Variety is HOPE FAQ
Q: What is Variety is HOPE?
A: We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of humanitarian and goodwill causes through online fundraising events! For more info, visit our About Us page.
Q: So… you're an actual charity?
A: Yes! Since our incorporation in June 2019, we are officially a public charity that can receive monetary support. It's important to note that, as of October 26, 2019, our 501(c)3 status is currently "pending".
Q: What does having a "pending" status with the IRS mean?
A: Basically, it means that Variety is HOPE is able to accept donations and treat itself as a 501(c)3 organization, but that contributors do not have advance assurance that their donations are tax-deductible. When you donate to us, your acknowledgment letter will have a footer line in it that reflects our pending status, and once our application is approved, you will be notified and your contribution will be considered retroactively tax-deductible. This application process can take several months, so please be patient; we will contact you once we have more information.
Q: I live outside of the United States. Would my donation be considered tax-deductible?
A: It depends. The tax laws for individual countries can vary dramatically, and we do recommend that you consult a tax professional and/or do your own research as to whether donations you make to US nonprofits would be tax-deductible for you. Here is one source from a law blog that goes into more detail on the subject.
Q: What does my money go to when I support Variety is HOPE?
A: Your support means so much to us, and we want to be transparent about how we apply that support:
• All funds raised during our 2019 “Heckraiser” event will be going to fund (1) the initial administrative costs of establishing Variety is HOPE, and (2) the growth of "Vinesauce is HOPE" and other future events/appearances in 2020.
• All bits received during the long-promised Link to the Past Randomizer race with Crowd Control between Vinny and Hootey will be supporting the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation.
As we develop our future events and schedule, we'll be sure to keep everyone updated through our official Twitter account and our Facebook!
Q: Can you elaborate on what "administrative costs" you're looking at?
A: Sure! Our costs include our payment processing platform (how donors can contribute directly to Variety is HOPE), accounting services that helped us with incorporation and tax documents, insurance and legal fees, and web/software licensing.
Q: What are some ways that I can donate/support Variety is HOPE?
A: Thank you so much for your interest! You can click here or on the Donate link at the top of the page to directly support Variety is HOPE. You can also support our cause by tipping Bits or subscribing to our Twitch channel. Unless otherwise specified, all monies received from Twitch will be treated as unrestricted funds that go to support Variety is HOPE.
Q: Is supporting Variety is HOPE through your website any different from supporting on Twitch with subs/bits/etc.?
A: Ultimately, yes. Twitch subscriptions and Bits are not tax-deductible, as Twitch also receives payment from this level of support. However, if this is how you feel comfortable supporting us, please do so! We appreciate any help in furthering our cause.
Q: Wouldn't it have been easier and/or cheaper to not incorporate as a nonprofit?
A: That is one way to look at it, but after witnessing 6 years of incredible support from the Vinesauce community and beyond, we saw an opportunity to create a lasting legacy that could thrive for years to come. We want our mission of HOPE to resonate with our viewers in many ways, and to create memorable fundraising events that help to make the world a better place for everyone.
Q: What happened to "Vinesauce is HOPE"? Is that event going away?
A: Not at all. "Vinesauce is HOPE" is simply the name of our flagship event, held annually in July since 2014, that works to support the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. We are the same team that works tirelessly to bring you "Vinesauce is HOPE" each year, and for many more to come.
Q: I really enjoyed "Vinesauce is HOPE". Are you still going to be hosting it?
A: Absolutely. You can expect it to return in July 2020, where we will continue to raise money for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. Read more about our goal-smashing successes on our Events page, and be sure to follow the event’s Twitter account for the latest updates.
Q: Where can I get more information about upcoming events?
A: Check out our Events page with information on our past, present and future events!
Q: Does the channel only go live for pre-planned events?
A: No, we plan to have a schedule of continuous content soon that will showcase our supporting Twitch Affiliates and Partners. Stay tuned to our Twitter for more info!
Q: I want to get involved with Variety is HOPE. How can I help?
A: Thank you for your interest! If you wish to apply to be a volunteer for one of our events, we are planning to have an open application period for "Vinesauce is HOPE" 2020 sometime in November.
If you are a content creator that loves the idea of fundraising for amazing charitable causes, send us an email at contact@varietyishope.org.
You can find more information about volunteering with us on our Volunteer page, and as always, follow us on Twitter for updates!
Q: I have a question that wasn't answered here. Can I contact you about it?
A: Yes! Please visit our Contact page for more information. You can always email any questions or comments you have to contact@varietyishope.org.