FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DOES FOSTERING DIGNITY WORK?

Fostering Dignity solicits donations, acquires backpacks, and distributes them to Illinois Department of Children and Family Services child abuse and neglect investigators. Backpacks are used in place of a garbage bag while removing a child from his or her home. We can distribute hundreds of backpacks each year because our officers serve voluntarily. We also diligently seek the best wholesale opportunities to purchase backpacks.

BACKPACKS

What does a backpack cost?

Through purchasing wholesale, we attempt to keep the cost below $5 each.

Can we donate backpacks directly to you?

Yes, we accept new, unused, simple, non-descript backpacks without logos or embellishments. Backpacks can be shipped directly to:

Fostering Dignity
6 Bent Tree Ln.
Towanda, IL 61776

How can I donate?

Fostering Dignity offers several ways to donate, including online and by phone. Please see our Donate page to see which method is most convenient for you.

TAX DEDUCTIONS

IS MY DONATION TAX-DEDUCTIBLE?

Yes, donations are tax-deductible. Fostering Dignity is in partnership with Illinois Prairie Community Foundation (IPCF) is a 501(c)3 organization. IPCF acts as a tax-exempt umbrella for multiple nonprofits. A receipt from IPCF will be provided to the donor’s specified address.

An abbreviated version of “ILLINOIS PRAIRIE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION” will appear on your bank or credit card statement, not Fostering Dignity. IPCF is the fiscal agent for Fostering Dignity.

ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESSES

Will Fostering Dignity present to our organization?

Yes, we would love to present our mission to your organization. Please contact us to schedule a presentation.


Can my business donate to your organization?

In-kind or reduced-price donations of backpacks from businesses can be arranged by contacting Fostering Dignity representatives at 309-728-2696 on weekdays between 8 AM and 6 PM.

Why are you partnered with the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation?

Illinois Prairie Community Foundation (IPCF) is an accredited, tax-exempt organization that provides philanthropic leadership, operational coordination, and grantmaking to community-focused nonprofits.

IPCF is accredited by The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, which confirms operational excellence. IPCF continuously renews its accreditation with National Standards, meaning it meets the highest criteria for local giving.

We entrust IPCF to provide us with quality, cost-efficient administration and stewardship because of their proven credibility. Fostering Dignity has access to charitable networking opportunities and education concerning nonprofit systems and procedures with their direction. We are also able to provide donors with flexible and convenient giving options.

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Fostering Dignity is passionate about dispelling the message to abused and neglected children that their belongings are trash. Your contributions are the lifeblood of our organization.