FAQs
How can people make donations to United Way?
Donating through payroll deduction at your workplace is the easiest way. Cash, check, or credit card (Visa or Mastercard) donations are also accepted. If you would like more information on workplace campaigns or individual donations, please call the United Way Montcalm-Ionia Counties office at 616.794.9840.
Will my gift be tax deductible?
The full amount of your contribution to United Way is tax deductible as allowed by law. Consult your tax advisor for more information.
Why should I give to United Way when my family or I never use agency programs?
Because with every person assisted by a united Way agency, our community gets healthier and stronger. This adds up to a better quality of life for everyone. Chances are, you or someone you know, has benefited. United Way and its partner agencies are here for everyone! Isn’t it comforting to know you’ve helped ensure agencies will be there to help improve the quality of life for your friends, neighbors, and families?
Can I choose where my gift should go?
Yes, the United Way Montcalm-Ionia Counties is pleased to honor your wishes in designating your gift in the way that is important to you. You can choose one or any number of agencies; though we believe the best way to help the most people is to contribute to the Community Fund.
Please note that if you choose to designate your pledge to a certain organization, outside of the agencies we already support, there will be an adminstrative fee applied to your donation.
Why should I give to United Way when I can give directly to an agency?
Giving directly to United Way is the least expensive and most cost-effective way to raise money to help those in need. By giving to United Way Montcalm-Ionia Counties a donor is giving to a system of agencies that works closely together to best serve our community’s needs. In many cases, one agency cannot meet a family’s or individual’s total needs by itself. That’s why it’s so important that all agencies receive adequate funding. A committee of local community volunteers, reviewing the United Way partner agencies’ programs and budgets, decide how much money each program should receive, based on community needs and the program’s effectiveness in meeting those needs.
Where does my contribution go?
98.5% of the funds raised through the United Way Montcalm-Ionia Counties stays in our counties. We pay membership dues of one percent to the United Way Worldwide and .5% to Michigan Association of United Ways. We receive much more back from those dollars in help and scholarships than we send to them. They provide us with staff training, community research information, campaign products, free NFL advertising and on-going consultation.
How can I get more involved?
United Way and its partner organizations need and appreciate volunteer participation. Contact United Way Montcalm-Ionia Counties at 616.794.9840 or email melissa.castillo@unitedway.org for more information.