Q. What is the Capital Area United Way?

A. Capital Area United Way is a local charity that strives to improve the lives of people in the tri-county area. Through the Community Improvement Fund, donor investors provide assistance to more than one charity. The Community Improvement Fund is the collective power of people working toward long-term solutions not just short-term fixes. Donors are able to invest their resources into six community improvement goal areas:

1. provide basic needs in emergencies
2. ensure successful youth and children
3. reduce child and domestic abuse
4. strengthen families
5. help people in crisis retain their jobs
6. provide a safety net for seniors

Q. How can I make sure my gift has the most impact?

A. The Community Improvement Fund is the best choice for giving. Your gift makes a direct impact on the lives of people in the tri-county area. You get results because Capital Area United Way focuses on results and requires program effectiveness and financial accountability.

Q. Why do businesses and labor choose to support Capital Are United Way?

A. Capital Area United Way is the most efficient organization for investing charitable dollars. Capital Area United Way maximizes employee’s limited time and resources for charitable workplace appeals. It is a trusted community organization that helps improve people’s lives. Businesses and labor groups believe in giving back to the community through United Way.

Q. Are there giving guidelines to help me determine how much I should contribute?

A. Capital Area United Way believes in the donors right to choose his or her level of giving. Our primary message is participate! Giving and working together we can build a better community.

Q. What are the overhead and fundraising costs?

A. When you give to Capital Area United Way 85 cents of every dollar goes to support direct service programs in our community. Our historical commitment has been to keep administrative costs low. Capital Area United Way intends to maintain this commitment.

Q. What happens if I disignate my pledge?

A. You may designate your gift to any 501(c)(3) organization(s) you choose. If you feel strongly about designating, please take a moment to think about the following: Gifts to the United Way Community Impact Fund and Community Initiatives support programs that provide services that address our community’s priorities. See reverse side for more information about Capital Area United Way designation policy. Include additional forms for multiple agencies.

Q. What if I can't afford to give?

A. Even a small contribution will help someone who might not otherwise receive help. Your gift strengthens other gifts. No gift is too small. By giving a small amount each pay period through payroll deduction most working people have found they can afford to contribute.

Q. What make the Capital Area United Way different from other national funraising charities?

A. It’s important to remember that Capital Area United Way is a local, independent non-profit. The money raised in the tri-county area stays in our area to address local human service needs. You can be assured it is effective, efficient, and accountable.

CAUW raises funds locally to support programs that assess locally defined community needs. It works with a variety of community-based organizations to solve community problems.

Q. Is United Way money wasted on lunched and events?

A. Contributions do not pay for lunches or parties. All United Way events are paid for by the attendees or sponsored by community-minded businesses.

Q. I don't live here, can I give where I live?

A. Capital Area United Way participates in a process with other United Ways in our region that allows you to give through your employer and designate your gift to the United Way of your choice.

If you work in the tri-county area, but do not live here and would like your gift to go to the United Way in your county, you may indicate that on your pledge card.

Q. My partner/spouse gives. Why should I give too?

A. To be able to provide a strong network of services in the community, Capital Area United Way asks every working adult to give what they are able. If your combined annual gift is more than $1000, you and your spouse/partner can be recognized through United Way’s Leadership Giving Society program.