1. Do any United Way Board members get paid to run the organization?

Board members are strictly volunteers receiving no financial or other remuneratioin (e.g. no free attendance at events, golf tournaments, etc. ) for the work they do to support United Way. Board members are required to contribute financial to the United Way campaign although the amount is their choice.

2. I see that United Way of Toronto raises over $100 million. Why doesn't some of that money come to Milton?

Every United Way is autonomous—meaning that is in operation to assist its own residents and to fund the agencies it chooses, to meet the needs in that particular community. Each United Way in Canada conducts an annual campaign and the money raised stays in that community to help its own residents. The only exception is when those donors participating in payroll deduction choose to "Give where they live" and designate their donations back to their home community, regardless of where they work.

3. I do work out of town but want my charitable donation to support the work of the agencies in Milton. Can I still do this if I participate in a payroll plan at work?

Yes. This is called Donor Designation. Donors who work out of town can designate their donation to be directed to United Way of Milton. All you have to do is write it on your pledge card.

4. Why would I not just give my money directly to an agency?

Of course every donor has the right to this option but giving to United Way helps many agencies and programs. Also United Way assesses its agencies annually to make sure they are using the funds appropriately and our Allocations Committee select programs for funding that are relevant to the needs of the community. So by giving via United Way you can be sure your donation is effect and not being misused.

5. How do you know the agencies are using the funds in the appropriate way?

Every agency funded is "audited" by United Way on an annual basis to ensure that your donations are being used appropriately. Agencies must submit a report annually including audited financial statements and a full reporting of the number of clients served and the number of hours spent in client services.