Applications must be submitted between Wednesday, September 25, 2024 and Tuesday, October 15, 2024, EOB.

Both new and returning charities are welcome to apply for the 2026 RFAR program. To qualify, organizations must meet several requirements. They must be a tax-exempt charitable organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and have been in operation for at least two years. Additionally, their administrative expenses should not exceed 25% of their annual revenue. The organization must be governed by a voluntary Board of Directors that sets policies and oversees its activities. A regular financial review by a CPA or accountant is required to ensure that financial statements comply with generally accepted accounting principles and do not need modification. Furthermore, each organization must identify a staff member to serve as the Charity Administrator and be the main point of contact. Finally, the organization should serve constituents and host events in the greater Houston area that will benefit directly from the funds raised through the RFAR program.

New Charities: Click the "New Charity Application" button to access the new charity application form. Returning Charities: Click the "Returning Charity Application" button to access the returning charity application form.

The application consists of two sections and must be completed all at the same time. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time to complete both parts of the form.

No, applications must be completed and submitted through the provided online forms. Emailed, faxed, or hard copy applications will not be accepted.

Incomplete and late applications will not be considered, so please ensure all required information is provided and submitted within the application period.

Information collected in your application is for internal review by the Houston Marathon Committee (HMC) and will not be shared externally.

Charities will be notified of their acceptance or denial on or before November 30, 2024.

Please email: arayner@houstonmarathon.com

Upload your organization’s logo in both PNG and EPS formats.

Describe the importance of participating in the RFAR Program and how the funds will benefit the Houston community. Provide a business or marketing plan detailing your recruitment and incentivization strategies for participants. Include any other relevant information for the selection committee.

You must indicate the minimum fundraising amounts required for registration types. For the Chevron Houston Marathon or Aramco Houston Half Marathon FFR entries, the minimum amount is $500. For We Are Houston 5K FFR entries, the minimum amount is $250.

To confirm your organization’s status, provide one of the following documents: a Charity Navigator report, a GuideStar report, or BBB accreditation status.

Upload a letterhead document listing the names of your organization’s Board of Directors.

Submit a signed copy of your most recently filed IRS Form 990. If you filed Form 990 EZ, also include the first two pages of the standard Form 990 along with the 990 EZ form.

Upload a copy of your charity’s IRS 501(c) 3 determination letter.

Upload the most recent audit report or a letter from your CPA/accountant verifying the financial statements.