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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
 A. What is United Way's History
 The concept of the United Way began in Denver, Colorado, in 1887. Four caring men - a priest, two ministers and a rabbi - began to dream of greater service to others. They envisioned one organization that could include and unify many other organizations and, in the process, strengthen each of them. It was a concept that proved its worth – and one powerful enough to reach Tampa 37 years later. Click to read more.
B. What is United Way's Mission?
United Way is a local not-for-profit organization working to mobilize the resources of individuals, companies, government, and labor to achieve positive and lasting changes in the lives of people in the community. Our mission is to inspire leaders and partners and mobilize resources to make a measurable difference in the lives of people in our community.
United Way’s vision is to build a strong, caring community.
C. What does United Way do?
United Way leads and partners with many community organizations to understand the needs of people in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties. We research and work with key partners to identify the best approaches to solve problems and address needs to build a stronger community. United Way provides year-round communications to create awareness in communities about issues, conditions, and opportunities. We work closely with our partners to raise funds and recruit people needed to implement the right programs to produce measurable results.
D. How is United Way different from other charities?
The value of United Way is the ability to engage the community to act together to change the conditions and systems that affect people. While other organizations help a single population of people or address a particular symptom of need, United Way is able to have impact on a variety of issues, while staying focused on the ones the community has agreed need the most attention. We have the unique privilege of connecting available resources to critical needs in ways that other organizations cannot
E. How is United Way Accountable?
United Way of Tampa Bay submits a community-driven self-assessment of its community impact, financial management, decision-making and organizational governance every three years to United Way of America. These assessments are reviewed by a group of United Way volunteers, professional leaders and outside experts in areas of financial management, governance and ethics.
United Way of Tampa Bay reports full revenue, expense data, annual reports, IRS 990forms,financial audits and codes of ethics to United Way of America for third party review. You can view such information in our resource center.
F. What does United Way mean by "Community Impact?"
United Way’s Community Impact Agenda expands United Way’s work and role in the community. The organization continues to help individuals and families, and also provide leadership to change community conditions, such as unemployment, poverty, the lack of affordable child care, and adult illiteracy.
H. How does United Way define ‘resources?’
Resources include contributions of time (volunteers), talent (leadership and expertise, in-kind services and products), and treasure (money). All resources are necessary to achieve impact in the community.
J. Why should I give to United Way?
A gift to United Way is an investment in the health and safety of our community. Chances are, you or someone you know has already been helped by United Way, and your gift ensures those services will continue to respond if you need help in the future. Giving to others in need makes you feel good, and combined with other contributions, will get results that no one could achieve on their own.
B. Where do I go if I want to donate?
Click on the Donate button on the left hand side of the page, just below the banner, (or click HERE). You can also give by telephone at 813.274.0900. Just tell the receptionist you wish to give a donation. Or you can mail in your donation to:
United Way of Tampa Bay
Donations Team
5201 W. Kennedy Ave., Suite 600
Tampa, FL 33609
C. Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes.
D. Who do I call if I haven't received my charitable tax receipt?
Call Lori L. Rossi at 813.274.0900. You can email her at lrossi@uwtb.org
How can I contact a United Way Partner Agency?
Refer to the list of United Way partner agencies.
How can I plan for my family's financial future?
 United Way operates My Family's Future, which offers financial information and resources, including links to local organizations that can help you as well as more than 20 financial tools and calculators. Visit the site for more information.
How do I find out more about free income tax preparation services?
The Prosperity Campaign provides free tax preparation at dozens of locations in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. Volunteers will assist you with your income tax preparation and help you apply for Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) and Child Tax Credits (CTC). Each year millions of dollars are put back into the hands of people who qualified for such benefits. You can find more information here.
Who can I call for help?
In the Tampa Bay area, dial 2-1-1 to talk to an information specialist. He or she will assess your needs over the phone and instruct you about available resources. For more information about 211, click here.
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