1. What is United Way? Our mission is to improve people's lives by mobilizing the caring power of our communiuty. Mainland Communities United Way supports 34 organizations that provide a wide range of vital social serives. Giving through United Way is an easy and convenient way to support many good causes throughout the year.
2. Who runs United Way ?
A 15-member volunteer Board of Directors governs Mainland Communities United Way. Under the Board's direction, a professional staff of four employees provides support and continuity. Hundreds of local volunteers work to keep United Way a dynamic, growing and responsive organization.
3. How much of my contribution actually goes to program services?
Administrative and fundraising costs are kep very low because of the large number of volunteers involved in raising and allocating funds. This allows 85 cents of every dollar to be used for programming. Without the United Way coordination, agencies would need to spend more of their own money and energy on fundraising efforts.
4. Why should I give when I can only afford a small amount?
Every single dollar makes a difference! Giving in proporation to your capacity provides you with an opportunity to provide services to hose in need. Most workplaces offer payroll deduction, which spreads your pledge payments throughout the year, or you can request billing from the United Way office. Givingyour time through volunteering is equally importand and appreciated.
5. What is Mainland Communities United Way's policy on the release of financial information?
Financial data on the activities of the Mainland Communities United Way is public information. An audited financial report and a report of allocation to funded agencies are available to anyone upon a request. The United Way's annual filings with the Internal Revenue Service are also available for inspection at the United Way headquarters. This document includes the compensation of the United Way's executive director. For more information Please call 409-948-4211.
6. What is the Mainland Communities United Way's policy on coercion?
The Mainland Communities United Way is strongly opposed to any type of coercion used to solicit funds. Our fund-raising success is dependant on how much potential donors know and understand about the Mainland Communities United Way. Coercion only creates animosity, hinders communication and understanding and generally leads to less support. Our United Way firmly believes that giving is a personal decision. That decision should come from the heart.
7. How does an agency become a member of Mainland Communities United Way?
First, any agency requesting admission to your local United Way must be a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization. Each and every year all agencies are mandated to submit a budget request package, which includes all financial support documents, service reports and information on the agency's board members.
8. Who can receive help from a Mainland Communities United Way agency?
Anyone is eligible for assistance if they meet the criteria within the particular agency's requirements. If assistance is needed, citizens may call the Mainland Communities United Way's office. (409) 948-4211 for referral.
9. Who decides where the money goes?
A citizen review committee made up of 50 volunteers from all Mainland Communities of Galveston County serves on allocation panels. Their responsibility is to review each agency's budget and give their recommendations to the Mainland Communities United Way's Executive Board, which in turn presents the budget to the overall Board of Directors for their approval.
10. Can my money be designated to a particular agency?
Yes, designation to a specific agency is accepted through a gift of $25 or more. A designated pledge to a non Mainland Communities United Way agency will be accepted with the stipulation the non-member agency is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. With the acceptance of this non-member agency, there will be a 15 percent withholding fee for administration cost and non-collectable. The single most effective way to help your neighbor in need is by your contribution to your local Mainland Communities United Way.