100% of your donation stays in Lee County.
Every dollar invested in United Way stays here in the Lee County. We believe in taking care of our own and we want to build a thriving community where we all live, work and raise our families. We are required to send 1% of campaign revenue to United Way of Worldwide, however, a local trust and UWLC board members have designated their donations to cover this expense.
United Way supports what you believe in.
Since each local United Way is a separate 501(c)(3) organization that is locally controlled and governed, United Way of Lee County reflects the values of our community. Sometimes a United Way in another city or state may have funded a cause or a charity that many people in our community would not support. They don’t need to worry that their gifts will go to that charity. Their gifts, like all United Way gifts, will stay in Lee County to support 1 out of every 3 residents.
Even a small gift can make an impact.
No matter how much you choose to invest; you will be helping to improve the lives of families in Lee County. There is no gift too small. In fact, the annual campaign in Lee County is made up of thousands of small gifts. We don’t have large donors writing giant checks, we are supported by hard working people who support us with thousands of small gifts. Even a small amount makes a difference.
Why give to United Way instead of a specific agency?
An investment to the United Way will assure the availability of an entire network of human services. For example, a homeless family needs food, clothing, and shelter. If you give to a specific agency you can make this happen. But, what if the family also needs job training, daycare, and counseling to leave the shelter? No one agency can meet all the needs of this family. United Way makes sure all these services are available, from the temporary bed to the long-term solution.
Additionally, UWLC provides program oversight. United Way staff and volunteers provide rigorous program oversight year-round. This includes agency visits ensuring program compliance and progress, as well as financial reviews.
United Way operates at a high rate of efficiency.
No one wants their donation going to overhead and operating expenses. That is why United Way of Lee County runs a very lean organization with only one full time staff member and a bookkeeper that works just one day a week.
United Way runs programs to support our community.
Beyond the annual campaign, UWLC works to make our community stronger with programs to serve those in need.
- United Way 211 is an easy to remember telephone number that connects callers with free, confidential information and referrals for community services within Lee County.
- United Way provides nutritious meals to kids and teens 18 and under through the Summer Eats program. Kids and teens can get a free meal from one of ten sites throughout Lee County Participation is open to all children and teens 18 and under.