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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should I give to United Way - why not give directly to an individual non-profit?
A: There are two key reasons to give to United Way rather than directly to a non-profit.
First, and more importantly, your United Way gift is an investment
in a powerful network of interconnected programs and services. No one
non-profit organization stands alone. The value of your donation has a
snowball effect, giving it a system-wide impact. For example, say you
gave directly to a women's shelter, which uses that money to provide
much-needed food and clothing to its patrons. What happens when a
resident of the shelter needs a job, or a car to get to her job? When
you donate to United Way, your contribution also goes to programs that
can help her find work, transportation, permanent housing, child care,
and more. It takes a system of support to help her get back on her
feet. By donating to United Way, you strengthen that system. And by
strengthening the system, you strengthen your entire community.
Secondly, United Way's annual campaign efforts give area
non-profits a reliable source of funding. Instead of allocating
precious and scarce resources to solicit individual contributions,
these organizations can count on United Way to cost-effectively promote
and administer a single campaign that raises money for many causes at
once. While our non-profit partners may have additional sources of
income - such as foundation grants, events, and government assistance -
United Way donations provide crucial funds for their services and
programs.
Q: Why have a United Way Campaign?
A: This single, annual fundraising drive, which helps to provide
a multitude of services to the Pioneer Valley, is the most efficient,
economical method yet devised. It works so well because volunteers
combine their resources for one coordinated appeal. Contributors also
have the opportunity to see their charity dollars go the furthest to do
the most good, helping to support over 60 partner agencies.
Q: How is United Way much more than a fundraising organization?
A: United Way’s leadership role in the community brings together
a wide network of people and organizations necessary to address
problems at their root causes. United Way works closely with
businesses, schools, government, faith-based groups and our traditional
partner agencies to enhance the results of our efforts and maximize
resources. The key is aligning several organizations to pursue the same
goal, enabling us to achieve greater results. United Way gives voice to
concerns about the health of our community and our quality of life.
United Way stimulates philanthropy. United Way identifies and places
special focus on critical community issues. We are investing in
solutions that will lift people up and have a positive impact in our
community for years to come.
Q: What makes United Way different from other charities?
A: Most charities focus on a single cause or area of concern.
United Way tackles issues that effect the entire community. One
powerful ibelief guides our mission: it takes all parts of a community
working together to create real, measurable change.
Q: How is my local United Way connected to United Way of America, and to other United Ways across the country?
A: As your local United Way, the United Way of Pioneer Valley
runs an annual campaign that provides funding for local non-profit
organizations and community initiatives. The money you donate finances
health and human service programs throughout the region. We are
separately incorporated and governed by a board of regional community
leaders and volunteers. The same is true for the 1,350 other local
United Ways around the country,
The United Way of America,
based in Alexandria, Virginia, is a trade association that offers
training opportunities, research information, national advertising,
information on best practices, and other forms of support to local
United Ways. These services are paid for through annual dues. |
