FAQ

United Way of Central Massachusetts (UWCM) distributes 85% of every campaign dollar raised back to the community. The Better Business Bureau suggests anything less than 35% for overhead is acceptable. United Way strives to keep our overhead cost well below that amount.

Agencies seeking funding for programs and services must submit detailed applications, financial statements, certified audits, and program descriptions and results during our annual grant process. Volunteers review all applicants and make decisions about funding. For more information about our grant process, CLICK HERE.

UWCM funds programs that align with our strategic vision for a stronger, more connected and equitable community. Our funding supports for key impact areas:

1. Youth Opportunity - We invest in programs that empower young people with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive, including access to mentorship, education and pathways to success. 

2. Healthy Community - Promoting the physical, mental and social well-being of our community is a priority. We fund programs that improve access to healthcare, shelter, support mental health initiatives, food security and encourage well-being for everyone. 

3. Community Resilience - We support initiatives that enhance social connections, address immediate needs, mitigate disasters, and prepare our community to adapt from climate and environmental impacts to build a stronger tomorrow. 

4. Financial Security- We believe financial stability is essential for individuals and families to thrive. Our support includes programs that promote financial literacy, workforce development and access to resources that foster long-term economic independence. 

Through these impact areas, UWCM is dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our community and creating lasting change for future generations.

Yes, the United Way accepts planned gifts and welcomes the opportunity to recognize these gifts in the present.

Donations are accepted by credit card online, by mail in the form of check payments, through payroll deduction, or in the form of securities. CLICK HERE to donate.

Our volunteer center offers numerous volunteer opportunities for groups and individuals. You can volunteer during our Day of Caring, during the holiday season through our Holiday Wishlist, and more. CLICK HERE to visit the volunteer center.

Yes, according to I.R.S. guidelines, all contributions to United Way of Central Massachusetts are tax deductible. Your cancelled check, credit card statement, or 1090 tax document for payroll deduction will serve as your documentation.

No—residents of all the 30 cities and towns that are in our footprint are served by the work of the United Way. The surrounding towns include: Auburn, Barre, Boylston, Brookfield, Douglas, East Brookfield, East Douglas, Grafton, Holden, Hubbardston, Leicester, Millbury, New Braintree, North Brookfield, Northborough, Northbridge, Oakham, Oxford, Paxton, Princeton, Rutland, Shrewsbury, Spencer, Sterling, Sutton, Upton, Uxbridge, West Brookfield, West Boylston, and Worcester.

Yes, United Way of Central Massachusetts is fully transparent and happy to share our audited financial statements. Click Here to view past statements.