FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why give to the United Way?

Giving through the United Way is a simple, effective way to make a difference in your community, or around the world. People who choose to contribute to the United Way know and trust that their contributions significantly improve the lives of individuals and families and make communities healthy and vibrant. Decisions as to how United Way dollars are spent are made locally by community members, and evolve with changing times and needs. Giving to the United Way is easy too, as gifts can be made through payroll deduction or directly. Even 25 cents a day makes a huge difference in someone's quality of life. Funding from United Way allows agencies to focus more on programs and less on their own fund-raising. In fact, some people do all their charitable giving through United Way using donor designations.

Yes! We have a "give where you live" philosophy, you can give at your workplace and designate to the United Way where you live.

How much money goes to administration? 

The United Way of the Tri-Valley Area pays only one percent of annual Campaign fundraising dollars raised to United Way Worldwide, our parent organization. Our local overhead rate varies each year, but is consistently below 12% which is inline with the nonprofit sector average.

What is the Community Fund?

By far the largest portion of campaign dollars are contributed to the Community Fund. The Community Fund is made up community contributions that are not designated to a specific organization. Organizations who apply for funding through a rigorous process, are allocated money through the Community Fund. Each year, community volunteers determine how allocations are divided among eligible applicant organizations. This volunteer driven process ensures that your donations are invested wisely.

I don't have any money to contribute, but I would like to be involved. How else can I be of help?

Lending your voice to a cause or giving time is important and valued. Please contact us to see how you can advocate for strengthening families, reducing homelessness, or preventing violence. We also welcome volunteers at the United Way, and enjoy connecting you to meaningful volunteer opportunities throughout the community.