United Way contributions: Answers to commonly asked questions, concerns

The Cornell United Way Campaign is committed to raising money to help support the many beneficial programs and services that the 29 member agencies and 10 community councils provide to the community. In all, more than 100 community programs are provided by United Way member agencies.

This year is a perfect time to begin giving or to raise your contribution. United Way will receive a challenge grant from a generous anonymous donor; all new dollars raised will be matched on a one-to-one basis, up to $175,000.

In the past, some people have been reluctant to contribute and have expressed concerns about where their contributions are going. Here are answers from the United Way to the most commonly asked questions and concerns. If you have other questions, check out the new United Way web site at www.sws.cornell.edu/CUW/ or contact the United Way at 272-6286 or by e-mail at annuw@clarityconnect.com.

Administrative costs are too high.

In fact, United Way of Tompkins County's administrative costs are very low. Because much of the work is done by volunteers, more than 85 cents of every dollar collected goes to fund agencies' services. Compare United Way's low 15 percent fund-raising and administrative costs with the National Charities Information Bureau's acceptable administrative cost of 40 percent.

I don't want to give to United Way because I don't want any of my money going to "ABC agency."

Through donor designation, it isn't necessary to withhold your support of the other agencies funded through your contribution. You may exclude a particular agency for a personal reason and United Way will honor your wishes. Likewise, you can designate that your money go to particular agencies.

I live in another county. Why should I give to United Way of Tompkins County?

Your interest in helping people in your home community is appreciated. United Way has an arrangement with United Ways in surrounding counties. If you want your money sent to that area, you may designate that it is sent there.

Why should I give when your member agencies charge fees?

Even though United Way raises a great amount of money, it never could raise enough to support fully all services for all people. Don't you feel you would want to pay for services if you could? That's why those who can afford to pay for all or part of the services are asked to do so according to their ability.

I designated to a specific agency last year, and I never received a confirmation letter.

United Way tracks all donor designations to ensure that your dollars are reaching the agency of your choice. There is a check-off box on the pledge card that can be used so that your gift will be acknowledged by the member agency/community council.

I work for a living and pay my own way. None of these agencies help me or my family, so why should I support them?

There is no family or individual in Tompkins County that is totally untouched by the work of United Way member agencies. Many of us benefit directly and all indirectly. There are many people who, at some point in their life, are unable to help themselves. They need our helping hand.

How can the United Way afford all that expensive advertising, locally and nationally (NFL)?

National spots are provided at no cost to United Way by the National Football League (NFL). Radio, television and newspapers (such as our local media) are great supporters of United Way and often provide free or discounted time and space.

I know a friend who didn't get help when she needed it, so I'm not going to give.

It is important that when we give our money, we're sure that people are getting the help they need. What reason was given to your friend? United Way is always willing to check out specific cases of refusals of service. We can call the United Way office to check and see what happened.

Several United Way member agencies are in the process of making building improvements. I don't think United Way funds should pay for this.

United Way funds are not used for bricks and mortar, but are targeted for program operations. If any agency needs improvements for its facility, a capital campaign drive is developed separately from United Way.

Why should I give when I feel pressured?

United Way has a written policy against coercion. It states that giving is strictly a personal decision. When organizations or individuals pressure anyone, they are defeating the very idea of voluntary giving. Giving should come from the heart; we are not trying to pressure you. We are just asking.