Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why United Way KW?

United Way KW is committed to making positive, long-term change happen – sustainable change that targets the root of issues so we can all share in our community’s success. Funds given through United Way KW are invested right here in our community where you live, work, learn and play. We work with and through local social service programs and initiatives across 3 Focus Areas (All that kids can be, Healthy people, strong communities, and From poverty to possibility) with the goal of ensuring a strong social support network. That means every effort brings as much impact as possible to the community. [top]

I give to my favourite charity - why should I give to United Way KW?

Faith, education, health-care, sports and culture play very important roles in our community. Many donors include United Way KW in their giving to ensure that basic and secondary needs- including food, shelter and counselling support - are available to all citizens. By giving to United Way KW your dollars support a strong social support network in our community and long-term, sustainable change. It takes more than one organization to make that change. [top]

I've never used a program or service supported by United Way KW, so why should I give?

The Kitchener Waterloo community relies on your support to ensure that community services are in place should you, a loved one, a neighbour or a co-worker ever need them. If you review our lists of supported programs and initiatives, you may find that you are connected to one of them. The lists are broken down by focus area: [top]

All That Kids Can Be
Healthy, People Strong Communities
From Poverty to Possibility

Will my donation stay in my community?

Yes. Unless you designate your gift to another United Way, your donation will remain within your local United Way KW and fund your local community’s programs and initiatives. [top]

How does United Way KW raise funds?

Our fall workplace campaign continues to be our single largest - and most publicly recognized - method of fundraising, but it is not the only method. We also engage donors year-round through other fundraising practices such as direct mail campaigns, special events, and sponsorships. We’re working aggressively to diversify our sources of revenue even further so we can expand our impact on community issues. [top]

How much of my contribution goes to pay fundraising costs?

Because of extraordinary volunteer commitment and numerous gifts-in-kind, United Way KW has a 17% fundraising cost. View our audited financial statements.

We work very hard to keep these costs as low as possible through opportunities such as:

Working extensively with volunteers, including our Board of Directors and Community Impact Council
Partnering with hundreds of workplaces
Securing sponsorships and gifts-in-kind
Getting events and communications materials sponsored wherever possible
Housing our office in space generously donated by the Marsland family [top]

Why should I give since I do not support “X”?

All programs and initiatives we fund meet high standards of service and operation. They depend on each other to form a strong network to support all community issues. All applications for funding are thoroughly reviewed by our Priority Impact Teams, made up of community volunteers just like you. Our rigorous and transparent review process ensures that all funds are invested where they will make the most impact in our community. Making positive changes in complex issues cannot be done by one agency alone. [top]

The Focus Areas don't mention groups such as people with disabilities or seniors. Is United Way KW still supporting these groups?

The Focus Areas are intended to look at community conditions. In addressing root causes, all populations within the community benefit and are supported. [top]

Do United Way KW funded programs and initiatives have other sources of income?

Yes. Supported programs and initiatives are encouraged to utilize a variety of funding sources, which may include foundation and government grants, membership enrolment programs, fees for service and special fundraising events (in accordance with United Way KW's funding agreement). [top]

United Way KW & Area