Fundraising FAQ's

Dear runners, walkers & potential adoptive families,

We have had a terrific response for this ZOOMA Race and many who've indicated they intend to join our Charity Team to raise funds for prospective, adoptive families in the New Braunfels area. I understand that there are a number of questions as to how this will work. Please be patient with me, as we are creating this process for the first time (hallelujah!), as we go. G.R.A.C.E. Adoption Ministry and I are working hard to put this together. I will attempt here to answer some basic questions.

How do I raise funds?
Each Team member will share a contribution letter (provided by us) with friends, families, and businesses. This letter may be customized to share your heart for why you've chosen to be a part of this great cause (running for an adoptive family, running to bring a child home, have an adopted sibling, etc.) or you may use our standard version. You can email this letter or send through US Postal Service.

Who do we make the checks to?
River Stone Community Church. Memo line should read: ZOOMA-"your name" River Stone is a partner of G.R.A.C.E. Adoption Ministry and is serving as an umbrella for our Charity Team. All monies will go towards adoptive families. All contributions will be tax deductible. There will soon be a link at http://www.river-stone.org/ where sponsors may contribute online if they prefer to use a debit or credit card.

How do I collect?
Please use a large manila envelope to collect personal or cashier checks; no cash accepted. If you need a manila envelope, please let me know at jenclord@yahoo.com.

When do we turn the money in?
We will collect all donations from Team members the first week of April at a time & place to be announced in the future.

How is the money distributed?
G.R.A.C.E. is in the process of creating an overseer's board who will direct allocation based upon applicant's needs, finances, family size, etc. The process is similar to that of other grant organizations, such as Shaohanna's Hope, where prospective adoptive families apply for financial assistance. Funding priority will be given, but not limited to, families presenting the greatest need. However, if you are an approved applicant and Team participant, all monies you personally raise will go towards your adoption.

What is the application process?
Please contact Becca Hill at beccarhill@msn.com if you would like to receive an application or with any questions you may have. Applications will be available by January 23, 2009. Applicants must participate in the ZOOMA Race on this Charity Team to be considered for funding. Once you have submitted your application, along with required documentation, your packet will be reviewed by the board to determine approval. Funds will only be directed towards tangible adoption costs.