Private Organizations

Private Organizations (POs) are self-sustaining special interest groups set up by people acting exclusively outside the scope of any official capacity as officers, employees, or agents of the federal government. POs operate on installations with written consent of Installation Commander but are not Federal entities and are not treated as such.

Example Organizations

Squadron Booster Clubs
Unit Advisory Committees
Spouse Clubs
Special Interest Groups
Chief’s Group
Top Three

Guidance & Oversight

AFI 34-223, Private Organizations (PO) Program
- Mandatory compliance
Private Organization Guide – 2018 (Asset Value changes – see new AFI. No more than 3 Fundraisers per quarter for each organization.)
Installation Commander
- Authorizes establishment and operation
- Withdraws authorization
- Authorized to eliminate duplication of services
- Approval authority delegated to 75 MSG/CC
POs or unofficial activities are prohibited against frequent or continuous resale activities. Reference AFI 34-223, 10.9.1 for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Air Force and the Department of Defense has strict guidelines about fundraising. These questions and answers will help you follow the rules you may not have known applied to your organization and give you general knowledge on fundraising within private organizations and unofficial activities. Otherwise comply with AFI 36-3101, Fundraising in the Air Force.

Does my organization have to be a chartered Private Organization (PO) to conduct fundraising activities on base?

No. Approved Unofficial Activities (UAs) are also authorized to conduct fundraisers. However, AFI 34-223 requires your group to be one or the other.

What are Unofficial Activities (UAs)?

Small unofficial activities (like coffee funds and other small operations) are generally not considered POs. However, if their current assets (which include cash, inventories, receivables, and investments) exceed a monthly average of $1,000 over a 3-month period, the activity must become a PO, discontinue on-base operations, or reduce its current assets below the $1,000 threshold.

How can my organization become a chartered PO?

The 75th FSS web site has instructions complete with samples. They can help you complete this package and forward it to 75 FSS/FSR NAFAO for coordination. The request is then forwarded through the chain up to the 75 MSG/CC for approval.

What is the real difference between a PO and a UA?

Like unofficial activities, POs are self-sustaining special interest groups set up by people acting outside the scope of any official position they may have with the government. Unlike unofficial activities, their monthly assets (which include cash inventories, receivables, and investments) are at a threshold exceeding an average of $1,000.00 over a 3-month period. That is the real difference. Both UA’s and PO’s are governed by AFI 34-223, and may operate on the installation at the pleasure of the installation commander.

Do I need Liability Insurance?

POs must have liability insurance unless the installation commander waives the requirement. This waiver does not negate the PO’s liabilities. The waiver says the PO does not normally conduct functions for which there is a danger, damage to property or individuals. In the absence of insurance the PO and their members assume the liability. Liability insurance should be required unless the activities of the PO are such that the risk of liability is negligible. Forward all liability insurance waiver requests though 75th FSS/FSR for coordination and approval. Insurance waivers must be re-evaluated annually.