Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

How much of my donation goes to services versus administrative costs?

We invest 85% of all donations toward programs and projects, exceeding the Better Business Bureau guidelines that suggest that 65% of total expenses for charitable organizations be spent on program activities.We believe that a donation to Mile High United Way 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.

How much of a donation will make a difference?

Mile High United Way 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.

I prefer to give to XYZ organization.  Why should I switch to Mile High United Way?

You always have the option of designating your Mile High United Way gift to any 501(c)(3) organization.  However, here are reasons why giving directly to Mile High United Way can make your gift go further:

	Because of our 2-1-1 call center, our collaborations and the connected nature of our three initiatives, we are uniquely positioned to understand the most pressing needs and provide solutions that benefit the whole community.
	Mile High United Way is the only organization that has the capacity to serve as a change agent by addressing immediate needs AND working to provide long-term solutions.
	Mile High United Way can leverage your gift through tax credits and in some cases, federal and state matching dollars.
	We hold ourselves and our funded community partners to a high degree of accountability to ensure your gift is used efficiently.

What is the difference between a gift to Mile High United Way 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 Mile High United Way’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.

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.

How can I contact Mile High United Way 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.

Is Mile High United Way in compliance with The USA Patriot Act?

The USA Patriot Act is an Act of Congress that was signed into law by President George Bush on October 26, 2001, to aid law enforcement in the battle against terrorism.  Mile High United Way is in full compliance with this act.  Mile High United Way requires all agencies to which funds are designated to certify that all United Way funds will be used in compliance with all applicable anti-terrorist financing and asset control laws.  We recommend that you access CRS Report for Congress or USA PATRIOT Act to get more information.