Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is United Way of the Piedmont addressing COVID-19 issues?
A: Since March 2020, United Way Community Resource Coordinators have served as first responders for families impacted by COVID-19. CRCs have assisted over 780 families, and through the United for All Fund, over $500,000 in financial assistance has stabilized almost 600 households.
In November 2020, we were honored with the COVID-19 Response Community Service Award from InnoVision Awards, a state-wide innovation awards program. This wouldn't have been possible without the support of many generous individuals and companies who donated and trusted us to help families during this crisis.
Q: Can I use my thank you card as a receipt when I file my taxes?
A: All donors are provided a pledge acknowledgement via letter or email upon the recording of their pledge which should be retained for your records. Donors who pay $250 or more by check or credit card over the course of the calendar year will receive an annual contribution receipt from United Way of the Piedmont shortly after the end of the calendar year. This receipt, along with bank records, may act as evidence of a donation for purpose of a tax return. Those contributing through payroll deduction in their workplace should retain as evidence their last pay stub of the tax year or Form W-2 from their employer that summarizes the amount withheld for the United Way during their tax year. Please consult your tax advisor to determine deductibility of any contributions or for specific tax advice.
Q: Aren't all United Ways the same?
A: United Ways operate locally and independently. Every United Way focuses on their community and the issues most affecting that community. One United Way's work may look very different from another's. United Way of the Piedmont is a local organization, making local impact. Dollars raised here, stay here. UWP is the leader in financial stability in Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties. The programs and initiatives UWP funds are focused on achieving our Bold Goals that are unique to the needs of our three-county footprint. Therefore the programs we invest in are not the same as any other United Way.
Q: What is United Way Worldwide?
A: United Way Worldwide is the national voluntary membership organization for over 1,800 independent local United Way organizations across the country and globe.
United Way of the Piedmont is an independent organization governed by a local Board of Directors who assume responsibility for the integrity and stewardship of our operations.
Q: How much of my money goes to pay overhead?
A: Good management practices, volunteer participation, in-kind donations, and United Way’s tradition of efficiency in raising resources mean each donated dollar is maximized to make the most impact. We’re one of the most cost-effective charitable organizations you will find, according to standards set by national charitable watchdog organizations.
Our operating costs cover the essential functions for any successful business, such as marketing, fundraising, and accounting. Without these expenses, we would not be able to effectively and sustainably operate. Since costs fluctuate from year to year, per UWW best practices, we utilize a 3-year average of operating cost, which is currently 10%.
We encourage you to assess our performance through our transparency, governance, leadership, finances, and results. You can find more information on GuideStar and Charity Navigator.
Q: How does an agency get on your list to receive contributions?
A: Through our Community Investment Process, United Way of the Piedmont provides results-oriented funding to 60 nonprofit agencies in Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union counties.
Local agencies are given the opportunity to submit Letters of Intent, which present an agency’s interest in applying for funding. Approved agencies then submit applications for funding. After thorough evaluation by dedicated community volunteers, funding recommendations are made and are approved by our Board of Directors.
Greatest consideration for funding is given to agencies whose programs align with our funding priorities in education, financial stability, and health. All funded programs must demonstrate proven results and meet the highest standards of accountability.
Q: What does United Way of the Piedmont do and why is that important?
A: United Way of the Piedmont brings local nonprofits, businesses, and community members together to tackle the biggest challenges facing our community. We go beyond temporary fixes to create lasting change. We move the needle on the biggest, most complex issues our community faces: generational poverty, quality education for our kids, and access to healthcare when we need it most. These are issues that affect all of us, and it will take all of us—uniting—to build the community we want to see here in Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties.
Q: Why should I give to United Way instead of directly to another charity?
A: United Way makes your dollars work harder. We look for innovative and dynamic ways to respond to problems that no single agency, donor, or volunteer in our community can do alone. You can donate to United Way of the Piedmont with confidence that your money is invested wisely in programs that get the greatest results and meet the highest levels of accountability. In addition to our investments, we leverage volunteerism, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration to address our community’s challenges at every level. One powerful belief guides our work: It takes all parts of a community working together to create real, measurable change.
Q: What does your CEO get paid?
A: Click here to view our IRS form 990 including CEO salary information and financial information. United Way of the Piedmont’s Board of Directors reviews the CEO’s performance annually, recommends and approves merit increases or salary adjustments as appropriate.
Q: I live in a different county; should I still give through United Way of the Piedmont?
You can direct your donation to support the county where you work or the county where you live. There are many programs that cross county lines and serve individuals from surrounding counties. If you wish to designate your gift to United Way in the county where you live, simply request a donor choice card.
Q: I've never used United Way services; why should I give?
A: Education, crime, domestic violence, access to health care, emergency assistance in times of crisis—these concerns affect everyone in a community. There are no religious or economic boundaries. When our community improves, all of our residents benefit. United Way funded services are community-wide, reaching beyond the needs of just one demographic. A gift to United Way is an expression of care, concern and commitment for your community.
Q: I designated my gift. When will the agency receive it?
A: To minimize administrative costs and comply with United Way Worldwide Standard M guidelines, designations are paid on a set schedule based on when the payment is received from the donor, in the case of cash or cash equivalent gifts, or from the company in the case of payroll deduction pledges. Payments received July–September are paid out in October; October-December are paid in February; January–March are paid in April; and April–June are paid in July. It is necessary for United Way to collect pledge and gift payments before disbursing them to maintain a positive cash flow. If your designation should have been paid according to this schedule and has not, contact the agency to verify that they have signed and returned the Patriot Act Compliance Form. This form must be signed annually and if it is not on file, United Way cannot legally release the funds.
Q: Who determines how much money United Way funded agency programs receive?
A: Through our Community Impact Fund, United Way of the Piedmont is able to provide needed funding to programs offered by local nonprofit agencies. Councils of trained volunteers review applications, conduct site visits, and participate in a Q&A session with the agencies applying for funds within each of the 3 priority areas. The volunteers score, rank and deliberate on the effectiveness of the programs and decide how to invest based on measurable outcomes and program results. The final allocation decisions are approved by our Board.
Q: Someone I know didn't receive help from an agency supported by United Way. Why?
Perhaps the person did not meet the agency’s criteria for receiving assistance or maybe there was a lack of funds available. Our desire is to ensure that when someone is in a time of crisis or need that the appropriate programs and services are available. Many times financial constraints are the barrier. That is why investing in the community through United Way is so important. If there is a current need for assistance, please dial 2-1-1 for referral assistance.
Q: Does United Way of the Piedmont fund Planned Parenthood?
A: No. All United Ways are separate legal entities whose local volunteers set their policies and funding decisions according to its community’s priorities. United Way of the Piedmont does not have a funding relationship with Planned Parenthood in any way.
