Isn't it more efficient to give directly to an agency?
When you think of this as a gift for 23 agencies, and realize that you can use payroll deduction, it makes giving easier, and makes your gift go further. Some agencies have fewer income sources than others, and are dependent on United Way contributions for a larger portion of their budget.

Why should I give to United Way?
People give because they understand the needs. United Way contributions stay right here in the Golden Triangle area to help twenty-three local health and human care providers serve local people in need. Your single contribution to United Way, when added to the gifts from hundreds of your neighbors, helps to resolve local problems such as domestic violence, children and adults with physical and mental challenges, alcohol and drug abuse, and homelessness.

Who is in charge at United Way? Who decides how much money an agency gets?
Volunteers -- people like yourself -- are in charge. Your United Way of Beaumont is governed by a local volunteer board made up of your neighbors, representing a cross-section of the community. Volunteers also decide how much money each agency gets. Their job is to ensure that the needs of Beaumont and North Jefferson County are being met. If you would like to serve as a United Way Volunteer, please call the United Way office at 835-4575.

Some of the United Way agencies have their own fund-raisers. Why are they on the list?
There will always be a gap between needs and resources, especially when you consider that costs go up each year -- costs of utilities, office supplies, etc., while campaign proceeds have remained relatively flat. Most agencies have developed additional income sources, such as foundation grants, governmental contracts, and membership enrollment programs.