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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is required when conducting a United Way campaign?

A: Typically, companies offer their associates the opportunity to give through payroll deduction or a one-time donation. We can tailor campaigns to meet the needs of individual companies.

Q: Who decides where the contributions go?

A: Community volunteers, knowledgeable of local needs, study and monitor the agencies and programs to make sure all monies are invested where they will do the most good.

Q: How can I get my business involved in a United Way campaign?

A: We welcome new workplace campaigns and would love to come and speak with you about how to become involved and participate in the annual campaign. Please call the development staff at 615-443-1871.

Q: Who do I call if I need help?

A: Throughout Middle Tennessee, you can dial 2-1-1 (or out of area call 800-318-9335), for assistance from trained professionals who will refer you to agencies who can help. You can also go to the Partner Agency page of our website to locate information for a particular agency. Please feel free to call any of these agencies for assistance if you are in need.

Q: If I work outside of the Wilson County and Upper Cumberland service area, but I participate in a workplace campaign, how can I be sure my money will go to fund my local community?

A: If you work outside of the Wilson County and Upper Cumberland service area, simply write the name of the county where you wish your money to be directed on your United Way pledge card in the designation space provided. By writing the name of the county you wish your funds to be designated on your pledge card, you can ensure your gift will be used to help your local community.

Q: Does United Way of America set the policy for local United Ways?

A: Each United Way is separate from one another and has its own local, volunteer Board of Directors that makes decisions about what best meets the community’s unique needs. (FYI) There are approximately 1,400 United Ways across the country. Each has its own mission and regulations.

Q: Does United Way fund Planned Parenthood?

A: United Way of Wilson County and the Upper Cumberland is not a funding partner of Planned
Parenthood.

Q: My employees live in several different counties. Why United Way of Wilson County and the Upper Cumberland?

A: Your employees may give to the community of their choice by simply indicating their wishes in writing on their pledge card. You can ensure your gift will be used to help your local community.

Q: Why does Wilson County and the Upper Cumberland need United Way?

A: Statistics show, not every local resident is blessed with prosperity. There are still many areas in our service area where people don’t have easy access to help for their needs. As the communities continues to grow, so does the number of requests for services. Anyone of us can face disease, natural disasters or crises at any time.

Q: What is the easiest way to contribute?

A: Payroll deduction is by far the most convenient method of contribution. A small amount is taken from your paycheck each pay day, allowing you to make a small contribution each week that can make a big difference in the course of a year.

Q: What if I don’t want my money to go to a certain agency?

A: Not every agency appeals to every donor, but all agencies have met the meticulous standards of our United Way, and the programs we fund meet needs within our four impact areas. If you like, you can designate to any one agency that fits your needs.

Q: Are all United Ways the same?

A: There are approximately 1,400 United Ways across the country that exist in their respective communities. These United Ways exist to build partnerships and leverage resources to create plans for long-lasting community change. Though United Ways share a logo and have similar missions, each United Way is independently incorporated and is led by local staff and volunteers. The work of each United Way is determined by its community needs.

Q: Why should I give to the United Way?

A: Charitable giving is a personal and voluntary decision, and the United Way encourages you to do what is most comfortable to you. A gift to the United Way is an investment that benefits the entire community, not just one program, issue, or population.