Texas TicKids Charity Partner Organizations
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
Who qualifies to receive experiences through Texas TicKids?
Programs are for low-to-moderate income youth and their families, up to age 22. Your organization determines who among the families you serve is the best fit for each opportunity.
Do we have to be a 501(c)(3) to participate?
Not necessarily. Title I schools and government agencies serving youth and families are also eligible. If you’re unsure whether your organization qualifies, review our Before You Apply guide or reach out directly.
Is there a fee to participate?
No. Texas TicKids is 100% donor-funded. There is no cost to your organization or the families you serve.
Claiming Experiences
Do we have to claim all the tickets listed for an event?
No. Claim only what your group will actually use. If 50 are listed, you can claim 4 — the remaining 46 stay available for other affiliated charities. Never claim more than you know will be used.
Are experiences only for large groups?
No. Claim whatever size fits your group:
- 2 tickets for a youth and mentor
- 4 tickets for a family
- 10 tickets for a small group
- 25+ tickets for a larger outing
How far in advance do we need to claim?
A minimum of two business days before the event. Requests are not reviewed on weekends — plan accordingly.
Attending Events
Can staff, mentors, volunteers, or parents attend?
Yes — and we encourage it. Our model is built around shared experiences between youth and the important adults in their lives. Staff, mentors, case managers, teachers, volunteers, parents, siblings and caregivers are all welcome as chaperones. The primary recipient should always be an underserved youth. Experiences should never be used for staff or volunteers only unless specifically noted by Texas TicKids.
What if the event content doesn’t align with our mission?
Most events are family-friendly, but Texas TicKids does not screen every opportunity for every organization’s age range, values, or mission fit. We defer that judgment to you.
What about transportation and parking?
Please ensure families have a way to get to the event. Parking details will be noted if included. Otherwise plan for costs or public transit. Arrive on time — many arts performances do not allow late seating until a break.
What should we tell families before they attend?
A simple message works well: “These experiences are made possible through Texas TicKids donors and venue partners. Please only accept if you can attend. If something changes, let us know as soon as possible so another family may have the opportunity.”
If Plans Change
What if we are nervous families may not show up?
Please don’t let that stop you from engaging. We know those we serve face transportation challenges, health issues, and unstable schedules. Communicate clearly with families, emphasize the importance of attending, and contact TicKids if plans change.
What if a family can’t attend after we’ve claimed?
Contact TicKids as soon as possible so we can return the experience to the calendar for another organization.
Will we lose access if something goes wrong?
Not automatically. What matters most is responsible communication, good-faith effort, and completing required follow-up reporting. A pattern of no-shows without communication may affect future access.
Staying Connected
How do we get notified about new events?
Notifications go to your designated contact by email on a bi-weekly basis. If you’d like text updates about strong or time-sensitive opportunities, add your cell phone number under the Profile tab in your portal.
Who do we contact for last-minute issues?
Kris Fanning cell number: 214-394-5713. As TicKids grows, additional team contacts will be added.
Follow-Up Reporting
Why are post-event reports required?
Reports are how we track impact, report back to donors, and support our funding. This data directly sustains the program. Compliance with follow-up reporting is required to remain an active affiliated charity.
How do we submit a report?
Log in to your portal and click Event Survey after each event. Complete the form including basic demographics, an impact statement, and photos or videos if available.
What makes a great impact report?
A specific story about how the experience affected a youth or family is the most powerful thing you can send. Photos and short videos are even better. A quick video from a youth or adult after the event sharing what they saw, felt, or experienced is especially valuable. Ask families for examples — most are happy to share when prompted.
Do you require a photo release?
Yes. A signed photo release form must be on file for your organization before sharing any photos or videos with Texas TicKids. See the Reference Guide for details.