How one group helps fundraisers

One service that would-be fundraisers might turn to is the North Dakota Association for the Disabled’s Community Fundraiser Program. It helps those organizing benefits for people with serious health issues or disabilities.

Based in Grand Forks, the nonprofit group has offices in Fargo, Minot and Williston.

Here’s how it works:

* NDAD serves as a third-party custodian of funds raised. Because the group is a nonprofit, all donations are tax deductible. Because it holds the funds, the funds do not count as income to beneficiaries, which means they enjoy tax savings and can still qualify for income-based aid.

* NDAD will offer help in organizing fundraisers, including making posters and other publicity material.

* NDAD charges nothing for the service and 100 percent of funds raise go to beneficiaries.

* Fundraiser organizers are largely in control. Funds are disbursed only for needs identified by organizers, under NDAD’s direction. Organizers approve payment from the funds, not NDAD employees.

* Bills for expenses of the beneficiary are submitted to NDAD, which usually makes direct payments to service providers, such as doctors or stores.

* Eligible expenses typically include medical costs and related expenses, though they can also include basic living expenses, such as food, housing and health insurance. NDAD does not allow funds to be spent on alcohol, tobacco, pet supplies, expensive clothing, jewelry and other non-essential items.

Info: NDAD, 660 S. Columbia Road, Grand Forks ND 58201; 701-775-5577; www.ndad.org.

— Forum News Service

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