What does United Way do?

United Way is a local, autonomous, nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives of residents in our community. It is governed by a local volunteer Board of Directors responsible for determining policy and overseeing every aspect of the organization. United Way conducts an annual fundraising campaign and invests those funds in programs and agencies that have a proven ability to impact lives. No other non-profit organization makes a more positive impact on your whole community than your United Way.

I own a small company; can I conduct a United Way campaign?

Of course you can. United Way of Boone County encourages all companies in our community to get involved in changing the community for the better. One way to do this is by allowing your employees to provide financial resources. We need everyone to make a difference. If you would like to conduct an employee campaign, contact United Way of Boone County at (815) 544-3144 or visit our How to LIVE UNITED page on our website for tips on conducting a successful workplace campaign.

Can I specify which agency receives my gift?

United Way of Boone County honors designation requests to member agencies and other United Ways outside our community. However, a gift to the Community Fund ensures that funds raised during the campaign go where they will do the most good. United Way of Boone County cannot accept designations to non-member agencies.

Who decides how much money each agency receives?

Each year, United Way of Boone County enlists the support of volunteers representing our community to carefully review agency programs that meet identified needs in the community. Volunteers spend time studying the needs of the community, reviewing funding proposals, conducting site visits, reviewing program performance and make funding recommendations to United Way of Boone County's volunteer Board of Directors.

I don't benefit, why should I give?

You or a family member may have already used the services of a United Way funded agency without realizing it. People from all backgrounds benefit from American Red Cross disaster services; Scouting programs; youth mentoring programs; assistance with shopping or household chores for an older parent; and many more services provided by United Way partner agencies.

Does United Way support the Boy Scouts?

United Way of Boone County proudly supports the valuable services of the local Boy Scouts Council. United Way of Boone County does not take a position on the membership policy of The Boys Scouts of America and we have a long-standing policy prohibiting discrimination on the part of United Way or agencies funded by United Way as determined by federal, state, and local laws.

How does an organization become a United Way of Boone County member agency?

To qualify for consideration as a member agency, an agency must be recognized as a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization, led by a volunteer Board of Directors, and provide human services to residents of Boone County. If an agency meets these basic requirements, then they must complete and submit an application which can be downloaded from United Way of Boone County's website. To be considered for the next funding phase, a completed application must be submitted by February 1st.

Why isn't my favorite agency a member of United Way of Boone County?

United Way maintains an open door policy with respect to an agency applying for admission. An agency may not be admitted because they may not meet the qualifications, another agency is providing the same service, or because the volunteer Board of Directors did not feel the agency was prepared to be admitted.

Are United Way's financial records subject to external audit?

Yes. United Way of Boone County has an audit performed annually by an independent CPA firm. The results of the audit are presented to the Board of Directors for their review and approval.

Are donations to United Way tax deductible?

Yes. United Way of Boone County is a tax-exempt, charitable organization recognized under section 501 (c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code, and all donations are deductible. However, if you pay $250 or more at any one time, you are required to have written substantiation of the donation before claiming it as a deduction on your tax return. United Way automatically provides substantiation of such donations at the end of each year.