What is the mission of United Way of Lake & Sumter Counties?

United Way is a community service system of human care, which seeks to improve citizen quality of life by uniting people and resources responsibly and effectively through the identification and resolution of specific community needs.

Where does my investment go?

United Way combines your gift with other gifts and grants to focus on the greatest needs of our community.  Our work with the social service agencies, the government bodies, and our citizens gives us direct knowledge of the needs in your area.  This means we can respond to emergency needs as well as work on long-term approaches to investing your money into solutions.

Your investment also enables us to help those agencies that are facing steep state budget cuts, diversify income sources, increase operating efficiency and service delivery, decrease expenses, recruit volunteers, and measure results.  United Way has a documented impact on the communities we serve.

What percentage of my contribution goes toward fundraising expenses?

Unlike many charities that can take up to 35% or more for fundraising expenses, United Way of Lake & Sumter Counties uses approximately 12%.  United Way takes the business of investing and managing your gift very seriously.  We strive to ensure our partner agencies receive the funds needed to provide solutions within our communities.

Can I specify which agency receives my pledge?

Yes.  You can designate a specific agency, a type of service (such as children or senior programs), or you can allow our volunteer allocations committee to designate the funds based on the needs of your area.  We will honor all designation requests to any 501(c)(3) agency.

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes.   United Way and all United Way agencies are non-profit which means you can deduct 100% of your donation.