United Way Financials

An Organization You Can Trust

United Way's Cornerstone Partners cover our overhead costs so that 100% of donations go to support projects that help connect people in need with education, financial stability and health and well-being. We also work hard to keep costs as low as possible.

We are committed to using donations effectively and wisely. But don’t just take our word for it.

	Charity Navigator, one of the country's top independent charity evaluators, gives United Way of the Columbia-Willamette its highest 4-star rating for using funds efficiently and sharing sufficient information with donors and the public. Only 16% of organizations rated by Charity Navigator receive two consecutive four-star ratings.
	We are also recognized by GuideStar for our commitment to transparency: open sharing of information, including financial statements, annual reports, and details about projects and leadership.
	The Better Business Bureau Charity Seal is our newest financial integrity certification, awarded in June 2012. For donors, it means that United Way has been extensively evaluated by the BBB and passed its standards for spending funds prudently, sharing information transparently, measuring the organization's effectiveness and following good governance standards. It demonstrates the organization's commitment to overall ethical practices.

Our Fiscal Efficiency

At the end of our most recent fiscal year ending June 30, 2012, our overhead ratio was 14%. Administrative cost for management and general operations was a very competitive 6%. Our fundraising expense was 8%, which covers fundraising in the entire four-county region and helps over 1,000 businesses and organizations run employee-giving campaigns.

Importantly, thanks to the support of United Way's Cornerstone Partner companies, 100% of overhead costs are covered by corporate gifts, and as a result, 100% of every private donation goes directly back into our community.

Financial Documents