Frequently Asked Questions
What does United Way of Stanly County do?
United Way of Stanly County conducts annual fundraising to support local non-profits who provide critical human service programs. However, the United Way provides much more than dollars. It has an overview perspective of the community. Each local United Way identifies community issues, convenes community groups and develops special initiatives. It certifies agencies and holds them accountable for outcomes. Some have called United Way’s certification the “Good Housekeeping” seal of approval for nonprofit agencies. And our United Way strategically invests in effective programs, innovative approaches, and collaborative solutions. It supports invaluable services necessary to strengthen the community, including 2-1-1, the 24-hour hotline for resource information.
What is the relationship between United Way of Stanly County and United Way Worldwide?
United Ways are completely independent and run by local volunteers and staff in each community. At United Way of Stanly County, money is raised locally and stays in the local community. We have a local volunteer board of directors who determines our vision, mission, purpose, goals and objectives. Locally, we rely on United Way Worldwide to provide training for staff and volunteers, use of the United Way logo and community building resources that would otherwise be unavailable.
How are funding decisions made?
A committee of local volunteers review funding applications, listen to program presentations and review the programs services from Partner Programs. They make funding recommendations based on the information they have obtained. Final funding is approved by the United Way of Stanly County Board of Directors.
Are all funds kept in Stanly County?
Funds raised in Stanly County, stay in Stanly County. However, if you ask United Way of Stanly County to send your donation to a non-profit agency outside Stanly County your request will be honored.
What if I can't afford to give much?
Every person’s gift makes an impact and together they can add up to a life-changing difference for someone in need. A little bit goes a long way for agencies and helps them focus on providing service.
If you wish to give of other resources, including your time and talents, you have many options throughout our community.
Why give directly to United Way?
* Your money works in our community to fund effective, efficient programs that get results.
* All funding decisions for this county are made by local volunteers.
* United Way is the only organization that allows you to give to the entire community, not just one area of need.
* You can donate through your company's payroll deduction plan which makes giving easy.
* United Way of Stanly County is efficient. Because we depend heavily on volunteers, we have one of the lowest administrative rates among all non-profits.
Who benefits from my gift?
In a word - EVERYONE. Your neighbors, co-workers, even your own family may have benefitted from United Way partner agencies. Emergency shelter, medical care and other programs for the needy are just the beginning. There are countless examples of people touched by United Way that add up to creating a healthy, vibrant, caring environment that serves individuals, businesses and social and civic organizations.
How can I make a difference?
Thanks for asking! A gift to United Way does make a targeted difference, but so do your other contributions of time and talent. There are many opportunities within our community to get involved through volunteering, advocacy and education.