What does the United Way do?
In today’s complex world, it often takes more than just one person, agency or program to make a big and lasting difference in people’s lives. United Way brings together social service agencies, business, government, labour, schools, institutions and citizens to address the immediate needs of our community and to create long-term change. Our strong partnerships enable us to leverage existing resources and find real solutions for today’s toughest community issues. By resources, we mean not solely money - but people, ideas and collaborations that all interrelate in supporting community. United Way’s work is grounded in an in-depth knowledge and understanding of our community.
How are funds distributed?
United Way has an efficient Community Investment Committee that depends on trained volunteers to allocate funds to programs with proven results and performance. Through the ‘Review Process’, United Way volunteers make funding recommendations based on an evaluation key that looks at factors such as historical performance, board strength, program outcomes and overal agency capacity. The primary task of review volunteers is to ensure that donor dollars are being used effectively and efficiently.
What makes an organization eligible for funding?
In order to be eligible for United Way funding, an organization must be non-profit, charitable and have a clearly stated purpose and function within the social service and community health sector: The organization must:
- Be incorporated and registered as a charitable organization under the Canada Income Tax Act
- Have a voluntary Board of Directors
- Operate programming in the human or social services areas that does not duplicate an existing program.
- Operate in St.Catharines and District
- United Way cannot fund mandated government services; programs in the arts, culture, heritage or the environment; individual, religious or political activities.
- United Way does not fund capital program costs.
How many agencies does United Way fund?
United Way funds 68 programs in St.Catharines and District. They form a network of care for over 152,000 people in our community.
How much money has United Way of St. Catharines and District invested into the community?
Since 1953, United Way has invested over $78 million dollars into the community.
Are raising funds and investing in programs United Way's only functions?
While raising and strategically investing funds makes up a significant portion of what we do, it is not our only function.
We provide leadership and support to the non-profit sector by providing Outcome Measurement training.
We fund innovative solutions to community priorities through annual Innovation Grants.
Since 2003 United Way has initiated and coordinated the ‘Backpacks for Kids’ program.
United Way helps facilicate the Enbridge Winter Warmth program and co-ordinates the delivery of Day of Caring® and Community Wheels programs..
Does United Way depend on government funding?
No. United Way does not receive government funding. However, many United Way funded agencies do receive government support for specific programs. With government cutbacks however, United Way dollars have become the only stable funding source for many agencies, some include Big Brothers Big Sisters, Distress Centre and Community Care. We continue to work with our agencies to help them cope in this changing environment.
How are agencies assessed to receive funding?
Agencies are evaluated on program and organization standards. The organization needs to demonstrate that the program/activity they are requesting funding for meets a need in the community, that their proposed programs/activities are effective in responding to that need, and whether they are achieving desired outcomes for those being served and the community as a whole. The organization must also demonstrate appropriate practices around organizational capacity, management and financial accountability.
Why should I give to United Way rather than to a single agency?
Many people want to help their community, but are not sure where to give their money or what the most pressing needs are. United Way keeps abreast of current needs and invests that support where it is needed most.
Also, when you give to United Way, you are achieving greater impact by combining your support with others - your gift supports the combined efforts of a network of programs that provide people comprehensive care where and when it's needed. United Way reduces costly and time-consuming fundraising efforts for agencies so their time can be spent focusing on what they do best. In fact, United Way raises funds far more cost efficiently than most agencies can for themselves. We analyze community needs and invest for impact. These ‘impacts’ are communicated through United Way.
What does the United Way logo mean?
The United Way logo is a ‘helping hand’ and it’s used by United Way organizations around the world. The rainbow represents hope for a better future. The centre image is the universal symbol of humankind and shows that the United Way cares about everyone. The hand represents all the services and programs that support our local communities. Help, Service, Hope – this is the United Way.
Does United Way invest in the same programs every year?
Our funding process allows for agencies to receive funding for three years. After that time, they must reapply. This funding process allows agencies to plan ahead and work towards long term goals and initiatives.
New programs are eligible for funding provided their program fits the priority for that year. For example, in 2010 programs that fit the ‘Nurturing Independence’ priority can apply for funding. In 2011, programs that fit the priority of ‘Building Communities’ can apply.
Alternatively, one time Innovation Grants are allocated each fall to programs that are new, that promote partnership and that address important community needs.
Why do some agencies have their own fundraising drives?
No agency receives all of its funding from United Way. Agencies are encouraged to find funding from various sources, including their own fundraising initiatives. When agencies need to undertake a major capital expense they may conduct their own capital fundraising drive. However, we encourage agencies to consult with United Way with regard to timing and fundraising methods used, especially during United Way’s campaign from September to early December.
When was United Way formed?
The first United Way was created in Denver, Colorado in 1887. In St.Catharines and District the first United Way was founded in 1953.
Are there other United Way-Centraides across Canada?
Yes. There are 124 local United Ways - Centraides in Canada. They are autonomous organizations that build upon the strength of volunteers and voluntary action by engaging the whole community for the benefit of the whole community. They are governed by local Board of Directors who, with other volunteers and staff, help to build caring communities and respond to a broad range of human needs on a national scale. They provide direct financial support to more than 7,000 funded agencies and provide funding to an additional 10,000 organizations through donor directed giving.
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