Q: What makes United Way unique?
A: United Way’s most unique trait is that it raises money for many local charities simultaneously, making it the leader in low-cost community impact. Funds are then distributed to charities as directed by volunteer leaders. Additionally, donors have the option of specifying which charities their dollars help fund.

Q: What does United Way money do for the community?
A: United Way dollars help local communities in dozens of ways. From emergency programs that feed the hungry, to shelters for the homeless, to job training designed to help adults better their lives and the lives of their families, local United Ways work with their communities to ensure that every need is being met. And results are quantifiable. For example, in North Central Massachusetts, over 70,000 people were helped last year alone.

Q: How does United Way raise money?
A: United Way raises its dollars through workplace giving. We ask people to donate a small portion of each paycheck, which is deducted every pay period and invested in important community programs. United Way also raises money via direct mail and from corporations and private individuals. In addition, many individuals and corporations use Personal or Corporate Statement Accounts. These accounts are designed to allow donors to manage their charitable giving through one convenient account and utilize the expertise of United Way staff to launch new initiatives or be proactive.

Q: Can my United Way contribution address a particular area of need?
A: Yes, by selecting to target your gift to a specific geographic area on your pledge card, your donation will go toward funding one of the most critical need areas for that respective geographic region. You will have UW’s assurance that your money will be invested in local programs that meet the highest standards for improving the quality of life in our community. You may also choose the Specific Care option which directs your gift to a specific agency.

Q: Why don't all local agencies belong to the UWNCM?
A: Acceptance is determined based on the programs effectiveness, fiscal accountability, and the nature of the communities needs. Volunteer citizens make determinations based on this criteria. Any non-profit agency in the human service field may apply for participation to the United Way.

Q: Why do some participating agencies charge for their services?
A: United Way agencies operate on a not-for-profit basis. Your contributions help make services available to all at lower costs. Those who can afford to pay for all or part of a service at a not-for-profit rate are asked to do so. This makes it possible for the UW to have funds available to insure that no one will be refused because they cannot afford to pay for the needed services.

Q: Isn’t it cheaper for me to just give directly to the charity of my choice?
A: That way I avoid your overhead. A: If you want to give a one-time gift directly to one charity, it might be easier for you to do so directly – United Way supports your desire for charitable giving no matter how you choose to make it. However, through payroll deduction, United Way provides you with a convenient service by directing your gifts to a number of charities and deducting a small amount of money from your paycheck at a time – allowing you to possibly contribute more than you might be able to in a one-time gift and giving you a chance to make a bigger difference to people in need.

Q: Why should I invest in United Way when I never use any of the agency services?
A: You might be surprised to learn how many organizations that touch our lives are supported by United Way donations. The YMCA and the Red Cross are just a few of the United Way agencies that provide services that benefit everyone. It is also important to recognize the value a healthy community represents to all of its citizens.

Q: What agencies are funded, and who decides?
A: United Way volunteers from the local community (this could be you!) identify agencies and programs that provide needed services. They may include many well-known agencies as well as grass-roots organizations that would not be able to provide important services without United Way funding.

Q: Does United Way provide direct services?
A: United Way serves local services and programs by offering low-cost community impact via centralized fundraising and expert leadership. As parts of its mission to serve our communities, United Way organizes and leads the creation of research and reports that analyze problems and present solutions.

Q: How does United Way distribute money?
A: United Way relies on local community volunteers and highly trained staff to make these decisions. We fund a safety net of services so people can count on help when they need it. United Way also funds new initiatives and programs with special grants and seed money.

Q: How does United Way operate?
A: United Way is led by a volunteer board chair who oversees a volunteer board of directors. This board is responsible for setting and approving policy and expenditures by United Way. Hundreds of other volunteers work in local companies and organizations to run fundraising campaigns.

Q: How much does United Way give to charity and how much goes toward your overhead?
A: This is one of our donors’ and volunteers’ most important concerns. United Ways direct fully 85% of each donated dollar directly to programs. Compared to other charities, we're a leader in low-cost community impact.

Q: How do I receive documentation of my gift for tax purposes?
A: Nonprofit organizations are required to provide receipts for all gifts of $250 or more, and at United Way of North Central Massachusetts a confirmation of your gift will automatically be sent to the home or work address provided for any gift of $101 or more. For gifts under $101 or to prove full payment on a payroll deduction contribution, the end of year pay stub can be used or a confirmation can be requested from United Way.

Q: What is the Alexis de Tocqueville Society?
A: The Alexis de Tocqueville Society for donors who contribute $10,000 or more a year to the United Way.