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United Way of West Tennessee
1341 N. Highland Ave.
P.O. Box 2086 Jackson, TN 38302-2086 Phone: (731) 422-1816 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is United Way?United Way of West Tennessee is a locally incorporated nonprofit organization that raises funds to invest in nonprofit agencies in ten counties. United Way provides no social services itself and keeps no money beyond what is required for administration. What counties does United Way of West Tennessee serve?United Way serves ten West Tennessee counties including Carroll, Crockett, Dyer, Gibson, Hardeman, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, McNairy and Weakley. Who governs United Way of West Tennessee?A 21-member volunteer board of directors governs United Way of West Tennessee. It is made up of representatives from each of the ten counties with each county having at least two representatives. This board is independent and makes policy and funding decisions for our United Way. How much of my money is used for administration of United Way?Because of cost-efficient operations and strong volunteer involvement, we are able to operate with low administrative expenses, now at 15 ¾%. That means that more than $0.85 of every dollar raised goes directly to help folks in our community through various programs and services. It compares favorably with Better Business Bureau guidelines of 25% or less for nonprofit organizations. Allocations and an audited financial statement are public information. Is giving to United Way voluntary?YES! Giving to United Way is strictly voluntary. United Way does not use or approve of coercion. Education about how United Way agencies help people is the best way to encourage contribution. How does United Way use my money?United Way is a problem-solving organization. Your money supports organizations providing a variety of needed health and human services throughout West Tennessee. It is distributed to agencies by volunteers through a process called allocations. Who decides where my money goes?Each year local volunteers evaluate each agency that applies for United Way funding. Each agency must be recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) health and human service nonprofit organization, be governed by a volunteer board of directors, be audited annually by a CPA firm, annually present and defend their entire budget to the volunteers, and operate at a reasonable cost. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why give to United Way instead of directly to agencies?It’s the best way to make sure your contribution reaches the most people who need help. More than 200 trained volunteers spend many hours determining how best to invest your money wisely among our selected portfolio of agencies. This choice offers maximum accountability and the greatest return for your charitable investment. Contributing through United Way guarantees agencies funds they can rely on every month rather than depending on sporadic contributions. Giving through United Way reduces costly and time consuming fund raising efforts for the agencies so more of their time can be spent helping others. Note: United Way also features donor choice. What about United Way of America?United Way of West Tennessee is voluntarily affiliated with United Way of America. Less than ¾ of 1% of each year’s total pledges are used to pay dues. This money benefits the local United Way in the form of research information, national advertising (NFL television and radio ads), training, networking opportunities, free services to the community (800-411-UWAY) and other resource materials. Does United Way of West Tennessee fund Planned Parenthood or any other agency providing abortion services?No. Does United Way spend my money on fancy dinners?No. At United Way special events and meetings, corporations and/or individuals are asked to pay for the cost of attending. How can I get help?Your human resource manager has a complete listing of services provided by county. Or you may call United Way of West Tennessee at 731-422-1816. There is also a complete listing by county on our website. |
