Frequently Asked Questions
As you begin to plan your CommUNITY Fundraiser, chances are you'll have a lot of questions. In order to make the process a bit easier, we've answered some of our more commonly asked questions below.
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Why is my event called a CommUNITY Fundraiser?
This is YOUR event, to do things your way, using your ideas and allowing you to add your own special touch to raise critical funds within your community for melanoma research, education and advocacy. When you promote your event, the name should be "[Your Event Name]," benefiting the Melanoma Research Foundation." This reaffirms that your work is going towards the MRF's mission.
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Can I use "Miles for Melanoma" in the name of my event?
No, the Miles for Melanoma program is exclusively reserved for the MRF's signature 5k series.
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Can my fundraiser use the MRF's logo?
Yes, if 100% of your proceeds benefit the MRF. If any portion of the funds raised is used to reimburse event costs or to support another organization, the logo may only be used alongside the phrase "A portion of the proceeds benefit the Melanoma Research Foundation." Please see our logo usage guidelines.
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Can I use the MRF's name or will the MRF sign off on contracts, permits or accounts for my event?
No, the MRF will not sign off on individual CommUNITY Fundraiser's event contracts or permits. Any event permits that have the MRF listed are at risk of having their permits and event withdrawn. It is required that you obtain your own permits and insurance without using the MRF's name or tax ID.
Please note that you cannot open any monetary accounts under the MRF's name or using the MRF's tax identification number.
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Will the MRF pay for the expenses of my fundraising event?
No, the MRF will not pay for or reimburse expenses incurred in the planning process of your event. You may, however, reimburse yourself with funds raised during the event. these funds are not tax-deductible. Please note, once funds are donated to the MRF they cannot be used for reimbursement of expenses.
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Are donations made to my fundraising event tax-deductible?
The MRF is a 501(c)3 organization. Any contribution made directly to the MRF is tax-deductible under Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code. This means that any direct donations (check or credit card) to the MRF is tax-deductible. Any checks made out to an individual or independent organization will not be eligible under the Internal Revenue Code.
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Where does the money go?
To support medical RESEARCH for finding effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma. To EDUCATE patients and physicians about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of melanoma. To act as an ADVOCATE for the melanoma community to raise awareness of this disease and the need for a cure.
The MRF strives to meet its donors wishes and allocate funds per their wishes. If there is a particular area within the MRF you would like your funds to be designated to, please email events@melanoma.org
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Can I have alcohol at my event?
Alcohol is highly discouraged at an event unless it is believed to be important to the success of the event. We strongly recommend that if your event includes alcohol, limit the number of drinks each participant gets for “free” by providing drink tickets, or hire a licensed bartender to consider a participant’s level of consumption and age. The MRF's name or insurance cannot be used for any permits needed to provide alcohol at your event.
