FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE UNITED WAY AND HOW IS GIVING TO THE UNITED WAY DIFFERENT FROM GIVING TO OTHER CHARITIES?
United Way is the most efficient way for donors to make the greatest impact in their community. The United Way conducts research to ensure that the programs and services being funded are critical, effective and cost-efficient. The United Way invests resources into programs and services focused on prevention, intervention and support. We continually monitor the effectiveness of funded programs and services. The United Way is able to respond to emerging local needs. Additionally, United Way focuses on Community Impact— a big picture way of thinking that attempts to combat the root causes of social issues, not just the ramifications.
HOW MUCH DOES UNITED WAY SPEND ON FUNDRAISING AND ADMINISTRATION?
United Way keeps administrative costs to a minimum thanks to community partnerships and thousands of volunteers. Our audited financial statements show our fundraising and admin costs to be 10 per cent.
IF UNITED WAY RAISES FUNDS FOR SO MANY AGENCIES, WHY DO I STILL RECEIVE REQUESTS FOR MONEY?
United Way does not provide 100 per cent funding for any one program or to any one member agency. Ensuring a healthy variety of supporters ensures sustainability and viability of all United Way funded programs and services. It also ensures that multiple stakeholders have an opportunity to give input into multi-dimensional issues.
MY SPOUSE GIVES AT WORK, WHY SHOULD I GIVE?
You can combine your gifts for favourable tax credits and recognition. Through payroll deduction, one smaller gift added to another equals an effortless way to give a larger gift.
DOESN'T THE GOVERNMENT PROVIDE MONEY TO HELP THESE AGENCIES?
While many government departments do fund or purchase services offered by these agencies, the United Way is the only stable source of funding for many programs.
I NEVER USE AGENCY PROGRAMS, HOW DO I BENEFIT BY GIVING TO UNITED WAY?
United Way is a network of care you can support now so essential programs and services are available in the event you need to access them. Your gift ensures that you and those you care about will have support when it is needed. Your gift to the United Way is a sound investment in the quality of life in your community. United Way funded programs reach into all sectors of our society, and include vital services such as mental health aid, search and rescue recovery and even grief and bereavement support. Whether it helps your neighbour cope with vision loss or provides your child with an engaging after-school activity, we all benefit from a healthy, supportive community.
I DON'T WANT MY MONEY TO GO TO ONE OF THE MEMBER AGENCIES.
There are many agencies the United Way funds that provide essential services. However, the United Way sincerely believes in the donor’s right to choose. You may take advantage of the Donor Choice option on your pledge card to designate a portion of your donation to or from an agency.
WHEN WILL I GET A TAX RECEIPT FOR MY DONATION?
If you give through payroll deduction, your contribution will be on your following year’s T4. Whether you give by cash, cheque or credit card, your tax receipt will be mailed to your home address by February 28 of the following year. Please ensure you complete the home address section of the pledge form if donating by cheque, cash or credit card as this information is required by CRA regulations.
WHEN WILL THE AGENCY RECEIVE MY DESIGNATED DONATION?
Your donation will be sent to the agency in four quarterly payments over the following year.
WHAT IF I LIVE OUTSIDE OF FORT MCMURRAY?
We encourage you to consider supporting our local community. However, you can designate your donation to any community United Way or to a specific registered charity by indicating your choice on your pledge card.
