Monday, July 13, 2009

Watching the mail...

Waiting for the 501(c)(3) determination letter is kind of like waiting for decisions regarding one's college applications.  Though it seems to take forever, it will likely be all right in the end.  Except there's always that one case - the kid who didn't get in anywhere - that makes you nervous.  Reach, Inc. applied for tax-exempt status on June 15th.  If the application is done to the IRS' liking, then we could hear as soon as mid-August.  If not, the wait gets even worse.  We're hopeful that our lawyers at Skadden Arps gave the IRS what they wanted.

Once we receive tax-exempt status, then things can really begin to move.  We can begin accepting online donations, through PayPal.  Though they do take a cut, it will still likely lead some people to donate that wouldn't otherwise.  Additionally, we'll be able to start developing partnerships with organizations that do work with non-profits, such as Whole Foods.  As I've mentioned before, individual contributions are deductible retroactively once 501(c)(3) status is granted, so don't let our continued wait stop you from making a personal donation.  Also, tax-exempt status makes us eligible for grant funding.  I've already started doing research about foundation fundraising at The Foundation Center, an amazing resource with a location in Washington DC.  While the wait seems long at times, we're planning and researching now so we'll be ready when the letter arrives.

How you can help:
  • We have 236 fans on our facebook fan page.  Let's get to 300 this week!  One of the options on the left side says, "suggest Reach, Inc. to friends."  Click on that and suggest our page to those that might be interested.
  • Additionally, Reach, Inc. has now been posted on Ideablob.  This is a site that gives away money to entrepreneurs.  While I'm new to the site, and don't know our chances, I do know that people read about and comment on ideas.  Feel free to register and vote for Reach, Inc.  The more votes we get, the more likely it is that people will see us and provide good feedback!
Still climbing towards $10,000, have you donated?
Mark

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