Frequently Asked Questions:

http://ca4h.org/4hresource/handbook/Documents/FAQgames_of_chance[april17].doc (4/17/03)

What is a raffle?

Answer: A raffle is an activity that requires no skill in order to win a prize. Prizes are awarded through the purchase of chances.

Q. Can 4-H youth, volunteers, clubs/units or Councils/VMO's conduct raffles?

Answer: No. 4-H participants cannot conduct raffles.

Proposition 17 sets forth rules that govern lotteries and charitable raffles in California. It states that private non-profit organizations can use these methods of fundraising. Private non-profits are groups like the Girl Scouts, Campfire USA, Girls' Inc, or Boy Scouts.

Public non-profit agencies, such as the University of California 4-H YDP, are not legally permitted to conduct lotteries, raffles, bingo or other games of chance (4-H YDP Policy Handbook Section 703.2B 3b). The 4-H YDP receives funds from both state and federal sources and is a public non-profit.

Q. Can 4-H members sell raffle tickets as a fundraiser for their club or for other organizations?

Answer: No. 4-H Members cannot sell raffle tickets to fundraise for their club or for other organizations.

Additionally, all fundraising activities are to be reviewed by county office 4H YDP staff or the County Director. These activities should further the educational and research goals of the 4-H Youth Development Program.

Q. If another organization runs a raffle and donates the money to a 4-H club, can the 4-H club accept these funds?

Answer: Yes. A 4-H YDP club can accept funds raised by another organization through a raffle if they are to be used to further the educational mission of the 4-H Youth Development Program. However, the use of the 4-H emblem and clover are protected under the law and cannot be used to promote raffles (section 703.2B 1; 703.2B 3a,b).

Q. Can raffles occur at 4-H sponsored events?

Answer: No. Raffles cannot take place during 4-H sponsored events; it implies an endorsement of activities that are against our policies.

Q. What is the difference between a raffle and a drawing?

Answer: In a drawing everyone has an equal chance to win a prize and there is usually no money involved to be included in the drawing. A raffle is a lottery where an individual's chances of winning are increased by the number of chances that they purchase.

Q. Can a 4-H event offer door prizes?

Answer: Yes. If everyone is given an equal chance then this activity is considered a door prize or drawing. There should be no purchase required to participate in the door prize.