United For Aid Fundraiser FAQ
Have we cancelled the annual club-wide raffle?
Yes. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we do not want you or your children handling tickets, checks, cash, or going door-to-door. Instead, we are rolling out a ‘peer to peer’ (P2P) fundraising campaign called “United for Aid” that we can all do from the comfort and safety of home.
Why is money being raised?
United for Aid is a P2P fundraiser that supports our financial aid fund; in fact, all net proceeds go directly to providing financial support to players who have select soccer skills but lack the financial resources to pay to play. Without this fundraiser, we would not be able to provide the level of aid that we do. In the club’s 11-year history, we have never turned down aid to any qualified applicant. We can keep that amazing streak going with your support!
When is it?
United for Aid runs from November 16, 2020 to December 13, 2020.
How does it work?
All players/parents will get an email with a link to access a team fundraising page that will track fundraising efforts. Our P2P website will also include a list of prizes and incentives for our players, as well a current list of leading teams. Fundraisers will be able to send out pre-drafted messages that can easily be forwarded to families, friends, and others, and can also share this important club fundraiser on social media.
Are there incentives for fundraisers?
Yes! There will be opportunity for all players to earn club-branded gear and soccer.com gift cards for their efforts:
● An SU-branded mask to first 500 players who raise $50.
● An SU-branded beanie to first 500 players who raise $150
● All players who raise $1,000 or more will receive a $150 Soccer.com gift card.
Are there fundraising prizes?
Yes, fundraisers can become eligible to win:
● Free 2021/22 program fees (top two girls’ and top two boys’ fundraisers).
● Free 2021/22 program fees for fundraiser with the highest number of donors.
● Drawing for four, $500 Apple gift cards.
● Drawing for a RAD Power bike.
● Team Prizes include:
o Top two boys and top two girls fundraising teams will each win $1,000 from the club; use it for team travel, social event, etc!
o The team, boys or girls, that raises the most money will have a chance to play a match against the SU staff coaches & directors.
How do donors actually make their donation?
Ideally, all donations are made electronically. Your donors will be able to make their contribution online, from your team page or the fundraiser home page. All donors will be able to select a player’s name before making their donation to ensure that the correct player receives credit for their donation.
How quickly can I expect an online donation to post to my page?
Any donation made online should post immediately. If your donation does not post within 5 minutes, please contact Julie Irwin at julie@seattleunited.com.
What if a donor prefers to write a check?
Donations to United for Aid should be made electronically via your fundraising page. However, some donors may prefer to write a check. Check donations should be mailed directly to the club at:
Seattle United
650 S. Orcas St. #220
Seattle, WA 98108
Attn United for Aid, Julie Irwin
Check donations will be posted to any player’s total in the software once received by the club.
Can I mail in a cash donation?
We cannot accept cash donations.
Can I make a donation to a team?
No, you need to choose a player on a team, or donors can simply donate to the club.
How do I find a participant’s team fundraising webpage?
Click on the home page and begin typing the first or last name. Your options will display as you type. Players under 13 cannot have personal pages.
What happens if I check the checkbox to “cover processing fees”?
If you check this box, you will be charged the amount indicated. This amount will also be visible to the non-profit. However, on the fundraising page, your intended - initial donation amount will be displayed.
Are donations tax-deductible?
All monetary donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Do all donors who mail their donations receive a receipt?
Any donor who mailed their donation and provided an address will receive a receipt via mail once the donation has been processed. If you made your donation in installments, you will receive a receipt each time a monthly payment is processed.
Do all donors who contribute online receive a receipt?
Yes, anyone who donates online, regardless of the amount, will receive a receipt via email.
What is the Seattle United Tax ID number?
A Tax ID number identifies Seattle United FC as a 501(c)(3) non-profit Organization. The Seattle United FC Tax ID number is 27-0780019.
How do I add dedication when I make a donation?
When you make a donation online, you can designate what you want to appear as your recognition name on the participant's Honor Roll. This may be your name, or it could be something such as "From the whole Wolf family" or "in memory of Aunt Cathy."
Is there a deadline for fundraising?
All donations on your behalf that are received by December 13, 2020 will be credited to your fundraising total.
When will I receive my fundraising incentives?
Your fundraising incentives are calculated based on the total fundraising dollars you have collected. Incentives will be distributed to all players by January 31st.
Why aren’t the player leaderboards on the website?
Players under 13 are not all allowed to have their own fundraising pages, so the platform is unable to post the top individual fundraisers. The club will send updates every Monday.