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Handling Objections and Frequently Asked Questions
You have just delivered the most flawless campaign presentation in the history of philanthropy. Your case was convincing. You’ve made the ask.
And then, in the back of the room, a hand goes up...
The first thing you should remember about objections is that they are not personal. The objection is not directed at you, rather at the idea of giving. Relax and give people time to express their objection. Given the opportunity and encouragement to talk, potential contributors will provide you with a better understanding of their concerns.
How much of my donation goes to services versus administrative costs?
We believe that a donation to Mile High United Way (MHUW) is the best way to help the most people. In addition to putting your dollars to work helping people in need, we are committed to keeping our administrative expenses low. Over the course of our current Five-Year Plan, as in the past, we are investing 85% of all donations toward programs and projects, exceeding the Better Business Bureau guidelines which suggest that 65% of total expenses for charitable organizations be spent on program activities.
I prefer to give to XYZ organization. Why should I switch to MHUW?
You always have the option of designating your MHUW gift to any 501(c) (3) organization. However, here are three reasons why giving directly to MHUW can make your gift go further:
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If your company has a matching gift program, your gift can be multiplied. |
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MHUW provides a convenient service by deducting a little money from your paycheck at a time – allowing you to possibly contribute more than you might be able to with a one-time gift at the end of the year. This gives you a chance to make a bigger difference for people in need. |
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Through various MHUW partnerships, the money you donate may bring in additional funds through leveraging or matching dollars. For example, a partnership with the State of Colorado may bring a one-to-one match in funds for early childhood care and education activities. Over the past four years, $7.7 million of MHUW funds have been leveraged as matching dollars. |
I can’t afford to give.
Perhaps the most common objection to giving is perceived financial inability to contribute. For many, these objections are real. Remind the person that every bit helps, and whatever they can give is appreciated even if it is $1 per paycheck. Also, time is just as valuable as money, so encourage them to volunteer.
I feel pressured to give.
MHUW does not condone the use of coercion to influence an employee’s decision. If an employee does feel pressured, please assure them that giving is a personal choice.
I do not believe in giving money to those who are not trying to improve their situation in life, such as drug and alcohol abusers.
Mile High United Way’s core initiatives support projects and programs that ensure we create self-sufficiency, by giving a hand up, not a handout. Our Adult Self Sufficiency initiative specifically focuses on helping people who are working hard but still not able to get ahead. Building financial assets allows these individuals to live with dignity and respect and saves our community thousands of dollars each year in emergency medical and social services costs.
 TIP! Always thank the donor for being concerned enough about their community to ask the question. |
What is the difference between a gift to MHUW and a designated gift to an agency?
There are issues and problems within our community that are bigger than we are as individuals. No single organization or individual can tackle these issues without help. By giving to one or all of MHUW’s three initiatives instead of designating your gift to one agency, you can impact a variety of the community’s most pressing needs all at once, with one single gift. That’s the power of collective generosity.
How much of a donation will make a difference?
MHUW and our community depend on each person making a gift based on his or her income or financial assets. For new donors, a good starting point is one or two hours’ pay per paycheck. See How Much Should I Give.
Is MHUW typically involved in relief efforts for natural disasters and community emergencies?
Yes. United Way of America and MHUW play a unique role in relief efforts for natural disasters and community emergencies. United Way’s year-round support for organizations like the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and the Catholic Charities meant that these organizations are ready to provide immediate and long-term relief. United Ways across the country also provide for the short-term needs of those hardest hit by these events.
How can I contact MHUW about helping someone I know?
Simply dial 2-1-1 – our free, confidential, English and Spanish call center available to anyone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our 2-1-1 referral specialists help connect people to a variety of health and human service resources, including child care, food, shelter, and counseling. They also help find volunteer opportunities and match in-kind gifts, such as furniture or used cars with many of the community’s non-profit organizations.
What is the value of running a workplace campaign?
A workplace campaign can be of value to your company in many ways. First and foremost, a workplace campaign provides an opportunity for your employees to support their local community through pre-tax payroll deductions. Many say this is the most convenient way for them to make a meaningful gift. A workplace campaign can also be a team-building opportunity. Many groups set up internal contests or friendly competitions around the campaign. It’s a unique way for everyone to come together for a common purpose, interact with each other and learn more about each other and the community.
What will it cost me to run a campaign?
Running a workplace campaign does not cost your company anything. Many organizations match their employees giving with a corporate gift as an incentive for their employees and as an easy way to give back to the community, but doing so is entirely your choice and not a requirement of running a campaign.
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For objective questions that are not on the above list, contact your Donor Relations Representative.
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Accounting FAQs
How is MHUW held accountable?
The most valuable asset we have is the trust and confidence people have in our ability to meet community needs. We are audited each year by an independent accounting firm to ensure we are in compliance with generally accepted accounting procedures and laws. We strive to meet the philanthropic goals of our donors and offer a donor satisfaction guarantee. We are long standing members of the Better Business Bureau.
How do I check status and/or verify if my gift was paid out correctly?
You can receive personalized service on the status of your gift by contacting MHUW.
Can I make more than one gift using two or more payment options?
Yes, just indicate this on your MHUW pledge form or by contacting your DRR.
If I currently give through payroll deduction, do I have to complete a new pledge form each year for my gift to continue?
Yes, you need to complete a new form confirming your pledge amount and your contact information each year.
I give through payroll deduction each year. How is my gift credited from year to year?
Most MHUW campaigns run on a 12-month cycle but this does vary by company, so check with your Campaign Leader for the specific dates.
How often do you pay out designated gifts?
Monthly. MHUW disburses gifts to designated agencies on the 15th of each month for all payments received by the 15th of the previous month. Agencies receiving less than $100 in a given month may receive distributions quarterly instead.
What agencies can I give to, and can I give to more than one agency?
You can give to one or more agencies that hold a valid 501(c)(3) certificate or to any agency that qualifies as an exempt organization as defined by the IRS. Please note that each designated gift must be $24 or more. Gifts less than this amount will be treated as a donation to MHUW. The best use of your investment is to give directly to Mile High United Way’s three initiatives.
What if I make a mistake and want to change my gift once I submitted my donation?
Not a problem; simply ask your Campaign Leader to put you in touch with your Donor Relations Representative and they will assist you with the change. Changes to an original pledge can only be made once a year.
Do you release my personal information to my designated agency(ies)?
Yes, MHUW shares your information with your designated charity so they can thank you for your gift, unless you indicate on the pledge form that you wish to remain anonymous. Companies that use their own pledge form or pledge capture system may have different options for release of personal information.
How do I receive documentation of my gift for tax deduction?
MHUW and all non-profit organizations are required to provide receipts for one-time gifts of $250 or more if the gift is made by check, credit card, cash, or stock. This process excludes payroll deduction gifts because the donor’s pay stub and pledge form will satisfy the IRS regulations for claiming charitable gifts by payroll deduction. For all gifts under $250, MHUW will issue tax documentation by request only. If you have further questions on this, feel free to contact your DRR.
What Tax Credits am I eligible for?
If you give a minimum of $500 via payroll deduction to an eligible United Way agency or project, you may receive either a 25% or 50% tax credit from the state, but only if your company provides your personal donation information and contact information to MHUW. Some companies prefer to keep their employee’s information anonymous. To ensure your gift of $500 or more is eligible for a tax credit, ask your company to send confirmation of your individual payroll deductions to Accounting Customer Service. Please refer to our website for the complete list of Tax Credit options. Go to www.unitedwaydenver.org, click on How to Give, then click on Tax Credits.
Please do not consider the information in this toolkit to be tax advice. We recommend you consult a professional tax advisor when it comes to filing taxes, and consult the IRS website at www.irs.gov. If you have questions not covered in this section, please contact Accounting Customer Service at 303.561.2313 and email at cs-accounting@unitedwaydenver.org.
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| New Tax Laws FAQs
The Pension Protection Act of 2006 includes a number of provisions specifically targeted at the non-profit sector.
What do these tax laws mean to me?
When you make a contribution by payroll deduction, you must have two forms of documentation to prove the tax deduction at the end of the year:
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A pay stub, W-2 Form, or another document furnished by the employer that indicates the amount withheld during the tax year for payment to MHUW. AND |
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A copy of your pledge card, or other confirmation letter prepared by MHUW. |
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If you make a one-time contribution (not using payroll deduction) of less than $250, then you only need one form of documentation for your tax deduction at the end of the year, which can be: |
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A bank record, such as a photocopy of the check, or a bank statement. OR |
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A copy of your pledge card, or if you don’t have a pledge card, a confirmation letter prepared by MHUW. |
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In all cases, the documentation you use as “proof” must contain three points of information:
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The date of the contribution |
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The amount of the contribution |
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The name of the non-profit organization |
By when should I receive a tax receipt?
For the documentation to be considered a tax deduction, a donor must receive the acknowledgement by the earlier of:
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The date on which you file the tax return. OR |
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The due date (including extensions) of the tax return. |
Please do not consider the information in this section to be tax advice. We recommend you consult a professional tax advisor when it comes to filing taxes, and consult the IRS website at www.irs.gov.
If you have questions about the history of your gift, please contact your DRR.
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