AS A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION, United Way owes contributors a lot more than thanks. We also have an obligation to use donations responsibly and to keep administrative expenses low.

The Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance recommends that a charity's fund-raising and administrative costs not exceed 35% of what it pays out, while the American Institute of Philanthropy sets a standard of 40%. Thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who complement a small paid staff, United Way of Marion County is able to operate much more efficiently than many other charities. This helps your gift go further. And, because United Way supports local agencies, and deals with area merchants and suppliers whenever possible, about 99¢ of every dollar collected for Marion County stays right here, strengthening the local economy.

Research shows that a dollar spent in a community changes hands five to seven times before it moves outside the area.

United Way of Marion County's Campaign Goal for 2007: $1,125,000.00

How Your Gift Will be Used*   Agency Allocations  76.0% Agency Services 6.7% Uncollectible Pledges 6.5% Campaign 6.0% Management & Gen. Exp. 3.8% UW of America & Ohio UW  1.0% *Projected percentages for 2009