FAQ

In 2010-11, there will be 19 Partner Agencies of the GLUW and five initiatives: Home Repairs, INFOline of Gregg County, Legal Assistance, VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and FamilyWize Prescription Cards.

$ 1,300,000

The GLUW administrative and overhead costs for 2010-2011 will be approximately 12%. This figure is much lower than most nonprofit organizations. According to the Better Business Bureau, you should make sure you are giving to organizations that have an overhead of 30% or less. GLUW is able to keep costs low because of a large number of volunteers and a small staff.

The value of giving through United Way is the accountability we provide to our donors through the evaluations of our partner agencies' programs. If you have a favorite agency, please give to that agency in addition to your GLUW contribution.

If you live outside the Longview area and would like to give to your local United Way, you may designate to that organization. Designations to GLUW partner agencies are permitted, but are included in that agency's allocations. The United Way's goal is to help the entire community, not just one agency. Your GLUW contribution helps fund 37 programs, as well as Home Repairs, INFOline of Gregg County, Legal Assistance, VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program) and FamilyWize Prescription Cards.

Local volunteers make sure your donation stays local and is well spent. Volunteers monitor all programs to ensure accountability. GLUW is also monitored through the Standards of Excellence by the United Way Worldwide and by annual audited financial statements.

United Way Worldwide (previously United Way of America) offers support and training to local United Ways. It is a trade organization that provides national advertising and national grants. There are 1300 local United Ways across the country. GLUW is autonomous and independent of other local United Ways. Local volunteers make all the decisions for GLUW.

Your gift works right here in your community. Through United Way you help more than one person or one organization. Your United Way is working toward long-term solutions for community problems. Through GLUW your donation can make the greatest impact. Volunteers are analyzing needs, programs and results to make sure your gift is being focused on what matters most in our community.

Giving to United Way is a personal decision. Your United Way investment is maximized by the investment of others. Payroll deductions make it easy to give. A Care Share pledge of one hour’s pay per month or 1% of your annual salary can be used as a guideline for your contribution. Electronic transfer is also available for those who do not have access to payroll deduction. Your gift, no matter what size, will be truly appreciated and will make a significant difference in the lives of your neighbors.