United Way Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I received a question that I wasn’t sure how to handle.
A. Tell the person that you will get back to him/her. Check with your UW staff person and then contact the donor with an accurate answer. For questions of a sensitive nature be sure to contact your staff person as soon as possible and inform them of the situation.

Q. I heard United Way is changing? What does that mean?
A. Traditionally, United Way has been thought of as a fundraiser – most people think about the dollars raised and the agencies that receive funds. We have found that to achieve real results, we must work in collaboration with others to create initiatives that will address the most serious problems and change community conditions. United Way’s experience and the experience of others tells us that’s the best way to help the most people.

Q. Why Is United Way The Best Choice For My Gift?
A. United Way works every day to advance the common good by focusing on education, income and health. These are the building blocks for a good life—a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through retirement, and good health. One pledge to United Way combines with those of thousands of other people to fund solutions to these issues that affect all of us. No other single contribution supports as many critical human service, health and community development programs that make a difference throughout our community.

Q. Our employees and their families are struggling.  How can we ask them to give?
A. Time and again, some of the most generous donors are those who themselves have needed a helping hand from our community. Everyone should be given an opportunity to express caring through charitable giving, to enjoy the emotional reward that comes from knowing he or she has helped our community become safer and stronger. Only the donor can determine whether he or she can afford to give at this time. Thanks to payroll deduction, even a small amount each pay period can add up over the year, and give the employee a real feeling of connection to our community. 

Q. Why Should I Give To United Way? I Live Outside The Area It Serves.
A. United Way also has arrangements with nearby United Ways. If you live in one of these areas and want your money sent there, you can designate.

Q. I Feel Like I’m Being Pressured To Give To United Way.
A. Neither United Way nor its volunteers believe people should be forced to give. Pressure defeats the very idea of voluntary giving. United Way hopes people will give because they understand the critical needs of local people and because they feel United Way is one of the most efficient, effective and economical ways to improve people’s lives and make our community a better place.

Q.  How Can I Afford To Give To United Way?
A.  Even the most modest pledge can provide vital human care services to the people in our community who need help. Payroll deduction provides a convenient and affordable way to spread your gift over the upcoming year.

Q. Who Decides Where The Money Goes?
A. Volunteer review teams work with staff to make investment recommendations that are approved by the Board of Directors.  Each review team is comprised of volunteers that are representative of the region we serve. Volunteers review program information including: alignment with United Way priority outcomes, organizational capacity and outcomes evaluation.