Frequently Asked Questions
What is United Way Ottawa’s cost of fundraising and how does it compare to other charities?
United Way’s cost of fundraising is 15%.
This amount is significantly lower than the national average fundraising cost of 26% according to Imagine Canada. Our fundraising costs also compare favourably with other United Ways across Canada, considering the fact that Ottawa has a much lower base of available support from corporations than other major metropolitan areas, such as Toronto and Vancouver.
When you give to United Way Ottawa, you are giving locally. You can be assured that 100% of your contribution stays in Ottawa and is making a measurable impact in Ottawa.
Why United Way? Why shouldn’t I just give directly to my charity of choice?
United Way’s purpose is to improve people’s lives today, and to create, long-term, measurable and meaningful social change in our community. They do this by understanding the issues that affect our community and by bringing together community leaders and experts to create solutions that address significant community challenges.
Last year, almost 57,000 lives were changed for people who benefited directly from the programs, services and partnerships supported through donations to United Way. No other giving opportunity in Ottawa lets you help so many people in your community through a single donation.
What is the First-time Donor’s Super Tax Credit (FTDSC)?
The FTDSC gives first-time donors and those who haven’t claimed a charitable donation in the last five years an extra 25% on their tax credit for charitable gifts. Applicable to any single cash donation up to $1000 made by an individual or couple between now and 2017.
Donations up to $200 receive a 40% tax credit.
Donations between $201 -$1000 receive a 54% tax credit.
How do I get a receipt for my gift?
If you donate through payroll deduction, your donation will appear on your T4 slip. If you contribute by cash, cheque or credit card, a receipt will be issued by United Way for gifts of $20 or more.
How does United Way keep costs low?
At 15%, United Way has one of the lowest fundraising and administration costs in the non-profit sector in North America. By working with more than 14,000 volunteers, partnering with 1,100 workplaces, and securing sponsorship and gifts in-kind, United Way keeps costs down and maximizes every dollar you give.
What are the advantages of payroll deduction?
A gift made through payroll deduction is easy and efficient. It helps keep processing costs at a minimum and allows you to spread the payment of your gift over the entire year. Your donation appears on your T4 slip so you don’t have to keep track of a receipt.
What is donor choice?
United Way offers donors several options for how to direct their gifts. First and foremost, they offer donors the option to allow them to invest their gift in their three focus areas: All that Kids and Be, From Poverty to Possibility, and Healthy People, Strong Communities. Donors may wish to direct a portion of their gift to a specific impact area, a specific program or another Canadian registered charity. To do this you complete the appropriate section on the Pledge Form whether on-line or hard copy.
What is Leadership Giving?
A Leadership Gift starts at $1,200 and offers several important advantages. For example, for just $47 per pay, you can make an annual leadership gift of $1,222 (based on 26 pay periods), which will cost you only $30 per pay after tax. Leadership Donors are the fastest-growing segment of the United Way’s annual campaign.