Frequently Asked Questions
Local United Way Agencies
Does the United Way run the agencies listed in the brochure? No. Every agency is a separate organization with its own board of directors and staff that determines its mission and the services by which to carry out that mission. The United Way’s annual fund-raising campaign helps to eliminate some of the costs incurred by the individual agency’s own fund-raising. Importantly, it allows more time to the agencies to provide services for those in need.
What types of services do the agencies provide? Our agencies provide a wide variety services, from affordable child care for working parents, character building programs for children and youth, emergency assistance, including shelter for the homeless and those in crisis, food prescription drug assistance, family counseling, substance abuse counseling and prevention, assistance and training for the mentally and physically challenged.
Are these services just for the poor? No. United Way dollars go where they will do the most good for the entire community and are aimed at all people. Some services may be restricted by income or other criteria. Perhaps you, a neighbor or coworker or family member has benefited from the services of a United Way agency.
Does each agency receive the same amount of money from the United Way? No. Funds are allocated on the basis of the agency’s needs, other sources of income balance against the community’s needs and the amount of money raised in the community campaign.
Do United Way agencies have other income? All agencies develop additional sources of revenue such as: grants, government contracts, membership fees to name a few. When determining the annual allocations, the local United Way considers the agency’s other sources of income.
Why do some agencies charge fees? United Way funded services are used by people from all walks of life - not as a charity but as an aid to everyday living. People can afford to pay, do so; others pay the apart they can afford. For those who cannot pay at all, United Way funding helps make up the difference.
Local Contributions
Why have United Way campaigns every year? Through United Way, each person can involve themselves as a responsible citizen of our community, individually and as a representative of the company. Company support is equally important. Many companies believe that a single annual fundraising campaign is the most efficient and economical method for contributing to vital services locally. Giving through United Way, our contributions go further to meet real needs than when we give individually.
Why should I give to the United Way rather than an agency I know and love? United Way funds such a wide variety of organizations, you or a family member probably been helped without even knowing it. Examples might include American Red Cross, Girl Scouts and YMCA to name a few. Even if you have never needed service from one of our agencies, we can never know when our life situation might change- traffic accidents, sudden illness, mental or emotional stress, a child’s developmental disabilities, or other crisis may come to us without warning. Your gifts to United Way make possible the specialized services and support that you, your neighbors or family many need in times of difficulty.
How much of my gift will go the agencies? On average, at least $.85 of each dollar goes to the agencies of our own community.
How much should I give? Each person must consider personal and family needs when considering their ability to give to the United Way. In two-income families, both persons should determine how much based upon individual income. The United Way, or company pledge card, provides a suggested giving guide.
Other Questions
Do local tax dollars support the same agencies that United Way supports? While in almost all Florida counties, county government provides funding to human services agencies such as many that the United Way supports, Collier County commissioners voted to do away with “charitable giving” in 1992. Your tax dollars and your charitable dollars do not support the same county services.
Is my contribution tax deductible? Yes.
United Way of America
Do local contributions go to the United Way of America? No. Each local United Way sends less than 1% of its overall annual contributions to UWA. Locally, interest earnings pay this small fee, not campaign contributions.