General
WHAT IS UNITED WAY?
The mission of United Way of Pueblo County is to "develop donor resources to enhance the quality of life for the people of Pueblo County." United Way unites a diverse group of citizens and agencies in a community-wide effort to provide human services in the most efficient and impactful way. It collaborates with various social service and health agencies across 17 counties across Colorado.
United Way is more than just a fundraising campaign; it represents the largest voluntary effort dedicated to supporting vital health and human service agencies right here in our community. By identifying service priorities that address future community needs, United Way ensures that services meet high performance standards through continuous evaluation.
WHO REALLY BENEFITS?
It’s rare to find someone or a family who has never benefited from a United Way agency. Anyone in need can access the support offered by these agencies, including individuals who are disabled, elderly, disaster-stricken, teenagers, or those facing emotional or marital challenges. United Way also provides access to recreational and volunteer opportunities.
One in three families benefit from United Way services, such as senior care, food assistance, rent or mortgage support, mental health counseling, and daycare. In times of tragedy, United Way agencies are there to offer help. These services are designed to support people regardless of their income level. Ultimately, we all benefit from living and working in a healthier, happier community.
WHY SHOULD I GIVE TO UNITED WAY?
Your gift enhances the quality of life for you, your family, your neighbors, and your entire community. It provides access to hundreds of essential health and social services that are not covered by government programs. These services help stabilize lives, reduce social challenges, promote productivity, and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of the community.
WHY SHOULD I GIVE TO UNITED WAY INSTEAD OF DIRECTLY TO AGENCIES I CHOOSE?
No single agency can address all the needs of a community. That’s why United Way supports a diverse range of agencies that provide essential services. Through thoughtful planning and coordination, United Way ensures that your donation goes further, maximizing the impact of every dollar contributed. Additionally, many employers offer payroll deduction, making it easier to spread out your pledge and potentially give more than you could with a one-time donation. Some companies also match your gift, further increasing your contribution’s impact.
HOW DO I KNOW THE MONEY IS REALLY NEEDED?
Experienced volunteers, who have a deep understanding of local needs, ensure that your gift is directed where it is most needed through our Community Fund program. In nearly every instance, they make tough decisions about balancing the needs of various agencies with what the community can reasonably support.
WHY DOES UNITED WAY ALWAYS NEED MORE MONEY?
Local United Way-supported agencies are facing several challenges and are seeking additional support. One of the most pressing issues is the reduction in government funding for social services, combined with a long-term downturn in the economy. Many believe that the nonprofit sector can deliver these services more cost-effectively, and United Way offers the platform to make that possible.
WHY HAS UNITED WAY STARTED THEIR OWN PROGRAMMING?
United Way of Pueblo County is more than just a fundraising organization; it is a vital community problem-solving resource. When specific needs arise, United Way takes proactive steps to address them. Recognizing gaps in services such as one-on-one mentoring, financial literacy, access to banking for the unbanked population, and tax assistance, United Way has stepped in to fill these voids. Programs like the United Way of Pueblo County Middle School Mentoring Program, the Financial Empowerment Center, the Bank On Pueblo County Program, and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program are shining examples of how we respond to emerging needs while ensuring we don't duplicate existing services in the community.
HOW CAN I HELP?
Volunteers stretch donated dollars. If you would like to volunteer, but don’t know where your services can do the most good, call the United Way at 225-8580. We can match you with a United Way agency that truly needs your help.
Giving
DOES UNITED WAY ALLOW COERCION IN ITS CAMPAIGN?
United Way of Pueblo County strongly opposes any form of coercion, as it goes against the core principle of voluntary giving. Your contribution to United Way is a personal decision, and the amount you choose to give is entirely up to you. We believe that no coercive actions are acceptable in the process of giving.
WHAT ABOUT THE AMOUNT I GIVE?
Your contribution is entirely your decision. United Way of Pueblo County believes that giving is a personal choice, and it is up to each individual to decide whether and how much to give. If you are one of the generous donors who contribute beyond your business's fair share giving guidelines, United Way agencies deeply appreciate your support and encourage you to continue your valuable financial contribution.
MAY I DESIGNATE MY GIFT THROUGH UNITED WAY?
Yes, our donor choice program allows contributors to designate how their donations are allocated. United Way of Pueblo County honors all designations to any legal 501(c)(3) organization. To keep administration and overhead costs low, a minimum gift of $52 per designated agency is required.
MY HUSBAND/WIFE GIVES WHERE HE/SHE WORKS. WHY SHOULD WE BOTH GIVE?
It’s important for every employed person to contribute to the United Way network of support. Many individuals rely on United Way services that are essential to maintaining their well-being and productivity. Every worker plays a role in sustaining these vital programs, which strengthen the social and economic fabric of our community and, in turn, support job stability for all wage earners.
ARE LABOR AND MANAGEMENT BOTH BEHIND THE UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN?
Yes, labor organizations and members work with management to make the campaign a success. All levels of business and labor are represented on United Way committees.
I WORK IN PUEBLO, BUT LIVE ELSEWHERE--WHERE DO I GIVE?
The United Way philosophy encourages you to give where you work. Individuals who live outside of Pueblo but earn a living here are still eligible to access services provided by United Way-supported agencies. United Way of Pueblo County focuses on supporting local agencies within the area, but if you live outside the county, you have the option to designate your gift to an organization in your own community.
WHAT IF I CAN’T AFFORD TO GIVE RIGHT NOW?
You don’t have to. Pledge your gift through payroll deduction and spread out small payments throughout the year. A small weekly amount adds up to an important part of the total campaign effort. United Way services need your year round support.
WHAT IF I LOSE MY JOB?
You will not be expected to continue your pledge payments during your period of unemployment. At the time of re-employment, you will be given the opportunity to reinstate your pledge.
Accountability
WHO CHECKS ON THE MONEY TO MAKE SURE IT IS PROPERLY SPENT AND GOES TO HELP THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST?
Experienced volunteers and UWPC staff, knowledgeable of local needs, monitor agencies and make sure your money is well spent. All funded nonprofits must adhere to guidelines and report on awarded funds.
Since most of us don’t have time to evaluate all the worthwhile causes that ask our help, the Community Support/Funding Committee volunteers serve as our representatives. They make sure the necessary services are available in our area and that those who need help most can get it.
HOW MUCH OF THE MONEY GOES TO FUNDRAISING COSTS?
14 percent goes to fundraising and administration. Compare this with other drives where much more of the actual amount raised has gone for fundraising costs. The nationally accepted standard for fundraising and administrative costs is 40 percent. United Way is the most efficient and effective way to help people. It’s planned, it’s budgeted and it’s fair to the people in the community. Less than one cent on every dollar leaves Pueblo County for United Way of America dues, as 99% stays here helping in our community.
Funding/Agencies
For a list of our funded agencies, please visit https://www.pueblounitedway.org/partners.
WHY AREN’T ALL AGENCIES INCLUDED IN THE UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN?
Those that render a needed social service may have been invited, but some have decided not to join United Way. Perhaps other agencies failed to meet standards for admission as United Way member agencies. Others have simply not been funded because the campaign has not raised enough money. Volunteers have tough decisions to make as they allocate limited dollars in a prioritized way. All not-for-profit health and human service agencies should be considered part of the campaign since donors have the option to designate their gifts to non-United Way agencies.
IS THERE A DUPLICATION OF SERVICES AMONG AGENCIES?
United Way ensures through all levels of funding that an agency must perform a unique service and meet standards that will not permit duplication. United Way funds specific programs of agencies. One key item our Community Support/Funding Committee volunteers examine is whether or not programs are necessary.
I HAVE A COMPLAINT: SOMEONE I KNOW DIDN’T RECEIVE HELP FROM A UNITED WAY AGENCY.
Get the facts...names, dates all the pertinent information...then call United Way. All complaints will be checked out thoroughly. No one who needs help is ever deliberately turned down. Over the years, we have found through careful investigation, that many complaints are usually misunderstandings that can be resolved. Occasionally, however, there are cases where an agency has been allocated only enough funds to assist a specific number of persons, and the budget simply cannot be stretched any further.
WHY DO SOME UNITED WAY AGENCIES CHARGE FEES?
Fees are generally adjusted according to ability to pay. This stretches your United Way dollars as far as possible and allows many more people to receive assistance. While resources may limit some services, no one is refused service because of inability to pay.
WHY DO UNITED WAY AGENCIES CONDUCT SEPARATE FUNDRAISING DRIVES?
United Way allocations provide only part of an agency’s budget. Therefore, agencies must raise other funds in order to provide their services. Also, since United Way funds only go toward funding programs and not administration or capital budgets, agencies conduct their own fundraising for operations and capital fund campaigns for building construction and major renovations. Dramatic growth in the United Way campaign would permit agencies to do less of their own fundraising. United Way is the most cost-effective way to support agencies.
GET THE FACTS...UNITED WAY OF PUEBLO COUNTY & PLANNED PARENTHOOD
United Way of Pueblo County is one of 1,200 local United Ways throughout the United States and operates independently and autonomously, directing our own course based on community needs. Funding decisions are based on the direction given by our governing board and allocations committee, consisting of local, knowledgeable volunteers who make funding decisions based on needs in our community. United Way Worldwide does not dictate funding to local UWs, rather assists with marketing, training, and provides support on national company campaigns.
United Way of Pueblo County does not fund Planned Parenthood. Our donors do have the right to designate their funds to legal 501c3 organizations. If an individual donor chooses to designate their own personal contribution to Planned Parenthood, United Way of Pueblo County will honor that designation as we hold donor stewardship very highly. Planned Parenthood has not requested funds nor have any United Way of Pueblo County Community Care/allocations or grant dollars been used to fund Planned Parenthood.