1. Overview
Ripples from the Well occasionally conducts raffles and giveaways, both directly, or in partnership with third party partners, to raise funds in support of our charitable programs. These events help us engage our community and provide vital resources to our mission. By participating in any raffle or giveaway hosted by, or in partnership with Ripples from the Well, you are acknowledging and agreeing to the terms outlined in this policy.
2. Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in our raffles:
- You must be 18 years or older.
- Employees, board members, and immediate family members of Ripples from the Well, Reliant Mission, or any Third-Party Partner Host are not eligible to participate or win.
- Raffles are only open to residents of jurisdictions where such activities are legally permitted.
3. Entry Methods
- Donation-Based Entry: Each $10 donation grants one (1) raffle ticket, unless otherwise specified.
- Free Entry Option: No purchase or donation is necessary to enter. To enter the raffle without making a donation, individuals may write a short, fully original, essay (500 words or more) on the topic:
“What is one common mistake Westerners make when trying to help in developing countries?” - Essays must be typed, original, and submitted by mail to:
Ripples from the Well, 1125 E 4th Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67501 - Include your full name, mailing address, phone number, and the currently live raffle you wish to enter.
- Limit: One completed entry per person. Entries must be received in office (not postmarked) by the deadline of the raffle they wish to enter. Completion of the essay qualifies for entry. Content quality will not affect eligibility.
This free entry method ensures compliance with sweepstakes and raffle regulations in applicable jurisdictions.
4. Raffle Rules & Ticket Allocation
- Donors may allocate their tickets to the prize or raffle of their choice by specifying their preference at the time of donation.
- For example on prizes, a $50 donation = 5 tickets toward one prize.
- Online donors must include their ticket allocation (or opt out) in the “notes” section of the donation form.
5. Tax Deductibility & Prize Reporting
Raffle Donations Are Not Deductible:
Donations that result in raffle tickets are not tax-deductible under IRS guidelines, as participants receive a chance to win a prize (considered something of value).
To make a fully tax-deductible gift, donors must opt out of raffle participation by writing “No Tickets” in the donation notes or informing us in person.
IRS Prize Reporting (Form W-2G):
If:
- The value of a prize is at least 300 times the amount of the ticket (the wager), and
- The Fair Market Value is $600 or more,
We are required to issue the winner an IRS Form W-2G.
Mandatory Tax Withholding:
If the value of a prize exceeds $5,000, the IRS requires 24% federal withholding before the prize can be distributed. Winners may be asked to complete a Form W-9 and provide valid identification.
6. Prize Conditions
- All prizes are awarded as-is, with no warranties or guarantees beyond those offered by the manufacturer (if applicable).
- Winners are responsible for any applicable federal, state, or local taxes.
7. Limitation of Liability
Ripples from the Well is not liable for any technical errors, lost entries, or disruptions that affect the fairness or administration of the raffle. Participation is voluntary, and all decisions made by Ripples from the Well regarding raffle administration are final.
8. Policy Updates
We may revise this policy at any time. Updates will be posted to our website. Continued participation in any raffle or giveaway indicates your agreement with the most current version.
