Frequently Asked Questions

What is United Way?
United Way of the Coastal Bend is a local non-profit organization working to bring together people and resources to improve lives within our community.

Who oversees the operations and finances of United Way of the Coastal Bend?
United Way of the Coastal Bend is governed by a Board of Directors. This Board is comprised of local business and community leaders and reflects both the professional and cultural diversity of our area. Daily operations are carried out by a professional staff that works closely with the volunteers. The operating budget of United Way of the Coastal Bend is audited annually by an independent accounting firm and reviewed by the United Way Finance Committee and Board of Directors.

How does an agency become a United Way partner?
All agency partners are local 501(C)(3) non-profit agencies. Programs receiving funding by the United Way of the Coastal Bend must produce measurable outcomes and effective results which positively impact the community. In addition, programs must work to meet the current needs of the Coastal Bend.

How do I know that United Way partner agencies will use the funds responsibly?
Panels comprised of volunteers from the community review agencies' proposals for funding to identify strengths in program management, client outcomes and community impact. Allocations of funds to selected programs are completed based on the proposal review and on each year's campaign.

Why not just give directly to the program providers?
United Way regularly completes studies of the community to identify the most pressing needs. This information is used when looking at a program's outcomes to see which programs are best meeting these needs in the community. Donating to United Way ensures that your dollars are going to each of the areas that will make the greatest impact and that a comprehensive network of care is available in our community. In addition, contributions to United Way provide agencies with funds they can rely on and plan for, rather than depending on sporadic contributions.

I never use United Way programs so why should I give?
United Way funded services help everyone. Your gift helps ensure that United Way services are available when needed. While United Way programs help homeless and at-risk individuals they also help people just like you. Your United Way contribution could go to a program used by your co-workers, your friends, your neighbors, and your family. People with mental health issues, childcare needs, alcohol and drug abuse problems, troubled teens and aging parents. United Way services are available to all. There is a good chance you've used a United Way program and didn't even realize it. United Way supports a wide variety of programs including Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, YMCA, YWCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, American Red Cross, and many more.

Does United Way of the Coastal Bend send money to United Way of America to fund national agencies or agencies in other towns?
No! United Way of the Coastal Bend is affiliated with United Way of America. This affiliation entitles us to advertisement and promotional materials and services from United Way of America to support our local effort. United Way of America does not fund agencies or human-service programs.

How can I volunteer?
United Way of the Coastal Bend uses volunteers to review agencies, raise funds, and serve on various organizational committees.  If you are interested in other types of direct, hands-on volunteer work, United Way of the Coastal Bend hosts quarterly Day of Caring events that offer a variety of work projects throughout the Coastal Bend.  More information about volunteering for United Way can be found on our Volunteer page.

Can United Way accept a planned gift?
Yes! For more information, call the United Way office 361-882-2529.