FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How is United Way of Mesa County connected to United Way
of America?
United Way of Mesa County is a local, independent organization. United Way of
America is a national organization that functions much like a trade association
and provides support to help local United Ways. United Way of Mesa County is
an affiliate of UWA and pays dues equal to approximately 1% of the amount we
raise during our annual campaign. Training credits, materials discounts, market
reports, fund raising reports and data, access to national organizations with
coordinated fund raising, staff and volunteer training programs are some of the
benefits provided by UWA.
Who decides how much money is allocated (or given away) to each program?
Citizen volunteers—people like you—are part of the decision making
in the annual allocations process. Agencies apply for program funding to United
Way of Mesa County in December. In February and March, citizen panels review
these applications and visit the agencies and their programs. They make recommendations
to the United Way of Mesa County Board of Directors about each program and how
much funding should be given. Final funding decisions are confirmed by the Board.
These volunteers, representing all segments of the local population, strive to
allocate every dollar wisely and in an accountable manner. Through their work,
you as a donor have assurance that your dollars support quality programs that
are making a difference.
Will United Way let me give directly to my favorite charity?
It is important that we, as individuals, support those causes that are close
to our hearts. You may designate your gift to a specific nonprofit 501(c)(3)
agency, and UWMC will forward your designation less a small processing fee.
Can I claim a tax deduction for my United Way contribution and is it deducted
from my pre-tax or after-tax pay?
Yes, you can. It is deducted from your after-tax pay.
Does United Way support religious agencies?
There are some religiously affiliated organizations that provide human service
programs. United Way policy prohibits the direct support of churches but does
support church-sponsored social service programs available to all regardless
of religious belief.
Don’t I do enough for the community by paying
my taxes?
Your tax dollars do support many social services in this community. Unfortunately,
we have seen dramatic reductions in Federal and State support of social services
over the past decade, and we expect that trend to continue. Local services are
perceived to be the responsibility of the local community. That is why we need
your help to continue services.
How do I know United Way is financial accountable for its actions?
United Way of Mesa County is an independent organization serving the people of
Mesa County. We are committed to being the most efficient and effective community
builder possible, while upholding high standards of professionalism, accountability
and ethics.
Our organization is accountable for its actions by working with committed volunteer
leaders in our community, developing and implementing fair and thoughtful policies,
and having our books audited every year by a local, independent firm, which ensures
that our financial statements are in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. We strive to meet the philanthropic goals of Mesa County by being
fair, honest, and effective. To view our most recent IRS Form 990 (the nonprofit
tax return), click
here.
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