Frequently Asked Questions

I prefer to give my donation to _____. Why should I switch to United Way?

1. If your company has a matching gift program, your gift can be multiplied

2. United Way provides a convenient service of payroll deduction- allowing you to possibly contribute more than you might be able to with a one time gift
3. More powerful way to donate impacting the building blocks of a good life; education, income and health

4. Community volunteers/Impact Council identify critical issues specific to our community and monitor the progress of those issues being resolved

I can't afford to give.

1. For many of millions of hard working individuals and families, the basic ingredients for a good life are increasingly beyond reach.

2. Economic climate has been termed "the perfect storm"

3. Local agencies are reporting that requests for assistance are outpacing available resources. That's why your participation and support of this year's campaign is critical. Help is needed now more than ever. Your gift will be helping your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers survive these difficult times.

4. Remind the person that every little bit helps and whatever they give is appreciate even if it's $1 a paycheck

5. Time is just as valuable as money and encourage them to volunteer

I feel pressured to give.

1. United Way of Yellowstone County does not condone the use of force to influence an employee's decision.

2. If an employee does feel pressured, please assure them that giving is a personal choice.

How much of my donation goes to services versus operating cost?

1. 9% Operating costs; overall management of the campaign, recruiting and training volunteers, producing the local campaign brochure and pledge card, receiving and processing all contributions and pledges, and distributing monies to the recipient charitable organizations.

2. 91% of each donation goes to services, exceeding the Better Business Bureau guidelines which suggest that 65% of total expenses for charitable organizations be spent on programs

3. It takes resources to make resources

Morale is down at the workplace.

1. United way has proven to lift spirits and enhance workplace environments. When time and effort is put into celebrating the campaign- with special meetings, events and raffles- employees get motivated and energized while having fun.

I do not believe in giving money to those who are not trying to improve their lives.

1. Our core initiatives support projects and programs that ensures we create self-sufficiency, by giving a hand up, not a handout.

2. Our initiatives are self sufficient specified focuses on helping people who are working hard but still not able to get ahead.

3. Providing knowledge on how to build financial assets allows these individuals to live with dignity and respect and saves our community thousands of dollars each year in emergency medical and social services costs.

If I currently give through payroll deduction, do I have to fill out another form?

1. Yes. You need to complete a new form confirming your pledge amount and your contact information each year.

What agencies can I give to, and can I give to more than one agency?

1. You can give to one or more agencies that hold a valid 501(c)(3) certificate as defined by the IRS.

2. Please note that each designated gift must be $25 or more.

3. If donating to a new 501 (c)(3), please have agency or organization send IRS certificate to United Way.

4. Donor's information will be shared with the agency unless they indicate otherwise.

How do I receive documentation of my gift for tax deduction?

1. United Way and all non-profit organizations are required to provide receipts for one-time gifts if the gift is made by check, credit card, cash, or stock.

2. This process excludes payroll deduction gifts because the donor's pay stub and pledge card will satisfy the IRS regulations for claiming charitable gifts by payroll deduction.
3. If you have further questions on this, feel free to call our Finance Manager, 252-3839 ext 12.

How does United Way of Yellowstone County hold itself accountable?

1. The most valuable asset we have is the trust and confidence people have in our ability to meet community needs.

2. We are audited each year by an independent accounting firm to ensure we are in compliance with generally accepted accounting procedures and laws.

3. We strive to meet the philanthropic goals of our donors and offer a donor satisfaction guarantee.

4. We complete Database II each year so that we may remain an United Way