It's a hard job - so who decides how my dollars are spent in our community?

UNITED WAY DONORS LIKE YOU! It is not an easy job to determine the amount of money that each United Way agency will receive each year. So many needs exist in our community, and there is never enough money to take care of them all. It is crucial then, that funds are distributed in the most effective way by people who have the proper information and your best interests as a donor at heart.

How are volunteers chosen?

Each year as the Community Investment begins, volunteers are recruited from throughout the area. United Way involves a cross-section of the community that is representative of the different types of people who are United Way donors—business people, retirees, educators, health professionals, members of the media, etc.

What do volunteers do?

After receiving detailed training about their important jobs, the volunteers are divided into groups which review packets of information from several agencies requesting funding. The information includes the requests for funding as well as program and service information. After reading the materials and visiting the agencies, the volunteers assemble and discuss any questions and concerns. This discussion is followed by a presentation from the agency, where the agency has the opportunity to discuss its programs and successes. The volunteers then make funding recommendations to the United Way Board of Directors, who then make the final decisions about how much each agency will receive for the coming year.

Why is this process so important?

United Way's fund distribution process provides United Way donors a level of accountability that is second-to-none! This process gives you an assurance that your dollars are being allocated the way you would want them to be by people who have reviewed information about the services and needs that exist in our community. Because all aspects of each of the agencies are thoroughly reviewed, donors can rest assured that contributions to United Way are being used to help local people in an efficient and effective way.

How do I get involved?

Would you like to help your community by volunteering with United Way? Please give us a call at (704) 872-3000 or click HERE to complete an online Volunteer Registration form.

THANK YOU!

Three task forces have been established to address the following needs: Healthcare and Prescription Medication Assistance, Transportation, and Family Self-Sufficiency. Meetings are on-going.