Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I ALREADY GIVE TO ANOTHER CHARITY. WHY SHOULD I GIVE TO THE UNITED WAY?

A:
We all have favorite charities, but there are some needs that cannot be solved by selective giving. Only a program of skilled, coordinated planning can most economically and efficiently meet our area's total needs.
 

Q: WHY SHOULD I GIVE? - I DON'T USE THE SERVICES.

A:
When reviewing the list of agencies and programs, many people find they, or loved ones, actually have used a United Way agency. Perhaps they have had a child benefit from an after-school educational program provided by a member agency, an elderly parent that used a senior's program, or received aid from the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or America’s Second Harvest of South Georgia during a crisis. In 2007, the Greater Valdosta United Way will fund 20 agencies that will provide more than 100 programs and services to over 100,000 Greater Valdosta United Way residents. Your gift to the United Way ensures that programs will be available when your family needs them.


Q: IS THE GREATER VALDOSTA UNITED WAY A LOCAL ORGANIZATION?

A:
The Greater Valdosta United Way is a locally incorporated not-for-profit organization, governed by a board of directors. The directors are your friends and neighbors who volunteer their time to manage the United Way as your representatives and serve without pay.

Q: WHY IS THE CAMPAIGN GOAL HIGHER EVERY YEAR?

A:
Agency Needs
There is an ever-increasing demand for programs and services. The higher goal reflects the community's needs and the increase in the cost of operating the agencies. The campaign chair sets the goal after accessing community needs.

Pledge Write-offs
Pledge write-offs include the total amount of dollars that were pledged during a campaign but were never received. As employees change jobs, pledges made through payroll deduction do not follow the employee, and often go uncollected by the United Way. Each year, these dollars are part of the total dollars funded to member agencies.


Q: WHO ALLOCATES THE MONEY?

A:
Community volunteers serve on the Greater Valdosta United Way Allocations Panels on an annual basis. They review agency programs, services and budgets. They make on-site visits and listen to the agency present information on their programs and finances. An allocation amount is then determined by the volunteers and presented to the allocations committee for review.  Once reviewed the request is then taken before the United Way Board of Directors for a final decision.


Q: WHO GETS THE MONEY?

A:
Twenty non-profit agencies currently comprise the Greater Valdosta United Way. The funds they receive from the campaign are spent directly on services for our residents. By giving to the United Way, many individuals are helped through our member agencies. Your one gift goes to support six areas of community concern: Instilling Values in Youth, Assisting People in Crisis, Promoting Health and Healing, Providing Opportunities for Seniors, Strengthening Families and Increasing Self Sufficiency.


Q: HOW DOES THE UNITED WAY DECIDE WHICH AGENCIES RECEIVE FUNDING?

A:
The United Way has a two-step process of Admissions and Allocations. The admissions process assures that each agency meets exempt status requirements, offers human services, and provides service based on documented need on a non-discriminatory basis, has active and rotating local volunteer leadership and has sound financial and program management. The allocation process occurs annually. Each agency is asked to demonstrate services based on documented needs as well as outcomes for services provided in a non-duplicated fashion.

The process is fairly stringent in order for the United Way to be able to commit to our donors that their dollars are distributed fairly to all funded agencies. The process is in place so that we can assure donors that we are making fiscally and programmatically responsible decisions.


Q: WHAT HAPPENS TO AGENCIES IF I DON'T PAY MY PLEDGE?

A:
The agencies receive less funding. Please help us keep our commitment to fund our member agencies by honoring your pledge. We realize things come up and circumstances change. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your pledge, please call the Greater Valdosta United Way office at 229-242-2208.


Q: HOW MUCH OF MY MONEY STAYS IN THE GREATER VALDOSTA UNITED WAY AREA?

A:
98.2% of every dollar collected stays in the Greater Valdosta United Way area; The amount of service provided to local residents is the most important factor used in determining the amount of funds allocated to each agency.


Q: THERE ARE JUST TOO MANY REQUESTS FOR FUNDS AND I CAN'T GIVE TO THEM ALL!

A:
Yes, this situation exists. But over the years, more and more agencies have joined the United Way because they see that by participating collectively, a greater percentage of the money contributed goes directly to serve people who need help.