Campaign Resources

United Way Campaign FAQs

Who directs the United Way?

While United Way of Washington County has a small passionate staff, it is a volunteer-driven organization governed by a local, all-volunteer board of directors.

Why shouldn't I donate directly to my favorite agency, rather than to the United Way?

While your favorite agency is just as deserving, the United Way provides some unique opportunities for your charitable investment. It also gives your dollars the chance to impact Washington County as a whole. Your donation will be invested in programs that get to the root of the underlying causes of our community's problems. Our goal should be to impact the community in a way that removes the need altogether.

If I don't use United Way Services, why should I donate?

Your donation is a personal investment in our community, enabling the United Way to address the underlying causes of our community's most critical issues – among them quality child care, substance abuse and other health-related issues, illiteracy and crime. Through the United Way, your dollars will be leveraged to effectively address long-term and short-term community needs. The United Way helps people every day in Washington County.

What is our United Way's relationship with the United Way of America?

Our local United Way is separate and independent of the National office. The United Way of America is our trade association. We pay dues to them and receive many valuable services in return.

I designated to another United Way/partner agency last year but got a letter from your United Way. Why didn't you send my money where I wanted it to go?

Since your campaign is being run through the United Way of Washington County, you will receive a 'tax letter' from us. You should also receive a letter from whomever you designated to acknowledging your donation, but we have no control over that. Rest assured, your money went exactly where you wanted to go, we just want to make sure you get the tax credit, too!

How can I find out more about the different agencies that the United Way supports and how their services could be of help to me?

Call United Way of Washington County at 301-739-8200. We can refer you to an agency that can help with your specific needs. All calls are confidential.

Have a creative way you fundraise for United Way?
Please share your ideas on our Blog and click here to e-mail us photos to be put on the Photo Gallery!