What Can Booster Clubs Pay For?

by Jim Connelly, founder of BoosterSpark

Booster clubs are typically formed by parents, alumni, and supporters of a school, sports team, or other organizations to raise funds and provide support for specific activities or programs.

If the club is registered as a 501(c)(3) organization, the club can not raise money to pay individual beneficiaries (such as direct payments to students, coaches, etc); the funds they raise must benefit many (such as a school's population or a team or a department). By paying the school/team/department, not only will the club comply with the 501(c)(3) legal requirement, they will also avoid any liability that arises from paying the vendor directly.

The specific rules and regulations governing booster clubs can vary depending on the organization's structure, location, and purpose. However, there are common expenses that booster clubs may typically pay for, including:

1. Uniforms and Equipment: Booster clubs often help cover the cost of uniforms, sports equipment, instruments, or other essential gear for teams, clubs, or organizations they support.
2. Travel Expenses: Booster clubs may assist in funding transportation, lodging, and meal costs for teams or groups traveling to competitions, tournaments, or events.
3. Tournament and Competition Fees: Fees for entering teams or individuals into tournaments, competitions, or events can be a significant expense, and booster clubs may help cover these costs.
4. Training and Coaching: Booster clubs may fund coaching staff, trainers, or instructors to help improve the skills and performance of athletes or participants. Remember to pay the team or school and not the coaches directly.
5. Facility Upkeep: Maintenance or improvement of facilities used by the supported organization, such as field maintenance, gymnasium repairs, or equipment storage, may be funded by booster clubs.
6. Scholarships and Grants: Booster clubs may establish scholarship programs or provide grants to assist individual students or participants with financial needs.
7. Fundraising Expenses: Booster clubs often organize fundraising activities, and the expenses related to these events, such as marketing materials or event supplies, may be covered by the club.
8. Team Meals and Banquets: Booster clubs may pay for team meals, banquets, or other events to celebrate achievements or promote team camaraderie.
9. Special Projects: Booster clubs may initiate or support special projects, such as facility renovations, scoreboard installations, or other improvements that benefit the organization.
10. Community Outreach: Some booster clubs engage in community service or outreach programs to promote their organization's mission, and they may cover associated costs.

It's crucial for booster clubs to operate within the legal and ethical boundaries established by their respective organizations, schools, and local laws. They should maintain transparency in their financial transactions and follow best practices for fundraising, accounting, and governance. Additionally, booster clubs should consult with legal and financial professionals to ensure compliance with tax regulations and nonprofit status requirements if applicable. Rules and guidelines can vary, so it's essential to understand the specific regulations that apply to your booster club's situation.