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TOP 10 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

 

1.           What is United Way?  Where does the money go?

                The United Way is a local, comprehensive way to meet growing needs in Rutherford and Cannon counties.  Each United Way is a locally governed nonprofit organization directed by volunteers like you.  The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties operates three of its own programs that are focused on early childhood learning and professional education.  In 2006-2007, the United Way will support 47 partner agencies and programs that focus on health and human services.

 

 2.            Does United Way take a percent of every contribution?

                While every United Way is different, the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon County currently charges no administration or processing fees to its partner agencies or from designations to many other United Ways in Middle Tennessee.    A small administrative fee (less than a dime from each dollar) may be charged when designations are made to nonprofits outside our scope (i.e., tourism, environment) or when made to agencies that are distant or obscure (i.e., Lupus Association of Seattle).  The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties is committed to maintaining low overhead, and an endowment has been recently established to offset administrative costs.

 

3.             How does an agency become a member of United Way?      

                Any nonprofit health and human care organization serving vital needs in Rutherford and Cannon counties are eligible to apply for admission to United Way.  Based on the recommendation and approval of more than 100 community volunteers, agencies are admitted after careful examination and review of their track record, their financial and volunteer base of support, and their financial need. Volunteer panels make recommendations to the volunteer Board of Directors as to which agencies become a member of the United Way and how much money each agency receives.

 

 4.            I don’t benefit, why should I give? 

                Donors give for a variety of reasons: religious commitment, high character, tax deductions, or “what goes around comes around.”  Everyone benefits from having a healthy community, a higher quality of life, and happier employees.  No one is guaranteed immunity to the problems of today’s society, so it’s good to know that when needed, help is there for you, your family, your neighbors and your co-workers.

 

 5.            Why should I give to United Way rather than directly to an agency?   

                By giving one time your gift does so much. Your gift and United Way work together to:

▫   Ensure high standards of agency service through oversight and accountability standard
▫   Work to address the needs of the whole person: nutrition, literacy, mental health, shelter, food, physical health, and more

▫   Meet the most serious community needs first

▫   Distribute funds for services according to need, not popularity

▫   Free agencies to devote their time to helping people, while we do the bulk of fundraising for them

▫   Democratize giving so that every employee can choose how and where to make the most difference

▫   Reduce the annoyance and duplication of campaigns that would be conducted by each of the 43 agencies and programs

▫   Assure you that your contribution will be used wisely and that it reaches people who really need help

 

6.             I get pressure to contribute.  Do you endorse this? 

                Absolutely not!  Giving to United Way is strictly voluntary.  We strongly discourage coercion in our volunteer training and with participating companies, pointing out that coercion creates more problems than it solves.  We believe that information and education about how United Way serves the community is the best way to encourage contributions.  Your gift does make a difference and we want you to make an informed and willing decision when you give.

 

7.             My spouse gives for both of us.    

                The United Way giving concept is based on each individual contributing to his/her community.  It is important that each person give something to do his or her part—no matter how big or how small.  Every dollar has an impact.

 

8.             Does United Way fund “Agency X?”

                Each United Way is different, so carefully read our list of partner agencies. In the space provided on the pledge form, you may add or subtract an agency from our list if you wish them to receive or not receive a portion of your gift.

 

9.             I know someone who didn’t get help.

                No one is turned down deliberately.  Usually when people cannot get help from a nonprofit organization, it is because either
                limited funds necessitate long waiting lists or because the organization doesn’t offer a specific service.

 

10.          Are the rumors about United Way true?     

                When you hear news about United Way, please take time to find out which United Way is in the news.  There are over 1,400 separate United Way organizations across the country and each operates independently under local control.  United Way agencies and services are different in each community.  Volunteers in our county decide how funds are best used to meet local needs.  When in doubt, call your United Way for the facts (615) 893-7303.