Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQ
What kind of nonprofit is the Fund?
The Fund is a 501(c)(3) public charity.
How is REI Cooperative Action Fund different from REI Co-op?
REI Co-op founded the Fund to advance the notion that time outside is a human right and to address the fact that the right is not equitably enjoyed across the country. REI Co-op will continue to support the operations and grantmaking of the Fund through cash and in-kind support. The REI Cooperative Action Fund is a separate legal entity from REI Co-op.
Does REI Co-op contribute any money to the Fund?
Yes. REI Co-op supports general operations of the Fund, as well as grantmaking. Thanks to the generosity of REI Co-op, 100% of donations from the general public* are invested in organizations promoting justice, equity and belonging in the outdoors to strengthen the health and well-being of people and communities. (*excluding credit card transaction fees)
What is the REI Cooperative Action Fund and where does its money come from?
The REI Cooperative Action Fund is a community-supported public charity that directly supports organizations promoting justice, equity and belonging in the outdoors to strengthen the health and well-being of people and communities. REI Co-op is supporting the Fund’s start-up expenses, general operations and some grantmaking. 100% of donations from the general public* (REI members, customers and employees, businesses and other donors) are invested in grantees. (*excluding credit card transaction fees)
Can non-REI members donate to the Fund?
Yes. Anyone may donate to the Fund.
Are the Funds’ community advisors compensated for their time and expertise?
Yes, the Fund compensates community advisors for their valuable time and expertise.
How are community advisors selected and what specifically will they do?
Community advisors are selected using a broad array of criteria including leadership in building a more accessible and inclusive outdoor culture. Community advisors provide input on some of the Fund's grantmaking priorities and grantee selection.
Will REI Co-op continue their corporate grant program? Will the Fund take its place?
REI Co-op will continue to invest in nonprofits around the country through their grant programs. To learn more, visit the REI Impact Report.
Donation FAQ
Will my donation cover operations of REI Cooperative Action Fund or go directly to grantees?
Thanks to the generosity of REI Co-op, 100% of donations from the general public* are donated to organizations promoting justice, equity and belonging in the outdoors to strengthen the health and well-being of people and communities. (*excluding credit card transaction fees for gifts made on our website)
Is my donation tax deductible?
REI Cooperative Action Fund is a 501(c)(3) public charity. Donations are tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. If you have questions about deductibility, consult a tax advisor.
What is the Tax ID number of the Fund?
85-4299419
Will I receive a charitable receipt for tax purposes?
When donating on REIfund.org, you will automatically be e-mailed an acknowledgment of your donation.
How can I make changes to my contact information, update my recurring donation or see donation confirmation?
Donors may log into our self-service portal to make changes to their recurring donation at any time. Click here for access.
Can I donate by mailing a check?
Yes, please mail checks to the REI Cooperative Action Fund, Dept. LA #22039 Pasadena, CA 91185-2039. If you would like to receive a donation confirmation, please send your name, mailing address and/or email address along with the check.
Do you accept gifts of stocks? Gifts from donor advised funds? Estate contributions?
Yes. Please contact info@REIfund.org with any questions.
Can I donate my REI member dividend or member reward?
Donating REI member dividend or member rewards to the REI Cooperative Action Fund is not an option at this time.
Grantmaking FAQ
I know of an organization doing great work that aligns with the mission of the Fund. How can I recommend them for a grant?
You can share nonprofits that align with the Fund’s mission and grantmaking initiatives through the “recommend a potential grantee” form here. (Note: This form is not an application. The Fund is unable to guarantee a response or funding for all organizations submitted.)
How does the Fund identify potential grantees?
Potential grantees are identified through our growing network that includes Fund staff and community advisors, nonprofits, REI field teams, other funders and recommendations from the co-op community through our “recommend a potential grantee” form here. (Note: This form is not an application. The Fund is unable to guarantee a response or funding for all organizations submitted.)
Who is eligible for funding?
Eligibility for funding requires the following:
1. Grantees must be aligned with one of our three grantmaking initiatives. 2. Grantees must have a current 501(c)(3) public charity status or have a fiscal sponsor that has a current 501(c)(3) public charity status. 3. Grantees must be based in the U.S, and serve U.S. communities. 4. The REI Cooperative Action Fund gives grants to organizations with a commitment to justice, equity and belonging. All grantees must have a demonstrated commitment to this as shown in a diversity, equity and inclusion plan or something similar. 5. Grantees must have an nondiscrimination policy.
The Fund does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, preschool -12th-grade schools, or endowment campaigns. Not all eligible organizations will receive funding.
How does my organization become a grantee?
Currently, the Fund invites organizations to apply for funding. To be considered, please submit your organization information through our “recommend a potential grantee” form here. (Note: The Fund is unable to guarantee consideration or funding for all organizations submitted.)
Does the Fund support general operations of its grantees?
Yes.
How are grantmaking decisions made?
The Fund carefully considers a number of factors when determining grantees, such as alignment with the Fund’s grantmaking initiatives, mission, geographic locations, organizational leadership, and more. Grantmaking decisions are informed in part by Fund staff and community advisors, as well as REI field teams, other funders and nonprofits. Ultimately, all grantmaking decisions are approved by the Fund’s board of directors.
When does the Fund distribute grants?
The Fund has two grantmaking cycles annually: spring and fall.
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