Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | United Way of South Central Indiana

What is United Way?

United Way of South Central Indiana is a nonprofit organization that works to build stable families across Brown, Greene, Lawrence, Monroe, Orange, and Owen counties. We focus on three connected areas: youth opportunity, healthy communities, and financial security.

We take this approach because these three areas reinforce each other. A child with a mentor is more likely to stay on track in school. A parent with access to affordable healthcare can show up more fully for work and family. A family with a steady job and financial support — like childcare, career coaching, or financial literacy resources — can build lasting stability. Progress in one area supports progress in the others.

This work matters because a significant share of our neighbors are struggling. Right here in our region, 4 out of 10 families are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) or living in poverty — working hard, yet one unexpected bill away from crisis. When these families struggle, the effects ripple across our schools, workplaces, and local economy.

Through partnerships with local programs and agencies, United Way invests in solutions across all three focus areas — from in-school mentoring and early literacy programs, to food assistance and mental health services, to free tax preparation and financial coaching — so that families throughout South Central Indiana have the support they need to move toward stability.

Who runs United Way?

A volunteer Board of Directors represents each of our counties, and professional staff guides United Way's work. Many community-minded volunteers help support the outreach of United Way.

How are campaign funds distributed?

The United Way Community Impact Committee, consisting of United Way Board members and other community leaders, reviews grant applications. Funds are directed toward programs that make the greatest impact on the ALICE population.

What is the value of giving to United Way when I can donate directly to an agency?

Your gift to United Way touches 1 in 3 community members each year. Giving to United Way's Possibility Fund means that your gift will have the greatest local impact, combining with contributions from across our communities to support food security, safe shelter, disaster recovery, financial stability, and more.

Donations to our Possibility Fund will ensure that ALICE families in our region who are living in poverty or teetering right above it will find help when they need it most. United Way also brings together donors, nonprofits, businesses, and community partners to invest in solutions through ongoing grantmaking, collaborative initiatives, data-informed decision-making, and community leadership. This allows us to respond to changing needs and direct resources where they can make the greatest impact.

Why should I give when I can only afford a small amount?

Every single dollar makes a difference! Giving at the level that works for you provides an opportunity to join others in the community to help those in need. Many employers offer payroll deduction, which spreads your donation throughout the year. There are many ways to give, including volunteering with United Way of South Central Indiana.

What records should a donor keep to meet IRS rules?

Donors should consult their tax advisor for more information. United Way gratefully acknowledges all gifts, whether cash, check, credit/debit card, or stock receipt. This acknowledgment also serves as your tax receipt.

Donors should keep

A copy of their completed pledge form;
A copy of their pay stub, W-2, or similar document, showing the amount withheld for payroll deduction and the amount paid.

How much of a donation stays local?

Over 98% of every dollar you give stays right here — supporting your neighbors, your co-workers, your community. Every decision is made locally, by a volunteer board of directors who live and work across our six counties, guided by a dedicated local staff.

Does United Way have a non-discrimination policy?

Yes, the non-discrimination policy ensures that all who would benefit from the high-quality programs at grant-funded agencies are eligible to receive those services. Agencies receiving grant funds cannot discriminate on the basis of race, color, marital or familial status, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, nationality, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, housing status, or any legally prohibited classification.

Will I feel pressured to give?

Whether one gives, and how much one gives, are personal decisions.

United Way's Board of Directors takes a strong position that does not condone any form of coercion, especially if there is any stated or implied effect on your personal economic status.

Are donations to United Way tax-deductible?

Yes. United Way of South Central Indiana is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and your donation is tax-deductible as allowed by current federal and state tax law.

What is your association with United Way Worldwide?

We are completely autonomous from United Way Worldwide and Indiana United Ways—all of our decisions are made locally. We voluntarily pay annual dues to the state and national associations in exchange for valuable information and referral services, consultation, supplies, publications, training and grant opportunities, and conferences.

Questions ABOUT DIRECTING MY GIFT

Can I direct my gift to a specific nonprofit?

Yes! You can direct all or part of your gift to an eligible nonprofit organization. Directions are included on the donation form.

Gifts directed to a specific nonprofit must be at least $50. Gifts under $50 will support the United Way Possibility Fund, which helps meet our community's most pressing needs.

What if I have additional instructions for my gift?

You can add instructions when making your donation through e-Pledge, online giving, or a paper pledge form.

If you have questions, please contact Sophia at (812) 269-1259 or sophia@unitedwaysci.org.

Which nonprofit organizations are eligible to receive directed gifts?

Organizations must:

Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Serve people in our community
Have a track record of providing services

Religious congregations, government agencies, political organizations, and capital campaigns are not eligible. If the organization you choose is not eligible, we will contact you to discuss other options.

Is there a fee for directed gifts?

A 10% administrative fee is applied to gifts directed to another nonprofit organization. This fee helps cover processing and distribution costs.

For payroll deduction gifts, the amount received by the designated agency is reduced by 6% to account for uncollected pledges.