Reader Question: Can nonprofit board members win the organization's raffle?

Just to elaborate a little further, this person was asking whether a Director from their board of directors could win the raffle prize at their event. This same question could be asked about whether staff can win the raffle prize at an event.

This is a tricky question. Technically speaking, in most states, the answer is yes- your staff or board members can win raffle prizes. Now, this can vary, so make sure to check your state Gambling Board to see what the rules or laws are in your state.

So, it is allowed, but would you want your staff or board members to win the raffle? I would think no. From the appearance point of view, it may not look good to the donors and volunteers who spent money on raffle tickets if an organization insider won the prize.

I think this is a decision that each organization has to make, keeping in mind any rules or laws that gambling board have.