org and use a credit or debit card to donate to a single nonprofit or to multiple nonprofits. You will have a full 16 hours on September 5 to make donations and will have the ability to search for nonprofits by name, category, location, etc. Participating nonprofits will have a profile page on www.texomagives.org where you can choose the amount you want to donate, with the minimum donation being $10.
While the Texoma Gives website will perform optimally with most browsers, we always recommend visitors use the most updated version of your browser for a better and faster user experience for both you and your donors. Of these, our recommended browser is Google Chrome. That's because Chrome undergoes regularly-scheduled updates, and tends to be more reliable due to its adaptability to a wide range of features and functionality. Should you run into any challenges using the Texoma Gives site, please write in to the little blue chat bubble for immediate assistance!
What are the minimum and maximum donation amounts?
The minimum donation amount is $10. There is no maximum donation. All gifts made on www.texomagives.org are non-refundable.
How will this appear on my credit card statement?
All donations made on Texoma Gives Day will appear on credit card statements as “[Organization Name]."
What is Mightycause?
Mightycause is a nonprofit giving platform that helps nonprofits to raise money, engage donors and manage volunteers quickly and efficiently. Mightycause offers a full portfolio of simple and easy to use products that allows organizations to function in a more streamlined manner.
Do I need to create an account with Mightycause?
No. You do not need to create an account to make a donation. The benefits of creating an account include having your tax receipts collected in one location, being able to track your donations, follow the charities you support, and engage in future volunteering and donations. Your tax receipt is emailed immediately upon processing your donation. To claim a donation as a deduction on U.S. taxes, you should retain the donation receipt as an official record.
How much of the donation goes to the nonprofit?
Mightycause retains a 3% campaign management fee from all donations. Credit Card processing fees are an additional 2.5% + $0.30 for all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover). You are given the option to cover the fees and if you choose this option, 100% of your online charitable gift will go to the receiving organization. All donations are final and cannot be refunded. The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation does not retain any portion of the fees assessed by Mightycause. The entirety of a donor's gift goes directly to their chosen organization, less any uncovered processing fees.
Can someone give to more than one organization?
YES! Donations can be made to single or multiple organizations with the ability to donate in a single transaction.
Only the nonprofits registered on www.texomagives.org may receive donations during this event.
What organizations are participating in Texoma Gives?
Our goal is to have the participation of all nonprofit organizations that are located in Texoma (24- county area of North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. See nonprofit registration for counties.) The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation will verify that all participating nonprofits are 501(c)(3) public charities and are in compliance with IRS reporting requirements. All participating organizations are required to register to participate by July 31, 2024.
Can donations be made online using my smart phone?
Yes. Our technology provider has a "mobile optimized platform" that will make it easy to make a donation on www.texomagives.org using a smart phone.
Are donations safe and secure?
Yes! Mightycause uses safe browsers and goes through rigorous training and testing to make sure donations are secure.
Once a donation is submitted online, it is final and we cannot refund or alter donations as stated in our Terms of Use. Donations made on TexomaGives.org are processed through Mightycause Charitable Foundation, which is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity that operates a donor-advised fund (DAF). According to federal regulations for DAFs, the contribution is considered complete and irrevocable - in part because of the immediacy of tax benefits.
Beyond a donation, how can someone support nonprofits on this day?
Spread the word! Supporters can spread the word among friends and networks about Texoma Gives and the good work nonprofits do in the Texoma area through social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest) and word of mouth. Nonprofits may also have online media campaigns or other ideas to promote the day.
I have a donor advised fund at Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation. Can I use it for Texoma Gives?
YES! Please contact us at 940-766-0829 for assistance.
How will a donor be recognized?
Donors will receive an immediate thank you and tax receipt from Texoma Gives via email. It is a good idea for nonprofits to thank donors as well and let them know how their donation will make a difference. Donors can choose to make anonymous donations and will receive a tax receipt from the Texoma Gives but will not receive a thank you from the nonprofit organization.
Will the nonprofit organization send tax deduction letters?
No. The donor will immediately receive an email confirming the gift receipt from Texoma Gives during the event. But, the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation does encourage nonprofits to acknowledge donations by following-up with donors and sharing how their contribution helps to fulfill their mission.
What is the prize structure that nonprofits can win?
Prize information coming August 2024!
What is Mightycause?
Mightycause is a nonprofit giving platform that helps nonprofits to raise money, engage donors and manage volunteers quickly and efficiently. Mightycause offers a full portfolio of simple and easy to use products that allows organizations to function in a more streamlined manner.
What are the minimum and maximum donation amounts?
The minimum donation amount is $10. There is no maximum donation. All gifts made on www.texomagives.org are non-refundable.
How much of the donation goes to the nonprofit?
Mightycause retains a 3% campaign management fee from all donations. Credit Card processing fees are an additional 2.5% + $0.30 for all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover). You are given the option to cover the fees and if you choose this option, 100% of your online charitable gift will go to the receiving organization. All donations are final and cannot be refunded. The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation does not retain any portion of the fees assessed by Mightycause. The entirety of a donor's gift goes directly to their chosen organization, less any uncovered processing fees.
What organizations are participating in Texoma Gives?
Our goal is to have the participation of all nonprofit organizations that are located in Texoma (24-county area of North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. See nonprofit registration for counties.) The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation will verify that all participating nonprofits are 501(c)(3) public charities and are in compliance with IRS reporting requirements. All participating organizations are required to register to participate by July 31, 2024.
What if a nonprofit is not listed on the Texoma Gives website?
Nonprofits are required to register to participate by July 31, 2024. If a nonprofit does not have a profile on the Texoma Gives website, then donations cannot be made to it via www.texomagives.org. However, our effort is to make September 5, the largest giving day in Texoma and we encourage supporters to make a donation to the nonprofit via mail and encourage the nonprofit to participate in Texoma Gives next year!
What organizations are eligible to participate?
Organizations will be required to register to pariticipate on www.texomagives.org site by July 31, 2024, which includes name of organization, brief description of nonprofit, brand/logo, link to nonprofit website, and social media links.
Eligible organizations are 501(c)(3) public charities that provide substantial services to Texoma and immediate surrounding areas. For nonprofit organizations that do not have a mailing address in the Texoma area, the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation will make a case-by-case determination regarding whether or not the nonprofit provides "substantial services" and qualifies for Texoma Gives. Churches are not eligible to participate. Private schools, school foundations, and tax deductible scholarship funds can participate.
Funds raised through Texoma Gives are to be used for services in the Wichita Falls MSA/Texoma region. In most cases, an eligible organization may only have one profile on the Texoma Gives site. A nonprofit's organizational description can be generic or can indicate that funds raised through Texoma Gives will be used for one or more specific purposes that fulfill the nonprofit's exemption.
Why should a nonprofit participate?
It's a fundraising tool, and like any tool, it's as effective as you want to make it. A nonprofit can invest as little or as much time, energy, and resources in promoting the event to its supporters and potential supporters as it wants. The more the nonprofit invests, the more return it will see through Texoma Gives.
Additionally, Texoma Gives is the nonprofit's opportunity to raise awareness about its mission, reach new donors, and build online fundraising skills. Nonprofits are also eligible to receive prizes during the event. There are many reasons to participate!
Can a nonprofit win more than one incentive prize?
Yes. The cap per organization for prize dollars is $5,000.
What is a "unique donor"?
A donor is considered "unique" or a different donor based on their email address.
How can a nonprofit make the day a success?
The nonprofit registers to participate on www.texomagives.org by July 31. There will be a Nonprofit Toolkit on www.texomagives.org that will help make the day a success for the nonprofit. Engage your Board Members, your volunteers, your staff, your current donors and all supporters to spread the word on Texoma Gives and about your participation. We encourage nonprofits to set up accounts on social media to help promote the organizations throughout Texoma Gives.
Additionally, there will be free trainings that WFACF and its partners will sponsor. Creativity and energy will help make your nonprofit’s day a success!
Can nonprofits host a special event?
Yes! We encourage nonprofits to plan an event, partner with other participating nonprofits, or connect with local businesses to raise awareness about Texoma Gives. The more a nonprofit promotes their participation in Texoma Gives, the more it will benefit.
Can individual nonprofits encourage donations by giving away material items?
Material items cannot be given away in exchange for donations for Texoma Gives. Items which are perishable such as coffee, donuts or food are allowed. An electronic gift acknowledgment will be sent to each donor stating that their gift is eligible for tax deductions. Donations made through Texoma Gives may not be used to pay for anything that might be perceived as material benefit to the donor. It is each participating nonprofit organization’s responsibility to be compliant with IRS regulations for charitable deductions and will be responsible to inform its donor if they are unable to deduct their full gift amount. Failure to comply could prevent organizations from participating in Texoma Gives in future years.
When will participating nonprofit organizations receive their Texoma Gives donations?
More information coming soon!
What if the amount the nonprofit expected, based on the initial Texoma Gives results, does not match the final disbursement?
All nonprofits will be able to see their donations real-time (via their admin dashboard). A report of the donations is available to be downloaded at any time. Nonprofits will need to verify the donation amounts (less any processing fees) and dates of donations. For any discrepancies, please contact lpetersen@wfacf.org.
Will the nonprofit send tax deduction letters?
No. The donor will immediately receive an email confirming the gift receipt from Texoma Gives during the event. But, the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation does encourage nonprofits to acknowledge donations by following up with donors and sharing how their contribution helps to fulfill their mission.
Will nonprofit organizations receive donor information for acknowledgements?
Yes. Through the nonprofit's admin dashboard, the nonprofit will be able to access with the contact information of all donors to their organization and the amount donated unless the donor asks to remain anonymous.
What is state charitable solicitation registration?
Nonprofits are held to a high standard of government regulation and public scrutiny. And that is with good reason! Eligible 501(c) nonprofits are exempt from federal corporate taxes and have access to public funding. These benefits are not typically available to for-profit businesses, so laws are in place to protect the public and ensure nonprofits do not abuse their financial advantages. The IRS and states all have requirements for nonprofits.
Why is state charitable solicitation registration compliance important?
While 501(c) nonprofits receive key financial benefits, the penalties for noncompliance can be serious. The IRS can revoke a nonprofit’s tax exemption and impose fines that can accrue daily. The states can administratively dissolve a nonprofit corporation and levy steep financial penalties. Perhaps worst of all, an organization can lose out on a grant or large donation because it has not kept itself in good standing.
Taking a proactive approach to compliance helps ensure the sustained success of the organization. The cost of staying compliant is small in comparison to the much larger costs of noncompliance. The saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” could not be more true in this context.
What are the key aspects of state charitable solicitation registration compliance?
The IRS provides tax exemptions to eligible nonprofits under IRC 501(c). Public charities and private foundations receive 501(c)(3) tax exemption. The IRS scrutinizes organizations when they apply for 501(c)(3) but also ensures that those organizations meet the ongoing obligations to remain eligible. Nonprofits must file a 990 tax form each year with the IRS to disclose their financial data for the year.
Each state has their own set of requirements. Nonprofits are typically incorporated in a given state as a nonprofit corporation. The state in which the nonprofit has incorporated will impose requirements on the nonprofit, and those responsibilities typically span across multiple state agencies. Usually nonprofits must submit an annual filing to the corporations division of the secretary of state, maintain its license to fundraise (charitable solicitation registration), file for a state business license, and maintain state-level tax exemption with the revenue department. As nonprofits expand outside of the state or operate nationwide, they must comply with the same items in each other state as well.
In addition to IRS and state filing requirements, nonprofits must keep adequate records. Keeping accurate and complete records is critical in the event that an organization is audited. It is also common that board members or donors request information from the organization. Finally, records are necessary for submitting applications and renewal filings with various government agencies.
When I check the box on Mightycause to declare state charitable solicitation registration compliance, what am I attesting to?
When you check the box you are attesting (defined as "declaring that something exists or is the case") that your organization is compliant with applicable state fundraising requirements in the states in which you may solicit donors using the Mightycause platform.
Do you have additional resources to reference about state charitable solicitation registration?
Yes! Here are a few more resources from Harbor Compliance to help you: