Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why would I give to United Way when I can give directly to an agency?
The power of your gift combined with the gifts of others is far greater than the power of your gift alone. Unless you make a major gift of thousands of dollars, your gift can't fund a program; but when leveraged with the gifts of others through United Way, it can. We give because we want to help those in need.
2. How do I know the money I give gets to
where it's needed most?
United Way works in the community to monitor needs, identify and fill gaps, and track program results. United Way's allocation process ensures that campaign proceeds are spent wisely. In this process, volunteers from the community and professional staff form the Citizen Review Committee identify community needs, and carefully review the applications from charitable agencies, before funds are allocated.
3. How can I be sure my money is going where I direct it to go?
Both an internal and external audit is performed to certify the correctness of our operations.
4. How much of my contribution actually gets to where it is needed?
We're proud of the low cost of our fundraising. Thanks to the work of volunteers and the generosity of many sponsors, United Way of Lethbridge & South Western Alberta is able to keep fundraising costs low. The average cost of fundraising in Canada is 26%. United Way is held to the 80/20 rule by the Canada Revenue Agency to ensure a minimum of 80% of charitable receipted gifts are turned back into the community for program funding. Furthermore, United Way funds programs offered by agencies. That means your donation goes directly to programs and services for the people who need it.
5. Why aren't all agencies a part of United Way?
Registered charitable organizations are eligible to apply for funding, however must meet the criteria.
6. Does United Way fund abortions?
No, United Way does not fund programs that provide or encourage abortions.
7. Does United Way fund agencies with religious affiliations?
Only, donor choice dollars go to religious organizations.
8. I feel I am being pressured to give...
Voluntary giving is what United Way is all about--no one should feel forced to give. In fact, United Way has a policy against coercion. Campaign volunteers explain the benefits of giving one gift that helps many, but the decision to give is strictly personal.
9. Why should I give? I never use agency programs.
Your support ensures that you, your loved ones, and your neighbours have help when it is needed. Your gift to United Way is an investment in the quality of life in the community where we live, work, raise our families, and retire.
10. How do I benefit by giving to United Way of Lethbridge and South Western Alberta?
You can feel assured your money is well spent and will reach people in need right here in our community.
You can feel especially good because:
The United Way Symbol Says It All
The hand symbolizes the services and programs supported by the United Way.
The image in the centre, the symbol of mankind, is cradled by the helping hand. It shows that all people are uplifted by the United Way.
The rainbow springs from the hand, representing the hope of a better life possible through the United Way.