Campaign Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the United Way Campaign?
The United Way Campaign is an annual fundraising effort that brings together local individuals, businesses, and organizations to support essential programs and services in our community. Funds raised help strengthen education, financial stability, health, and basic needs for those in Lee County.
2. Where does the money go?
Donations stay local. Contributions support vetted nonprofit partner agencies and initiatives right here in Lee County, ensuring community needs are met efficiently and effectively.
3. How is United Way different from other charities?
United Way of Lee County funds a network of programs and collaborates with local partners to address the root causes of issues in our community. Rather than supporting just one organization, a gift to United Way helps support many – making a bigger impact.
4. Can I designate my donation to a specific agency?
Yes. While we encourage giving to the overall campaign fund for the broadest reach, you may designate your gift to a specific United Way partner agency or initiative.
5. Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. United Way of Lee County is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
6. How do I donate?
You can give through payroll deduction (if offered by your employer), online at www.unitedwayofleecounty.com, by mailing a check, or by calling our office directly.
7. How much of my donation goes to programs?
United Way of Lee County maintains low administrative costs to ensure the maximum amount of your donation goes directly to community programs. We are committed to transparency and stewardship.
8. Who decides how the money is spent?
Local community volunteers carefully review funding applications and make recommendations based on community needs, program effectiveness, and outcomes. Final decisions are approved by the United Way Board of Directors.
9. Why should I give to United Way instead of directly to a nonprofit?
There are many meaningful reasons to give to United Way of Lee County. Of course, there are the obvious ones—your donation is tax-deductible, we create real, local impact, and you can choose to support your favorite Community Partner. But let’s take a closer look at why giving to United Way truly makes a difference here at home.
We’ve done the homework for you. When you give to United Way of Lee County, you can trust that your donation is being used wisely. Every funded program is thoroughly reviewed to ensure your dollars are spent efficiently, services are actually being delivered, and lives in our community are being changed for the better.
One gift supports many. It can be hard to choose just one agency to support—especially when so many people in our community face multiple challenges. For example, a woman escaping domestic violence in the middle of the night needs far more than just a place to stay. She may need clothing, counseling, legal help, job training, and more. That’s why your gift to United Way supports a network of local agencies working together to meet a variety of needs. With one donation, you help provide a comprehensive system of support that changes lives.
Your gift goes even further. Many of our Community Partners use United Way funding to unlock additional support through grants. Whether applying for federal, state, or private foundation funding, agencies often need to show matching dollars—and United Way provides that match. This means your gift not only supports immediate services but also helps bring even more resources into Lee County. It’s a smart investment that multiplies its impact.
When you give to United Way of Lee County, you’re doing more than making a donation. You’re helping build a stronger, more connected, and more resilient community—for everyone who calls Lee County home.