Yep, even those that have 501(c)3 status do this as much as possible. Aside from being an assurance to those donating that the funds are going where they should, it also lessens the financial paperwork for the convention. For those that aren't registered charities, this is even more the case. There are any number of ways a convention could potentially screw up their finances. Most would only have financial repercussions. This is one of the few that could end up with somebody in prison. Don't mess with charitable donations.
Yep, even those that have 501(c)3 status do this as much as possible. Aside from being an assurance to those donating that the funds are going where they should, it also lessens the financial paperwork for the convention. For those that aren't registered charities, this is even more the case. There are any number of ways a convention could potentially screw up their finances. Most would only have financial repercussions. This is one of the few that could end up with somebody in prison. Don't mess with charitable donations.