Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does United Way of the Piedmont do and why is that important?
A: Everything we do at United Way of the Piedmont is directed at meeting our Bold Goal: to increase the number of self-sufficient families in our community by 11,000.
We help families directly through initiatives like our Community Resource Coordinators, the Homeless Prevention Fund, and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
We also help families indirectly by making significant investments in local nonprofit programs that are moving the needle on increasing self-sufficiency. We make these funding decisions through our Community Investment Process.
Q: How does the Community Investment Process work?
A: This process is led by issue area experts and community leaders who serve on one of five Vision Councils. These volunteers review applications for funding from local nonprofit programs, conduct site visits, and make final funding recommendations to United Way's Board of Directors. Funding recommendations are carefully considered and made based on organizational strength and program performance. Once these recommendations are approved, we get the immense privilege of granting local programs dollars that will advance their work to help families thrive.
For 2023-2025, United Way of the Piedmont is investing $1,485,356 annually in 75 local programs.
Q: How does Donor Choice work?
A: United Way of the Piedmont is a direct service organization, not just a fundraiser. We raise money for programs like Community Resource Coordinators and VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), as well as other special community initiatives like the COVID-19 Relief Fund or the Homeless Prevention Fund. We also invest in over 75 local programs in Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties (see www.uwpiedmont.org/fundedprograms for list of currently funded programs) through the Community Investment Process, where volunteers review applications from local organizations and make funding recommendations. By giving directly to United Way of the Piedmont, you are ensuring that your dollars are going where they are most needed. However, if you would still like to designate your gift to another organization, United Way of the Piedmont provides this service as a convenience to our donors. You may designate your donation by fully completing the form below. Please read all of the following information that applies to a designated gift:
- A minimum gift of $25 is required per designated agency and a 10% processing fee applies.
- The agency must be eligible to receive tax-exempt donations and must maintain anti-terrorism compliance. If the agency does not qualify, cannot be located, or the designation does not meet the minimum amount, the pledge will be directed to the Community Impact Fund.
- Designations are paid quarterly based on when the payment is received from the donor in the case of cash or cash equivalent gifts, or from the donor's employer in the case of payroll deduction pledges. United Way must collect donation payments before = disbursing them to designated agencies. Therefore, designations may take up to 18 months for the first payment to be received by the agency.
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: I live in a different county; should I still give through United Way of the Piedmont?
A: Donations default to the county in which they are given, typically your workplace; however, there are many programs that cross county lines and serve individuals from surrounding counties. If you wish to designate your gift to a county other than the default, you may select that county during the designation step of the online giving process.
Q: Someone I know didn't receive help from an agency supported by United Way. Why?
A: 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: 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: 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.
