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Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I invest in United Way of
Fort Smith Area?
A. United Way of Fort Smith Area (UWFSA) is
committed to making the kinds of smart choices that can
make our community a better place for all of us to live
and work. We use our expertise and community connections
to support thousands of people throughout our region in
ways that make a genuine difference in their lives. We
use our time and resources as efficiently as we can, to
do as much as we can and to help as many people in as
many ways as we can.
Why am I asked to give to United
Way in my workplace?
A. United Way has always enjoyed a strong
partnership with the business community. Organizations
that host a workplace campaign understand that we all
share a responsibility for the people and neighborhoods
where we live, work and raise our families. Employees in
our annual workplace campaign donate 54% to our campaign
and inspire many volunteer hours that contribute to real
and lasting progress throughout the community.
Why should I give to United Way in
addition to my other charities?
A. Everyone should give to the
charities that are closest to their hearts. But a gift
to United Way will extend charitable giving by investing
in the needs of the six counties UWFSA serves.
Why should I give to United Way
instead of a direct service agency?
A. Again, we encourage people to give to all their
charities including direct service agencies. However,
United Way bases its funding allocations on a rigorous
process that demands accountability from its partners.
And we employ our resources and expertise to work
closely with our partners so that together we will
achieve real and lasting results in the communities we
serve.
Who decides how much money goes to
each program or service?
A. People just like you! Trained volunteers work on
year-round committees called Allocation Councils to
study our most serious problems and the best way to
remedy them. Those volunteer groups decide where to
allocate the funds, assess community needs through an
extensive process and they then direct resources — money
and volunteers — to the area where there are existing or
emerging needs. United Way’s board of directors makes
final funding decisions.
Does UWFSA provide funding to the
Boy Scouts?
A. Yes. UWFSA continues funding programs of the Boy
Scouts. The Allocation Council believes hundreds of
local boys greatly benefit from Scouting’s proven record
of safe, structured programs.
What does United Way do with my
donation?
A. Annual campaign contributions are distributed
each year through a vigorous allocation process. United
Way’s mission is is to improve lives by connecting
people and resources in our six-county area. We’re
focused on critical issues like education, income and
health. 100% of your donation stays right here in the
six-county area. United Way can be this efficient
because volunteer support keeps costs to a minimum.
Does UWFSA support abortion or fund
Planned Parenthood?
A. No. UWFSA does not fund programs that deliver
abortion services nor has it in the past. Planned
Parenthood is not a member agency, so it receives no
allocations or undesignated contributions.
How does an organization apply to
receive funding from UWFSA?
A. When resources allow, UWFSA invites applications
from organizations that demonstrate measurable results
in addressing key issues our communities have identified
as most important. United Way also helps to meet basic
needs, such as food and shelter. |
