Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is the Community Impact Agenda?

United Way of Greater Kansas City is engaging the community to establish a new, strategic plan for our work. Called a Community Impact Agenda, the plan will identify priority community issues in the Greater Kansas City region that will then be used to prioritize United Way resources. We want to mobilize not only dollars, but also people’s time, talents and expertise to achieve lasting results on priority community issues.

How was the agenda developed?

The process is being led by a volunteer committee. United Way engaged more than 400 community stakeholders as part of its process to learn where there is compelling interest to improve lives and strengthen communities across the region. We gathered viewpoints from donors, consumers, community leaders, partner agencies, area foundations, United Way volunteers and others. More than 2,500 community members also shared their opinions through a community survey. In addition to this feedback, volunteers and United Way staff used a number of other tools, including research and other data, in the development process.

What are the benefits of developing the agenda?

United Way wants to strengthen its investment in measurable, tangible results. The Impact Agenda will set goals and outcomes on focused community priorities. We want donors to see that they are making a difference, and that there is a tangible return on their investment. UWGKC is committed to investing its limited resources where they will produce measurable, positive results and have the greatest impact on community-wide priorities.

How will this affect United Way funded programs?

The good news for agencies is that there can be long-term benefits from United Way's transformation to community impact. United Way is committed to funding the highest quality programs needed to address our priority areas. The work on program outcomes will strengthen the human service system and make a more compelling case for support based on real results. Many of our local agencies have been working for several years to improve the quality of their programs as well as to better align them with the community's critical issues. These agencies are already in a great position for the move to community impact. United Way will continue to work with other agencies to help them see how their programs may be better aligned with the Community Impact Agenda.

Agencies will remain an integral part of United Way. Agency staff are often the experts on the very issues that we are trying to impact, and the services that many of the agencies provide will be needed to create the long-lasting changes we seek.

What are the next steps for community impact?

Now that the priority outcome areas have been identified, the second phase of the planning process will begin. The second phase will again engage the community to help identify the specific strategies that will help reach the desired goals for each priority outcome area.

We will begin using the Impact Agenda as a guide for investment of resources in 2009 with United Way's Impact Agenda having even more impact on funding decisions in 2010 and beyond.

Why should I give to United Way rather than to a single agency?

One gift through United Way helps more people in more ways than a gift to a single agency. By donating to United Way's Community Care Fund, you support a network of services that together serve the entire community. For instance, a homeless family often needs services beyond finding shelter. By supporting United Way, you support all the services a family needs to make it on their own - food, affordable housing, tutoring, mentoring, job training, child care and after-school programs, elder services, etc.

When you choose to invest in your community, you may not have the time or resources to research where your charitable dollars would be best spent. When you choose United Way to manage your gift, you are guaranteed experience, accountability and effectiveness. Our management ensures that the charities you support through United Way adhere to sound fiscal policies and provide necessary results-oriented services.

What if I already give to other organizations?

There are many organizations that we individually support: our alma maters, churches, schools, environmental organizations or personal charities of choice. At United Way, we respect those commitments and ask you that you extend your charitable giving by investing in the needs of the greater community. This could include investments in lesser-known agencies that may not have high visibility or public awareness.

I never use agency services, and I don't know anyone else who does.
Why should I give?

You never know when you or someone you know may need a United Way service. Job loss, loss of a loved one, illness, accidents, disabilities, family problems, natural disasters, mental disorders and the problems of growing up and growing old can affect anyone, regardless of ethnicity or income level. And even if you never need a United Way agency, it benefits you and your family to live in a healthy community.

How much of my contribution goes to people who really need help?

We take the business of investing and managing your gift very seriously. We attack the bottom line, reducing administrative costs as much as possible. Our administrative and fundraising costs are just 11 percent, which far exceeds Better Business Bureau guidelines, in part due to the dedication of thousands of volunteers. Our extremely low overhead ensures that the vast majority of your money goes to people in need.

Can I specify which United Way agency receives my pledge?

Yes, United Way honors designations can be made to any qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency providing health and human services in the Kansas City area. To do so, ask for a Donor Designation Form. Please keep in mind that agencies are not accountable to United Way for gifts designated to them. Religious, arts, environmental, educational, animal rights, civic organizations, foundations, fraternal or political organizations are not eligible unless their primary mission is health and human services. Please click here to read United Way's complete Donor Designation Policy.

However, we encourage donors to donate directly to United Way's Community Care Fund because United Way is able to make your contribution go further by leveraging every dollar. You also have the opportunity to designate your gift to one of United Way's impact areas, so it still helps throughout the community, but funds programs closest to your heart.

Is giving to the United Way voluntary?

Giving time or money is a personal matter and completely voluntary. Local employers endorse the United Way campaign because it is one of the best ways to meet community needs, but your gift is your decision.

What should I do if I need help?

Dial 2-1-1 to reach a United Way 2-1-1 call specialist that can identify your individual needs and refer you to the right agency that can help you. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week year-round. If, for any reason, your phone does not allow you to dial 2-1-1, you may also call (816) 474-5112.

Does United Way sell or trade donor information?

No. United Way maintains its own database of supporters and will not sell or trade this information to any individual or organization. Click here to view the complete privacy policy.