Frequently Asked Questions about United Way

United Way of Natrona County means a lot of things to a lot of people

1) What is United Way?

• United Way of Natrona County is made up of donors, partners and volunteers discovering and responding to crucial needs in our community.
• Finding resources to meet those needs and following up to make sure the work gets done.
• United Way is an organized, efficient and accountable system committed to advancing the common good of all.

2) Why is there a United Way?

• For more than 55 years, United Way has been the community solutions provider.
• Donors have the confidence that their human service dollars go the furthest to do the most good, supporting many programs through one effort.
• Local volunteers use their knowledge of community problems to distribute funds where the needs are greatest.
• To make the best use of contributor dollars, United Way holds agencies accountable for the programs they run, only funding programs with good results.

3) How much should I give?

• Only you can decide how much you can give.
• United Way offers several giving and recognition opportunities.
• Payroll deduction makes giving easier.

4) What about accountability?

• An important element in United Ways comprehensive partner review is having sound fiscal management.
• Oversight includes review of annual financial reports and a certified audit and review of agency budget.

5) Doesn’t the government take care of these health and human service problems?

• Human service delivery is a shared responsibility of both the public and nonprofit sectors.
• Recent public sector budget cuts and increasing costs for fuel and food are resulting in even more people needing assistance.
• Your gift through United Way is increasingly important because it stays in the community to address local needs.

6) Why should I give to United Way of Natrona County when I already give to my favorite charity?

• Many of us have a favorite charity for which we volunteer and support financially. A gift through United Way recognizes problems experienced by individuals; families and neighborhoods are rarely simple.
• Difficult problems require complex solutions which frequently involve multiple partner agencies providing program support to create lasting change.
• When you give through United Way, you are supporting local comprehensive solutions.