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| Who oversees the operations and finances of United Way? The operating budget of United Way of Greater Fall River is audited by an independent accounting firm and carefully reviewed by members of the United Way Finance Committee and United Way Board of Directors. Only about 19 cents of every dollar is used for administrative purposes. United Way is governed by a local volunteer board of directors whose members are respected community and business leaders. Policies, activities, procedures, and agencies we support are determined locally. The community volunteers who lead United Way come from various positions and reflect the cultural diversity of our area. A knowledgeable professional staff works closely with these volunteers, handling United Way's daily operations. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How do I know that agencies supported by United Way will use the funds responsibly? Volunteers oversee the allocation process to ensure that United Way agencies adhere to sound fiscal policies and provide quality services. Allocation panels visit agencies, review their financial documents, and make a report and recommendation regarding each review. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What steps has United Way taken to be more accountable to the community? The operating budget of United Way is audited by an independent accounting firm and is carefully reviewed by members of United Way's Finance Committee and Board of Directors. Additionally, a knowledgeable and professional United Way staff member works closely with these volunteers, handling the daily operations of this organization. United Way of Greater Fall River voluntarily adopted the 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley Act. This act is a federal legislation governing corporate governance and ethics. Although not required by federal or state law as a nonprofit organization, UWGFR voluntarily enacted the law's provisions to make it the most transparent and accountable organization possible. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- How is my contribution invested? United Way's Community Fund focuses on needs important to people who live and work in this community - supporting those with health and disability issues, helping kids succeed, building stronger families, enabling elders to live independently and providing relief in crisis. It helps the people who need it most. When you give to the Community Fund, trained volunteers invest your gift in community programs and services achieving the most impact. Giving to United Way's Community Fund is the most efficient, effective way to support a local network of agencies that help to strengthen the community and change lives. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- What happens if I change jobs while giving through payroll deduction? Your payroll deduction stops when you become employed by another company. When you begin your new job, ask for a new United Way pledge form. Many employers provide pledge forms and information about United Way to new employees and transferees. If your new employer does not have a United Way payroll deduction plan, please call United Way at 508-678-8361 to arrange to continue your pledge payment. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why does United Way support some agencies and not others? Applications for United Way funding can be made by any local 501(C)(3) non-profit organization that produces measurable outcomes, effective results and is working to meet priority needs: Supporting
those with health and disability issues In some cases, an agency may choose not to apply for United Way funding because of its policies, or because it does not meet United Way's stringent standards.
United Way cannot guarantee each individual will receive the assistance requested. Resources are limited, and many times the agency could be out of money, shelters might be full or waiting lists long. United Way is ready to investigate any instance where someone feels he/she has been refused help; just bring it to our attention. If you know someone seeking help, ask the person to call United Way’s Infoline at 508-674-1100. This free, confidential service links people who need help with numerous local health and human service programs. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why should I donate to the Community Fund and not just give my money directly to agencies? There are several reasons why United Way's Community Fund is the best choice for your charitable investment: United Way carefully studies the community to pinpoint our most pressing needs. It also studies program outcomes to identify the programs that are most effective at meeting a given need. Therefore, funds can be focused on the services that are the most effective at meeting the most pressing needs - based on research that most individuals do not have on hand. Needs are not one-dimensional. United Way funds a network of care to insure that all the services needed in our community are available. Agencies work together to help clients get back on their feet. United Way affiliation enables agencies to leverage more public and private dollars in addition to their United Way funding. This multiplies the effect of your contribution. Contributing through United Way guarantees agencies funds they can rely on and plan for, rather than depending on possible contributions. Volunteer oversight assures that United Way agencies adhere to sound fiscal policies and provide quality services. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I already give to other charities. Why should I give to United Way, too? United Way does not want to take contributions away from other organizations. However, churches and other organizations do not meet all of the needs addressed by United Way. Many people choose to include United Way in their overall charitable giving plan because United Way does a multitude of good for many people. United Way is much more than a collector and distributor of money for charitable organizations. United Way exists to help us come together to identify and work on the issues most pressing in our community. By working together and combining our gifts, we can make a stronger impact. Each day, your funds are focused on addressing the most critical needs in our community. From childcare to housing for the homeless; from crisis relief to job placement programs, United Way makes a difference. By supplementing your other charitable giving with a commitment to United Way, you add an entire regional community to your portfolio of giving. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I never use agency services, so why should I give? You never know when you, a member of your family, a neighbor, or friend may need a United Way service. Job loss, loss of a loved one, illness, accidents, disabilities, family problems, natural disasters, mental disorders and the problems of growing up and growing older know no boundaries. Last year, United Way services touched over 64,000 lives. Anyone who has been involved at the Boys’ and Girls’ Club, taken a Red Cross first aid course or learned to swim at the YMCA has been served by a United Way partner agency. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Is it true that money I donate is given to agencies all over the country? No. Although there are United Ways all over the country, each is a separate incorporated entity. You may contribute to any United Way you choose, but contributions collected by United Way of Greater Fall River fund programs in the Greater Fall River Area. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can I use my credit card to make a donation? Yes. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Is giving to United Way voluntary? Yes! Giving to United Way is strictly voluntary. United Way has a written policy against coercion. Education about how United Way agencies help is the best way to encourage contributions. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Can I donate stock and other securities to United Way? Yes, United Way welcomes this kind of gift. Each year, several individuals and families support critical community services and often derive tax benefits by making gifts of stocks and other securities. Bob Horne will be happy to answer your questions and will work with you when you are considering making a gift, or an additional gift, this way. Please call 508-678-8361. |
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