What is United Way?
United Way is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) agency that brings people and communities together to advance the common good. We partner with local nonprofits, businesses, government and social service agencies to address our community's most pressing needs.
What does United Way of Defiance County do?
Our work helps provide the building blocks for a good life through efforts in three areas in Defiance County:
- Education
- Financial Stability
- Health
We fund local programs that address poverty’s root causes on multiple fronts, and we measure our impact and success each year in our Annual Impact Report. We also fund Essential Services in the community that are a safety net and bridge gaps in services already available in Defiance County. Some of these Essential Services include disaster relief as well as emergency medication.
Who and where do you help?
United Way of Defiance County funded programs largely serve residents living at or on the edge of poverty in Defiance County. We also fund programs where there is no income eligibility like the Imagination Library and Kindergarten Camp that target early literacy and school readiness. Click here for a full list of programs we currently support.
Who runs United Way?
Why should I give to United Way of Defiance County rather than giving directly to one of their funded agencies?
United Way of Defiance County (UWDC) enables our community to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars annually through a strategic, local campaign. Together the donations and volunteer hours improve more lives than individuals or agencies could by working alone.
United Way of Defiance County thoroughly reviews agencies, programs, and budgets to ensure that your dollars are making the most difference in people’s lives. UWDC only funds programs that impact the community in the areas of education, essential services, financial stability, and health. Additionally, UWDC has programs that it runs internally that also fall under these categories.
Can I designate my contribution?
Yes! You may designate your contribution to an external or internal United Way of Defiance County program. When you request that your donation go to a specific agency, that agency receives these funds in addition to the allocated grant as determined by the Community Investment Team.
How can I make a lasting impact?
United Way of Defiance County (UWDC) funds programs that move our community away from vulnerability and closer to stability. In return, we hope to find solutions that address long-term, overarching needs in our community. Every donation is considered to be making a lasting impact.
Donors do have the option to designate their donation to the UWDC Endowment Fund, maintained by the Defiance Area Foundation.
Does United Way of Defiance County fund abortion services?
United Way of Defiance County does not fund any program that provides abortion services. United Way Worldwide has made a statement regarding this question which you can find here.
Are charitable contributions tax deductible?
Yes! United Way of Defiance County is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. For further questions, contact your accountant or financial advisor.