As you peruse today’s newspaper, the United Way of McLeod County is chugging through its 2009-10 Campaign. This year has proven to be an exciting time for us, as we continue to work with outstanding partner agencies. Additionally, we were thrilled to launch our 2-1-1 community help line and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library initiatives. It has been a positive learning experience for us, as we campaign throughout all of the zip codes in the county this autumn.

We are overwhelmed by the tremendous generosity of individuals, small businesses and corporations throughout the area that have already given or pledged this fall and have pushed us nearer our established campaign need of $280,000. In this time of budget constraints, we are amazed at the capacity of people to give of themselves.

Traveling throughout the county making campaign presentations this fall, there have been a number of thoughtful questions raised by folks regarding the United Way and its practices. We thought this commentary a great place to answer some frequently asked questions. The following are a few of the questions we receive most often while visiting service clubs, small businesses and corporations.

Is the United Way of McLeod County a local organization?

The United Way of McLeod County is one of 1,300 independent United Ways across the country organized to help improve their communities. While we all share a common name and logo, the United Way of McLeod County, is an independent, locally controlled organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors from throughout McLeod County.

Why Should I give to the United Way of McLeod County?

The United Way is the most effective way to direct your charitable donations to caring and well-run community programs. Volunteers carefully invest your gift in programs that have proven records of providing life transforming services in a cost-effective manner. 

How does United Way invest my gift?

Each year, over 35 trained volunteers work to carefully review the management and effectiveness of the agencies funded and use this information to determine funding levels. This information gathered from the review process is focused on results. The four key factors in these results include: program accountability, demonstrated change in peoples lives, efficiently and effectively run programs, and programs that are responsive to a changing community. 

What if I can’t afford to give?

By giving a small amount each pay period through payroll deduction, most working people can afford to contribute. Even a small contribution will help someone who might not otherwise receive help. By giving just $1 each week, you provide a night of hotel lodging for a homeless family or much needed groceries at a food shelf.

What amount of money raised goes to fund administration?

Last year our overhead costs for staff, rent/utilities, campaign materials, accounting fees etc. was 13.0% of money raised. This percentage is well below the Minnesota Charities Review Council’s recommended maximum of 30% and the Better Business Bureau’s guideline of 35% for fund-raising costs by charities.

Does United Way only help the poor?

United Way works to benefit the entire community. Examples of broad-based services include: emergency food and shelter programs for people who have been affected by a disaster such as a fire, domestic violence prevention and counseling, and family crisis and stability programs. No one knows when a tragedy will strike and when help will be needed. Each of us benefits from living in a peaceful, healthy community.

(This is an article that UWMC Executive Director Paul Thompson wrote for local newspapers)