What it is
Training scholarships and safety programs cover the cost of education so more people can take part. Common examples include firearm safety classes, scholarships for people who can't afford instruction, and safe-storage programs that help households store items securely.
These efforts are about knowledge and responsibility. Many focus on safe handling, secure storage, range etiquette, and understanding local rules, along with community safety education for families, new participants and youth sport programs.
A scholarship fund might help a neighbor attend a class, support an instructor who offers free community sessions, or help a local group provide storage education materials. Each program sets its own goals, eligibility and format.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, safety and training programs have been supported through class fees, club memberships, volunteer instructors and local sponsorships. Many clubs and community groups have also passed the hat or held fundraising events to sponsor a few seats.
Some programs partner with local businesses, ranges or civic groups to offset costs. Others rely on word of mouth, bulletin boards and email lists to find supporters, which can work well locally but may limit reach.
Approaches differ widely by community, and each has its strengths. Some groups prefer small in-person efforts, while others add online tools to reach friends, family and supporters beyond their immediate area.
How the right organizer may help
The right organizer may help you turn a good idea into a clear, shareable campaign. That can include describing who the scholarships are for, how funds will be used, and how people can follow along. A first conversation is generally about your goals, your audience and the practical steps involved.
On 2A Support, an online fundraising platform lists the plans: Free, Grow at $99 per month, and Done-for-you outreach at $1,500 per month. The platform fee is 6% per donation, and payouts are made on the 15th for the prior calendar month. An organizer may help you decide what level of support fits your program.
Good questions to ask include: How will funds be used and reported? Are there state rules on charitable solicitation or raffles that apply to us? Does our group need to register? Is a qualified professional reviewing our plans? Remember that only gifts to IRS-registered charities may be tax-deductible, and you can check status with the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search.
The bigger picture
Learning safe practices can build confidence, calm and a sense of responsibility for the person and their household. Helping someone attend a class can also bring a sense of purpose and connection to the people sponsoring it. Money worries can be a quiet barrier, so reducing that barrier may bring some peace of mind.
For organizers, running a campaign takes time and care, so it helps to pace yourself and ask for help. If you also work with wellness or care professionals, Providers.plus may be one place to explore additional resources. No single approach is right for everyone, and every community starts from a different place.
Keep in mind
- This page is educational only and is not legal, tax or financial advice.
- Charitable-solicitation registration, raffle and gaming rules, and legal-defense-fund rules vary by state, so check your state's rules and consult a qualified professional.
- Donations are not automatically tax-deductible; only gifts to IRS-registered charities may be, so verify with the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search.
- The platform is for funding education and safety programs, and is not a place to buy or sell firearms or ammunition.
Organizers
We’re welcoming founding organizers for training scholarships & safety programs now. Get matched or list your practice.
Frequently asked questions
What is an online fundraising platform for training scholarships?
It is a website tool that lets organizers collect community donations to fund training, such as safety classes or scholarships. Supporters can give online, and the organizer can share updates on how funds are used. It does not guarantee any particular amount of support.
Can I use an online fundraising platform to sponsor firearm safety classes?
Yes, many organizers raise funds to sponsor safety education for people who cannot afford it. You should check your state's rules on solicitation and any local requirements first. A qualified professional can help you understand what applies to you.
How much does the platform charge?
The platform fee is 6% per donation. Plans are Free, Grow at $99 per month, and Done-for-you outreach at $1,500 per month. Payouts are made on the 15th for the prior calendar month.
Are donations to a training scholarship tax-deductible?
Not necessarily. Only gifts to IRS-registered charities may be tax-deductible, and that depends on the situation. You can check an organization's status with the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search and talk with a tax professional.
Do I need to register to fundraise for a safety program?
It depends on your state and how your group is organized. Charitable-solicitation registration, raffle rules and similar requirements vary by state. Check your state's rules and speak with a qualified professional before you launch.
What are safe-storage programs?
Safe-storage programs help households learn about and access secure ways to store items, with a focus on preventing unauthorized access. Some offer education, and others may provide supplies through community partners. Programs vary, so look at each one's goals and eligibility.
Educational resource. 2A Support shares general information and connects people with independent organizers. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.