Below are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding your contribution to Advocates for Youth. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, tax, or investment advice. 

How much money does Advocates spend on program services vs. fundraising and management?
Advocates is committed to keeping administrative costs as low as possible. In 2010, Advocates spent 79% on programs, 14% on general and administrative expenses, and 7% on fundraising. 

Is my contribution tax deductible?  Is Advocates a 501(c) 3 organization?
Advocates for Youth is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and therefore all donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by federal law.  

Can I restrict my contribution to a particular project or program?
Unrestricted contributions allow Advocates to respond to timely issues when and where the need is greatest; however, Advocates accepts restricted contributions for particular projects or programs.  Individuals wishing to earmark their gift should speak with development staff prior to making their donation to ensure that charitable expectations can be met.  If we receive a gift and are unable to fulfill your wishes, we will contact you to discuss how best to proceed.  For more information, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Elizabeth Merck, Manager of Individual Giving, at (202) 419-3420 Ext. 24.

Can I make a contribution in honor or in memory of someone?  Can I honor or memorialize more than one individual with one gift? Is there a minimum gift amount required?  
Advocates allows donors to honor or memorialize individuals or groups with a gift in any amount.  There is no limit to the number of people you can pay tribute to with one gift.  

How do I set up a recurring monthly donation?  How do I cancel my monthly donation?
You can set up a recurring monthly donation online, by phone, or by mail.  To cancel your donation at any time, please This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Elizabeth Merck, Manager of Individual Giving, at (202) 419-3420 Ext. 24.

I want to remember Advocates for Youth in my estate plans.  Will the organization accept my bequest?
Advocates for Youth accepts charitable bequests to support its general operations as well as particular projects or programs.  Individuals who would like to restrict their gift are encouraged to contact Advocates prior to finalizing their will to ensure that the organization can carry out the terms of the bequest. See Sample Bequest Language.

Can I hold a fundraiser for Advocates for Youth?
Yes.  You can help raise money for Advocates for Youth by hosting a variety of activities to benefit the organization such as a party, car wash, bake sale, yard sale, concert, auction, dance-a-thon, sporting event, blue jeans day, or class project.  Advocates can provide brochures and fact sheets, donation forms, the Advocates logo, and possibly promotion. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Elizabeth Merck, Manager of Individual Giving, at (202) 419-3420 x24 for more information.    

How long will it take for me to receive a receipt for my gift? How long will it take for my memorial or tribute gift to be acknowledged?
Advocates makes every attempt to process and recognize gifts within three days of receipt.  This includes memorial and tribute gifts and acknowledgements. Donors will receive a formal thank you letter by mail, which can serve as a receipt for tax purposes. If you do not receive a letter, or if you need a copy of your letter for tax purposes, please This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Elizabeth Merck, Manager of Individual Giving, at (202) 419-3420 x24.

Will Advocates accept a matching gift from my employer?
Yes. Please forward us your employer’s matching gift form along with your contribution.  We will notify you when we have received the matching gift.

How can I make a gift of stock?
Advocates welcomes gifts of stock.  To donate securities, contact your custodian/brokerage firm and request that “x” number of shares be transferred from your account.  You will need the following information:

SunTrust Investment Services, Inc.
Beneficiary: Advocates for Youth
Beneficiary Account #: DFL-140252
DTC #: 0226

Please notify Advocates of your gift (name of stock and number of shares) prior to the transfer.

How can I remove myself from your mailing list?
Please send an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Where can I get a copy of Advocates’ audited financial statements or IRS Form 990?

You can request a copy of Advocates’ audited financial statements by contacting our office at (202) 419-3420 or by writing to Advocates for Youth, Attn: Development Department, 2000 M Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20036. A copy of our most recently filed IRS Form 990 can be accessed via Guidestar or by clicking here.