Our commitment to you
Recently, there has been notable coverage in the national media and viral emails circulating regarding Canadian charities and the cost of fundraising. At United Way, transparency and accountability are essential elements of the work we do.
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United Way London & Middlesex does not use paid external fundraisers.
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The reality is that raising funds does incur costs such as wages and the production of promotional materials, but United Way takes great pride in keeping these costs at a minimum through in-kind corporate support and the tremendous efforts of more than 2000 unpaid volunteers who contribute their time in all aspects of our organization; governance, community planning, fundraising, and fund distribution.
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Because of volunteer efforts, in-kind corporate support, and maintaining a small but efficient staff group, United Way is proud to report that our independently and externally audited fundraising costs over the past two years represent only 15% of dollars raised. This is far lower than CRA’s (Canada Revenue Agency) recommended guideline limit of 35% and far lower than the industry norm.
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In addition to strict adherence to CRA guidelines for charities and GAAP (Generally Acceptable Accounting Principles), being a part of the United Way movement involves adherence to an even more stringent standard known as “TAFR” (Transparency and Accountability of Financial Reporting).
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Local United Ways are separately incorporated, autonomous, non-profit organizations with local volunteer Boards of Directors. The CEO of United Way London & Middlesex is hired and their salary is established by our volunteer Board of Directors. Staff salaries are set using information from United Ways and non-profits across the country of comparable size, recognizing major responsibilities and skills required. Salaries comprise part of the fundraising and community services costs, which are kept well below Canada Revenue Agency standards.
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United Way of London & Middlesex has adopted and adheres to Imagine Canada's Ethical Fundraising Code Program. For more information visit http://www.imaginecanada.ca/ethicalcode.
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Just as important as raising funds efficiently is ensuring that donor dollars are having a measurable and positive impact. Highly efficiently raised dollars given to ineffective organizations are not a wise investment. In addition to being a highly efficient fundraiser, United Way remains the best way to ensure that donations are focussed broadly across the community in programs and services that get results.
Our donors are the foundation of United Way. Your generosity supports a vital network of programs and services that enable United Way to address the root causes of social issues and create lasting change in our community. Our commitment to you is that we will continue to make every effort to ensure that your donation has maximum impact in people’s lives right here in London and Middlesex County.
