What does RYFO stand for?
ROCK YOUR FACE OFF!
What’s the difference between RYFO, RYFO NETWORK, and the RYFO Web-App?
RYFO is the name of the organization. RYFO Network is the group of missionaries that serve with RYFO, and the RYFO Web-App is the tool that musicians use to find RYFO resources offered by RYFO Network members.
How and why did RYFO get it’s start?
RYFO began as a college-dorm-room dream in January 2004, and was made a reality in January 2009 with the launch of our first website. Since January 2009, the servants involved in the RYFO Network, have served the needs of hundreds of touring musicians with practical assistance, free meals, beds to sleep in, care-packs, prayer, and friendship. The vision to serve touring musicians was birthed from seeing Christ-following loved ones struggle through the unique pressures, temptations, and realities that come with life on the road. Though we still hold a significant desire to care for the Christ-following musicians on the road, God has also deepened our desire to serve and share the Gospel of Jesus with all musicians that do not have a personal relationship with him, and those that may have been disenfranchised from the Church for one reason or another. We long to be a part of the Father’s reconciliation plan, while continuing to support the needs of Christ-following musicians as well. We are musicians ourselves. And we understand that a song has incredible power to draw out emotion, express a thought, motivate, comfort, and inspire. Our influence has the ability to reach across borders and barriers, and affect cultures. How exciting would it be to see millions of today’s most influential voices use what they’ve been given to bring the Father’s saving truth to the world?! …not just through their songs, but through their lives!
How are RYFO staff paid?
Each member of the team raises their own personal missionary support from friends, family, and others interested in sponsoring their ministries.
Does RYFO serve musicians outside of the USA?
We seek to serve all musicians, no matter where they are from. As the RYFO Network continues to expand, we will be able to do this with increased ability.
How do you decide which musicians are approved to receive access to the RYFO Web-App?
We’ve chosen to accept all musicians as eligible beneficiaries of our services. We believe that the Gospel is for everyone. We do however recognize that some of the services may only be utilized by touring musicians.
How is RYFO funded?
Currently, we are funded through the RYFO Network member’s gifts, administrative dues and outside donors. In the future, we hope to also receive grants and develop corporate sponsor relationships.
Are my gifts tax-deductible?
Yes. RYFO is a DBA (Doing Business As) of First Baptist Church of Big Bear Valley; a 501(c)3 not-for-profit ministry
Will I receive a receipt for my gift?
Yes. We send out annual donation summaries each year in January.
Can I raise support through RYFO?
We consider every circumstance as unique. If you desire to join the RYFO Network and raise funds so that you are able to devote your full-time attention on your ministry, we would love to discuss that possibility with you. Contact info@ryfo.org to discuss this option.
What is the support raising process?
1) Contact RYFO to discuss your interest. 2) Determine your financial need for RYFO Board review and approval. 3) Complete the RYFO on-boarding process. 4) Begin raising support through RYFO.
Do you have to be a Christ-follower to serve with the RYFO Network?
Yes.
What internship or volunteer positions does RYFO offer?
Periodically, we offer opportunities. Stay tuned to the RYFO Facebook page for opportunities.
What training does RYFO offer it’s missionaries?
We’ve identified this as an area of need, so we are working to offer training and develop materials as soon as it’s administratively feasible. In the mean time, we’d encourage you to explore other outside training resources. Stay tuned to the ‘serving the voices’ blog for updates.
How often do musicians stay with RYFO Host Homes?
It varies by season and location. We are interested in homes that are open to frequently serving as hosts as we aim to build relationship with the musicians we serve.