FAQ
Who runs United Way of Southwestern Indiana?
A local volunteer Board of Directors comprised of individuals representing a cross section of the community governs the operations of our United Way. The Board sets and monitors policies, reviews the budget and ensures United Way’s accountability to all donors.
What is our United Way’s relationship to United Way Worldwide?
United Way Worldwide sets a general direction for the United Way system. Membership standards ensure local United Ways are transparent, financially accountable and meet legal requirements for nonprofits. United Way Worldwide provides services such as research, training and public policy to local United Ways.
How much of my money actually goes to programs?
United Way is committed to maintaining a low administrative cost. United Way’s administrative and fundraising percentage is 16%, which means $.84 of every dollar you give goes directly to the programs and services offered by United Way and our Funded Partners. It is important to keep in mind that community work requires technology, human capital and resources, all of which our administrative costs cover. According to the Better Business Bureau the acceptable standard for nonprofits is 35%.
Who monitors United Way’s financial accountability?
A local volunteer Finance Committee and the Board of Directors review United Way’s administrative expenses quarterly and an independent accounting firm audits United Way annually.
How are funds distributed?
United Way depends on a team of trained, cross-sector, diverse volunteers to make funding investment decisions. The Community Impact Cabinet oversees the funding strategy and makes fund distribution recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Community Impact Cabinet also assesses applications, reviews Funded Partner progress reports, and ensures the fiscal stability of any agency to which we grant funds. The Cabinet ensures donor dollars are invested in the most effective, impactful initiatives that will meet United Way’s goals.
Why should I give to United Way when I can give directly to an agency?
Solving community issues demands a collaborative and system-wide approach. No one agency or program can accomplish such a challenging task. However, United Way works across all sectors to convene the appropriate resources to catalyze deep transformation, rather than a temporary fix. In addition, we work to ensure your contribution is invested wisely into programs that illustrate impact in improving upward mobility.
Does United Way support the entire budget for each of the funded partners?
No. United Way funds specific programs implemented by partners that support our strategic focus of improving the upward mobility (economic status and social capital) of individuals and families. We stress that each nonprofit should work to diversify their resources of revenue to be able to better respond to fluctuations in fundraising.
I work in, but don’t live in Vanderburgh, Warrick or Spencer counties, can I designate to my United Way at home?
Yes. Donors may designate their gift to a United Way of Southwestern Indiana Funded Partner or to another United Way. The minimum gift to designate is $25 per agency and a Donor Option Form must be filled out and attached to the pledge form.
If I stop working, what happens to my payroll deduction pledge?
Does United Way support abortion?
No, United Way does not support or fund any programs or agencies affiliated with abortion.