FAQ
What is the Ripple Effect?
The Ripple Effect is Water For People’s fundraising program to enable our community of supporters to partner with us in our efforts to end the global water and sanitation crisis. Everyone is welcome to participate.
Are there other ways to support Water For People?
Yes! If you don’t want to start or support a fundraiser, there are many ways to help us turn the tide of the world’s water crisis. You can make a donation or visit the Get Involved section of our website for more options. One-time and recurring donations can be made by credit card or by mailing a check to Water For People, 7100 E. Belleview Ave, Suite 310 Greenwood Village, CO 80111.
Are there any guidelines?
Water For People is not responsible for any harm to you or others while fundraising. Water For People cannot sign any permits or licenses on behalf of your fundraiser. The Ripple Effect can only be used to raise money for Water For People. Water For People believes in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion for all people. We reserve the right to remove any fundraiser that does not follow these guidelines.
Additionally, please do not use any photos or videos that show people, especially children, inappropriately. Images must be respectful, the children adequately clothed, and sexually suggestive poses avoided. At all times, Water For People will put the interests of children first in accordance with our child protection policy. Any depiction of children must protect their identity, preserve their dignity, and be accurate.
Can I raise money at any time during the year?
Yes, you can! You can tie your event into a special time of year for you (birthday, anniversary) or whenever you’d like!
Can a Water For People representative attend my event?
Water For People is based in Denver, Colorado, and it is unlikely we can attend events in other locations in-person. However, we will consider each request that comes in with information about the purpose of the event, time, date, and event location at rippleeffect@waterforpeople.org.
Can I share my efforts?
Absolutely! We encourage each individual to share their fundraising efforts online via social media, emails, and more! There are suggested emails in the Participant Center once you’ve created an account. Also in the Participant Center, you can link your fundraiser to your Facebook account. You will need your Facebook log-in information and follow the simple steps to link.
Where does my money go?
Your money supports Water For People’s work to end the global water and sanitation crisis. You can read more about our efforts to provide water and sanitation to Everyone Forever.
Can I choose a specific country or program to support?
Unfortunately, no. Your fundraising campaign will be used to support the area of greatest need. This flexible funding also enables Water For People to nimbly respond to unexpected challenges. Water For People affirms our commitment to use your donation responsibly. Charity Navigator has rated Water For People a top charity for 17 consecutive years.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Donations to Water For People are tax deductible to the full extent of the law in the United States. Water For People is recognized by the IRS as a not for profit 501c3 charitable organization. If you are donating from another country, please check with your country's tax donation regulations.
Do donors receive a tax receipt?
Yes. A receipt will display once the transaction is complete and donors are emailed a receipt.
Do you accept corporate matching gifts?
Yes. To find out if your employee matches employee gifts, input your employer into the Double the Donation search. If your employer is listed, follow the steps to request a match. If they are not, check with your Human Resources department to see if matching is available.
Can I mail checks to be applied to my fundraising page?
Yes. Please mail checks to:
Water For People
Attn: Ripple Effect Fundraiser
7100 E. Belleview Ave Suite 310
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Please make sure your name and/or event name is included with the check so we can apply the donation towards your goal.
If I want to use a Water For People logo, do I need to get permission?
No, but we ask that you do not alter the logo in any way. You can resize the logo, but please keep the dimensions. You can access logos here.
Can I volunteer with Water For People?
In addition to fundraising through The Ripple Effect, there are options for volunteering including Committees and the World Water Corps. Visit this page to learn more.
I want to start a new fundraiser, but am receiving an error message. Help!
You can only have one fundraiser active at a time. If your first event has concluded and you’re unable to start a new one, please reach out to us at rippleeffect@waterforpeople.org.
What steps should I take to maximize donations to my event?
Go first: Make a donation to your fundraising page. Others are more inclined to give when they see that you have made a commitment to the cause.
Get personal: Add a photo and share your story on why you are raising funds for Water For People. By telling your story, your friends and family will feel more connected to the cause. If you have a personal story, tell it.
Be specific: Tell your donors exactly what you need. Would you like them to donate $20? Ask for $20. Don’t be afraid to set goals!
Send emails: Use the tools to send emails to your network of contacts, telling them why you are raising funds for our organization and make the “ask” for donations.
Get social: Did you know that fundraisers raise 40% more by using social media? Let all of your friends and followers know that you are raising money, and share why the cause is important to you. Copy the link to your page and share on your social channels and encourage others to do the same! On the Participant Center, you can link your fundraiser to your Facebook account. You will need your Facebook log-in information and follow the simple steps to link.
Follow up: Did you know that it takes on average 3 asks to result in one gift? Once you have received a donation, don’t forget to thank your donor. They will automatically receive a gift acknowledgement receipt but we make it easy to personally reach out and thank your network from your participant center.
Who should I contact if I need more information?
If your question wasn’t answered in the FAQs, check out the Resources page for additional information. You can also contact us by emailing rippleeffect@waterforpeople.org.
