Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Fundraising Arm of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia?

The FAR launched its first Annual Fundraising Drive last November. Instead of getting frequent mailers from different organizations asking you for help, donors are invited to pledge monthly (or bi-monthly) donations to the charities of their choice, which are automatically withdrawn from their bank accounts, for twelve months.

What is the Annual Fundraising Drive?

The FAR is launching its first Annual Fundraising Drive this November. Instead of getting frequent mailers from different organizations asking you for help, donors are invited to pledge monthly (or bi-monthly) donations to the charities of their choice, which are automatically withdrawn from their bank accounts, for twelve months.

Are funds meant for my parish held by the FAR for any period of time?

No. Donations to your parish are transferred from FAROCOR to your parish's account on a monthly basis.

Why should I participate in the FAR's program?

In today's fast-paced and busy world, the Christian tradition of tithing is sometimes forgotten. We provide a way for you to fulfill your obligations towards the Church easily and consistently.

Who will benefit from the FAR?

-Donors: by making a one-time pledge to beneficiaries of their choice and avoiding constant reminders and the hassle of writing checks and mailing envelopes;

-Parishes: by using the FAR to collect their own parish dues and other special collections;

-Beneficiaries: by receiving a steady stream of income without the cost of mailings, payment processing and bank fees and other expenses.

How does the FAR help collect donations?

The FAR offers a low-cost automated giving program that automatically withdraws funds from your bank account and directs your financial gifts to the charities you specify. It eliminates the need for envelopes and writing checks, and it provides you with a safe, worry-free way to stay on track with your gift commitment.

What technology is being used?

The FAR, together with its partner, Authorize.net, offers a wide range of donation processing technology, including automatic withdrawals from checking/savings and credit card accounts, check-scanning technology, and internet donations through secure gateways.

Why shouldn't I just write a check?

Besides taking up more of your time, the bank fees for checks, the cost of envelopes and stamps, and the clerical cost of processing these checks decrease the amount the beneficiary actually receives.

Can I make payments from my savings account?

Yes. Simply provide your account information and your bank's ABA number (a nine-digit number on the lower left corner of your check, or contact your bank). Withdrawals will be made the same way as from a checking account.

Can I make donations via credit card?

Yes. Regular payments can be charged to your credit or charge card as per your instructions.

How does my parish raise money through the FAR?

Your parish volunteer can sign you up for the automatic withdrawal of parish dues from your bank account, thereby eliminating the need for monthly reminders. The FAR can also help with special projects approved by the Synod of Bishops by reaching out to ROCOR members outside your parish.

How do I sign up?

A simple, one-page Pledge Form is provided for donor information and a list of all beneficiaries. Donors specify how much they want to give to each charity and how often and when the automatic withdrawals are made, and attach a voided check.

How does the FAR operate?

An Executive Committee handles the day-to-day operations, reporting four times a year to the Synod of Bishops, which approves all programs and expenditures. A Board of Trustees, consisting of laypersons, oversees the FAR. An outside auditing company ensures fiscal propriety and transparency and legal counsel ensures strict adherence to the law.

What else does the FAR offer?

Launched soon will be the ROCOR Foundation, which will help donors through planned giving, wills, life insurance options and an array of other convenient and tax-beneficial options of giving.

How much of my donations will go to its intended purpose?

Thanks to the latest information technology, secure gateways and improved bank services, the collection of donations is streamlined like never before, saving two-thirds (2/3) of the cost of processing donations, virtually eliminating the need for expensive processing. And because the Synod of Bishops itself covers some of the operating expenses of the FAR, more of your money will go to your intended recipient.

How will I know how the campaign is going?

Multiple reporting systems will provide transparency to the donor: e-mail notification, updates on our website www.farocor.org and the Synod website and ROCOR publications, a Quarterly Report sent to parishes, and a yearly audited report.

How secure is the FAR program? Will my information be shared with anyone?

PAYtran provides a highly-secure system in accordance with all state and federal laws. The FAR will not distribute or otherwise share your information with anyone.