Frequently
asked questions regarding TUW
What is Trident United Way?
Trident United Way (TUW) is an organization in the Lowcountry that
brings together people, businesses, government, and agencies to determine
our most pressing human service problems and develop the resources to solve
them.
Who owns United Way?
You do. TUW is owned and operated by and for the Tri-county community.
How is TUW making a difference in the community?
Nearly half the school children in the community either don’t graduate
high school or graduate without the skills to succeed in an information-age
workplace. Since 1998, TUW has increased its investment in programs targeting
parenting education, early childhood development, after-school programs,
and workplace readiness. During that time, the percentage of children entering
first grade unprepared to learn—a key indicator of future success—dropped
by 25 percent.
How does TUW decide which programs to invest
in?
TUW invests in programs that measurably improve people’s lives and
have the greatest impact in our community. More than 200 volunteers make
the decisions about which programs were the most effective and deserved
donors’ support.
Why did TUW stop investing in some summer camp
programs?
In attempting to improve the staggering drop-out rate in the community,
TUW is committed to investing in programs that help children succeed academically,
choose healthy lifestyle behaviors, and grow up prepared for the 21st-century
workplace. Programs that address those issues are far more likely to receive
support than those that don’t.
Does TUW invest in Boy Scout programs?
Yes. The Boy Scouts “Scout Reach” program makes a measurable difference
in increasing academic performance, healthy lifestyle decision-making and
21st century workforce skills. TUW invests more than $120,000 in that program.
Does United Way invest in programs in Berkeley
and Dorchester counties?
For a list of investments, visit the community investments Web site
at http://www.tuw.org.
To whom can I designate?
TUW provides an extra service to its customers, allowing them to donate
through United Way to any 501(c)(3) charity in America. TUW sends the money
to that agency above and beyond any investment United Way makes through
its annual investment process in programs run by that agency.
It is important to note you can designate your gift to any 501 (c)(3),
non-profit organization, including the Health Sciences Foundation of MUSC.
When you make a gift to the 2004 TUW Campaign, you can actually earmark
it for the qualified MUSC program of your choice on your pledge form. The
form be accessed at http://www.musc.edu/catalyst/tuw.htm
How much of my designation goes to the agency
I choose?
United Way distributes an average of 88 cents of every designated dollar
it collects. The rest covers administrative and fundraising costs.
My employer forces me to give to United Way.
Giving to United Way must always be voluntary. If you feel you’ve
been forced to give, TUW wants to know about it. Call 740-9000, ext. 245
or e-mail dnicole@tuw.org.
I heard about a scandal at United Way. Was
that Trident United Way?
No. Each of the nation’s 1,800 United Ways is an independently operated
organization, responsible for its community. United Ways in Washington,
D.C., and Lansing, Mich., got into trouble in 2002 for violating national
guidelines on the reporting and expenditure of donations. TUW adheres to
the strictest ethical and financial standards. If you have questions, call
740-9000 or e-mail ckerrigan@tuw.org.
How much does United Way spend on fundraising and salaries?
TUW is able to invest more than 88 cents of each dollar collected in
programs and services helping people.
I know someone who didn’t get help from TUW
when they needed it. Why not?
Every year, TUW helps thousands of people get the help they need and
improve their lives. Most often, United Way’s role is to connect people
with the appropriate resources—not actually deliver. United Way’s 2-1-1Hotline
service connects people who dial 2-1-1 with the services they need.
Whom do I contact if I have more questions
about how TUW operates?
E-mail barryw@tuw.org or call 740-9000.
Friday, Nov. 5, 2004
Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated
as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations
for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South
Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107
or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst
Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to petersnd@musc.edu
or catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Community
Press at 849-1778.
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