United Way of White County Searcy, Arkansas

Executive Director: Pat Downs
Administrative Assistant: Catherine Vest

2008/2009 Campaign Goal: $450,000

Coverage Area: White County

Information and Facts about United Way of White County:

United Way of White County was formed in 1979 by a group of far-sighted business men. These men saw the need for one large fund raising effort that benefited many different organizations rather than numerous fundraisers that benefited just one cause.

The first campaign goal was set at $75,000 under the direction of Mr. Richard Hatfield, the first president and Mr. Jim Baugh Jones, the first campaign chairman.  Together with their committee, they raised $125,000.

Currently there are 27 members on the board of directors. The board is made up of men and women from different walks of life from all over the county. They are all volunteers and each of them bring the experience of their professions along with their life experiences.

Mr. Justin Lawson is the current president, and Mr. Mel Sansom serves as this year's campaign chairman.  The 2009 Campaign theme is LIVE UNITED. 

Help starts when contributions are made to United Way of White County. United Way of White County then allocates these contributions to the agencies it serves.  These agencies then provide services to the men, women, and children of White County.

At present there are fourteen agencies under the umbrella of United Way of White County.  Most of these agencies have experienced decreased government funding and the requests for services they provide are increasing. Because of this, United Way support is even more critical to their programs. Some of these agencies must receive a percentage of local funding to qualify for government funding.

To qualify for agency status, an agency must have its 501 (c) 3 tax status, have a local functioning board of directors, and must have been in existence for at least two years.  To be considered for agency status, the agency writes a letter to the President of United Way of White County and sends a copy of the letter to the allocation chairman and a copy to the United Way office. This letter should include the above required information along with justification as to how these funds would be spent to benefit the people of White County. All financial information should be disclosed. The executive committee discusses this request and makes a recommendation to the board of directors at the next scheduled board of directors meeting. At that time, the board votes on the recommendations made by the executive committee.

United Way of White County conducts pre-campaign allocations. This means that the agencies are asked to submit their allocation requests in April. Along with their request, they must include all financial data, current balance sheet, and a letter justifying why they need an allocation from United Way. This letter must explain how the requested funds will be used to benefit the people of White County.

After all this information is received, packets are put together giving each of the allocation committee members a copy of information from each agency. Assignments are then made to allocation committee members for on-site visits. Each member is assigned to one or two agencies to visit prior to the next meeting. The on-site visits allow the committee members to find out if the agencies have particular needs and it gives them a better in-sight as to the extent of the needs of the agencies.

After the visits are all made, the allocation committee meets again. At this time, reports are made on the on-site visits for each agency. The financial information is thoroughly reviewed and an allocation amount for each agency is set and will be presented to the board of directors at the next scheduled board meeting. At that time, the board of directors can approve, request additional information, or approve the recommendations as presented.

After this process, the agencies receive a letter stating what their allocation will be for the coming year. The letter also states that all allocations are contingent upon the success of the campaign. This is how the campaign goal is determined. The allocation process is done prior to the campaign. The fall campaign will raise funds to be allocated in the next calendar year. This process is called pre-campaign allocations. The allocation committee normally functions as the executive committee, but other people may be asked to serve on the allocation committee.

All contributions stay in the county with the exception of one percent which goes to pay dues to United Way of America. Payment of the dues allows our organization to use the logo. We must meet a membership criteria along with the dues. From these dues we receive credits. These credits can be used for training opportunities and for travel to and from these learning opportunities.

United Way of White County receives benefits from the NFL spots, public service announcements, and other national advertising efforts.

We also have access to successful models and marketing techniques. United Way of America provides market research and comparative analysis. It provides a network for the distributing of best practices and innovations. Daily e-mails are received from United Way of America.

All decisions regarding finances and board policies are made by the United Way of White County Board of Directors. The board sets all policies and governs the actions of United Way of White County regardless of what is going on at United Way of America or any of the hundreds of United Ways across the country.

All checks require two signatures. The treasurer or president reviews and initials all bills for payment. The board receives monthly financial statements. Contributions are logged in a book by one of the employees. The other employee makes out the deposits and makes the deposits. The first employee records the deposits in the accounting software. Each employee signs off on the log as to the duties they have performed. Cash contributions are counted by each employee and each employee signs off on the amount of the cash.

Ways to contribute to United Way of White County:

1. Through payroll deduction
2. One time contribution
3. Fair share contribution (one hour pay per month)
4. Leadership Giving contribution- A Leadership Gift is $500 or more. For a $500 or more contribution, individuals or corporations are recognized by their names being listed in the Leadership Giving Booklet which is printed at the close of the campaign. An individual or corporation may prefer to be listed anonymously.

Many companies match dollar per dollar employee’s contributions. This is an excellent way to honor employees and make a difference for those in need.

Contributors have the right to designate their contributions to specific agencies.

Allowing employees to attend a United Way presentation can be costly to the employer. When making a presentation, please make sure you thank the employer as well as the contributors. Because of their contributions, thousands of men, women, and children throughout White County will receive needed services which will improve the quality of their lives.

If you have questions or need supplies, please call the United Way office at    268-7489.