2024 Employee Campaign

United Way’s Workplace Campaigns are about bringing people together where they work to tackle our community’s most challenging issues – because no one person or organization can do it alone.

Message from our Campaign Champions Jada and Gary Williams:

We hope this message finds you well. As new members of Huntingdon County, Jada and I have been deeply moved by the generosity and compassion that define our community, especially in challenging times.

The United Way plays a crucial role in addressing the needs of local families. In 2023 alone, the Huntingdon County United Way supported nearly 35,000 residents—80% of our population—by providing $79,000 for housing and utilities, $74,000 for childcare, and $40,000 for essential services.

As CHAMPIONS of this years United Way campaign, we are reaching out today to invite you to join us in supporting the United Way campaign. This year, Jada and I are excited to announce that we plan to match the first $25,000 in donations, doubling the impact of every contribution.  Your donations make a significant impact for our entire community.

We understand that times can be tough, even the smallest contribution can lead to big changes when we come together as a community. Your support, whether through a financial gift or volunteer time, will make a real difference. Every dollar and every hour spent helps strengthen the fabric of our community.

Thank you for being a part of the Huntingdon County family. Your unwavering support for one another is what makes our community truly special. Let’s come together to show our commitment to helping those in need. With your help, we can reach our goal and make a meaningful difference.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Gary and Jada Williams

Just the FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know the money I contribute gets to the agencies?
United Way is held accountable by community volunteers on its board of directors.  These volunteers allocate funds based on agency needs and ensure that designated funds go where contributors intend.

Does my gift make a difference?
Absolutely! Your gift directly impacts those who use services from United Way agencies.

Why aren’t all agencies included in United Way?
Any qualified local health and human service nonprofit can apply for funding. Some agencies do not meet United Way’s standards, while others follow national policies that require independence. United Way avoids funding agencies with overlapping
services but allows donors to designate their contributions to any IRS 501(c)(3) health and human services nonprofit, even if it's not a United Way partner.

Who decides how much money each agency receives?
A volunteer committee reviews each agency’s programs, budgets, and funding requests to determine allocations.

Who oversees our local United Way?
Each United Way has a volunteer board of directors that sets policies and monitors activities.

I feel like I’m pressured to give!
Giving to United Way is entirely personal, and no one should feel forced. United Way will refund contributions given under pressure. Sometimes, simply being asked to give may feel like pressure, but it’s vital to make the community aware of its needs.

How can I get help through United Way and/or its Agencies?
If you or someone you know needs help and isn’t sure where to turn, call United Way at (814) 643-3142 or email:  [email protected]

May I direct my gift to a specific nonprofit agency or other United Way?
Yes, United Way allows you to direct your gift to any United Way member agency, another United Way, or any IRS 501(c)(3) organization you care about.

My spouse already gives through their employer; why should I give too?
Both spouses giving through their employers can amplify support, benefiting many local programs and services.

May I give amounts other than those suggested on the pledge card?
Yes. United Way encourages you to give in a way that aligns with your personal circumstances and values.

I’m never going to need United Way services, so why should I support them?
While you may not need United Way services, one in two people in our area will use a United Way service this year—often without realizing it. Supporting United Way ensures these services are available to those who may need them now or in the future.

How do I know the money I contribute gets to the agencies?
United Way is held accountable by community volunteers on its board of directors. These volunteers allocate funds based on agency needs and ensure that designated funds go where contributors intend.