Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why give to United Way of Central Minnesota?
A. Everybody benefits from a stronger community! United Way is the most effective way to direct your charitable giving. Your gift is maximized with others to work towards long-term solutions, not short-term fixes.United Way partners with local programs to make a measurable difference in the issues effecting our community.
Q. Why should I give to United Way if I don't live in St. Cloud?
A. Wherever you live in Central Minnesota, you can be certain that people from your community are utilizing United Way supported programs and services. United Way of Central Minnesota helps people in more than 30 communities. More than 99% of your gift stays right here in Central Minnesota to help our families, friends, and neighbors.
Q. My spouse gives at work. Why should I give too?
A. Each and every contribution is important and makes a difference. We need the help of everyone who can afford a gift if we are to meet the growing needs of people in the Central Minnesota area.
Q. How much of my gift actually goes to help people?
A. United Way of Central Minnesota takes the business of managing your donation very seriously and performance exceeds Charities Review Council guidelines. Because United Way is a volunteer driven organization, low overhead and maximized giving ensures that your money goes to people in need -- less than 7.6% is used for fundraising purposes, and only 5.5% is used for administrative costs.
Q. Who decides how my money is spent?
A. Based on needs identified in our community, trained volunteers determine how to best address those needs in Central Minnesota. Each year, more than 70 volunteers work with our knowledgeable staff to carefully review the management and effectiveness of the programs funded and use this information to determine funding levels. This information gathered from the review process is focused on results. The four key factors in these results include: program accountability, demonstrated changes in people's lives, efficiently and effectively run programs, and programs that are responsive to a changing community.
Q. How much should I give?
A. Only you can decide. United Way respects your right to make this decision. By giving a small amount each pay period through payroll deduction, most working people can afford to contribute. Even a small contribution will help someone who might otherwise not receive help. It doesn't matter how much you give; it just matters that you give.