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4. How much of United Way of Trumbull County’s dollars go to United Way Worldwide?                                                                                                         As a proud member of an international network in 1,800 communities around the world, we pay member dues of less than 1% of our operating budget.  In return, we benefit from receiving national advertising, research, access to best practices, advocacy efforts, government relations and continued education.  While a member of United Way Worldwide, United Way of Trumbull County is an agency governed by local volunteers who understand the needs of our community, and the vast resources available to meet those needs.

 

5. How much of my contribution actually goes to program services?

Administrative and fundraising costs are kept very low because of the large number of volunteers involved in raising and allocating funds. This allows 80 cents of every dollar to be used for programming. Without the United Way support, agencies would need to spend more of their own money and energy on fundraising efforts.

 

6. What are United Way of Trumbull County’s overhead expenses?

United Way of Trumbull County’s overhead cost for last fiscal year was 18.96%, which supports operating and fundraising expenses; as well as, training, compliance, infrastructure, staffing and systems support to ensure sustainability.  Overhead is not a measure of a charity’s performance, but it does play a role in ensuring our accountability.  As a point of reference, the National Charities Bureau suggests a 23% administrative cost as a baseline for non-profit organizations, and the national average for all charities is 34%.

 

7.  What is United Way of Trumbull County’s policy regarding the release of financial information?

United Way of Trumbull County’s financial data is public information and can be found on our website. Look for our Tax Exempt and Financial Filing Documents page.

 

8. Why should I give when I can only afford a small amount?

Every single dollar makes a difference! Giving in proportion to your capacity provides you with an opportunity to provide services to those in need. Most workplaces offer payroll deduction, which spreads your pledge payments throughout the year or you can request billing from the United Way office. In lieu of giving a financial gift, advocating and volunteering your time is just as important and well appreciated.

 

9. By becoming an advocate or volunteer for United Way, will I feel pressured to give?

The United Way of Trumbull County is strongly opposed to any type of coercion used to solicit funds. We strongly believe that giving to United Way is a personal decision, and a decision that should be made from the heart.  Our fund-raising success is dependent on how much potential donors know and understand about the United Way of Trumbull County and the good work of our office and partnering agencies. Whether one gives and how much one gives are personal decisions. Advocating and volunteering your time is just as important and well appreciated.

 

10. How does an agency become a partner of United Way of Trumbull County?

First, any agency requesting admission to your local United Way must be a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization. Member agencies must meet strict standards of governance, program effectiveness and financial accountability.  They are evaluated regularly as part of a volunteer-driven certification process. See HERE for agency financial requirements.

                                 

11. Who can receive help from a United Way of Trumbull County agency?

Anyone is eligible for assistance if they meet the criteria within our partner agency’s requirements. If you are unsure as to what agency to contact, residents are encouraged to take advantage of our 2-1-1 service.  By calling 2-1-1 (or 330-393-1565), you can get immediate answers and/or directed to the agency that can service the following needs 24/7:

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• Crisis Intervention

• Disaster Assistance

• Domestic Violence

• Emotional Support

• Family & Parent Resources

• Food, Shelter and Clothing

• Health Assistance

• LifeLines Access Center

• Relationship Issues

• Senior Services

• Substance Abuse

• Suicide Hotline

• Utility Assistance

• And much more…

 

The 2-1-1 number is not accessible on all phones.  As an alternative to reach Trumbull 2-1-1, call 330-393-1565.  United Way of Trumbull County’s office is accessible Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 330-369-1000.

 

12. What is 2-1-1?

2-1-1 is an easy to remember three-digit telephone number assigned by the Federal Communications Commission for the purpose of providing quick and easy access to information about health and human services. Professional Information and Referral Specialists work with callers to assess their needs, determine their options and provide appropriate programs/services, give support, intervene in crisis situations and advocate for the caller as needed.

 

13.  What types of non-member agencies are eligible to receive donor designations?

Organizations must have a 501 (c) (3) designation from the IRS, work in the areas of health and human service and provide a minimum of one-year record of service.  To donate to an agency, your gift must be a minimum of $50.  Federations, religious congregations, government units and capital drives are not eligible.  If the organization is not eligible, United Way will review other options with the donor.

 

14. Can I give to the Community Impact Fund, but exclude a certain agency?

Yes, whether donating online or completing a printed pledge card, you can specify which agency should not receive your gift.

 

15. Can my money be designated to a particular agency?

You are welcome to designate your gift to a specific health and human service agency with a gift of $50 or more. 

 

16. What records should a donor keep to meet the new IRS rules?

United Way of Trumbull County is a 501 (c ) (3) Campaign donors should keep a copy of the completed pledge form for their tax records.  They will also need a copy of their pay stub, W-2, or similar document showing the amount withheld and paid.  United Way will send a receipt for all cash, check, credit card and stock donations over $250.  Please consult your tax advisor for more information. 

 

17. What should I do if I have other questions not found in this FAQ?

Please contact the United Way of Trumbull County office at 330-369-1000 or via email info @unitedwaytrumbull.org.