2013 United Way Champion's Guide

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422 Main Street, Suite 203 127 N. Center Avenue 120 W. High Street Johnstown, PA 15901 Somerset, PA 15501 Ebensburg, PA 15931 814-535-2563 814-445-6927 814-472-6784 United Way of the Laurel Highlands Serving Cambria & Somerset County www.uwlaurel.org 422 Main Street, Suite 203 127 North Center Avenue 120 West High Street, Suite 2 Johnstown, PA 15901 Somerset, PA 15501 Ebensburg, PA 15931 (814) 535-2563 (814) 445-6927 (814) 472-6784

September 5, 2013

Dear United Way Champion,

THANK YOU! Of all the volunteers who help our organization throughout the year, you have the most challenging and rewarding job! You will be volunteering your time distributing United Way materials, organizing events, and championing the LIVE UNITED message.

As you conduct your workplace campaign, you’ll likely become more connected with co-workers, demonstrate your leadership skills to your bosses, network with other community leaders through United Way events, and have some fun. And, you will help our community more than you realize. 70% of our annual revenue comes from the United Way workplace campaigns!

There are many new and exciting changes taking place with the United Way. You will learn more as you review this guide, but one you notice right away is that we have opened both a Somerset and Ebensburg office. This was made possible through the generosity of Henry Cook and Somerset Trust, along with Bob Eyer and Wessel & Company.

Please use this Champions Guide for information/ inspiration and helpful ideas during the planning and execution of your United Way Campaign. Share it with members of your Campaign Team. (Extra copies are available upon request or by going to our website at www.uwlaurel.org and click on the Campaign tab .)

Know that we appreciate your efforts and are here to help you in ANY way that we can. Simply give us a call. Good luck this year and THANKS again!

Sincerely,

Becky Z. Styles 2013 Campaign Chairman

If you give, LIVES WILL BE CHANGED.

THE HEART OF A CHAMPION

Who is a United Way Champion? To you, that may simply mean being the person to whom everyone at work, turns in their United Way pledge. To us, you are our face, voice, hands and feet on the “front lines” of fundraising. You are our “United Way Champions,” the people responsible for Championing our cause and coordinating the campaign in your company. One of our champions recently told us that “I took that role seriously and wanted to organize a campaign that was enjoyable for our staff at the same time as being financially successful,” “Working And with roughly 70% of United Way’s annual campaign activities into daily responsibilities and revenue coming from payroll deduction and sub- trying to reach every single employee with the Unit- sequent corporate matches at the workplace, our ed Way message was a challenge. I was nervous champions play a vital part in the success of our about coming up with new fundraising ideas that organization. would catch everyone's interest.” But she excelled by forming a team of Champions at her workplace who helped organize special events to get employees excited. Another Champion said “We focused on the idea that ‘Together, we can change our communities” “We played on the ‘change’ part of it, encouraging associates to donate an extra 50 cents per week because a little bit of ‘pocket change’ can ‘change’ our communities.” “The other benefit of helping with the United Way Campaign is that I have gotten to know about United Way Funded programs in our area and even better, became closer to many of my co-workers” A Champion’s Role

Champions are asked to publicize the United Way campaign at the workplace, schedule presentations, distribute and collect pledge forms, and coordinate any other “fundraisers” that can bring a staff together for some fun and team-building exercises. The time commitment varies based on the size of the workplace. But the typical campaign period is roughly two weeks. Complete the Company Report Sheet and submit it, along with any cash/ checks collected and copies of employee pledge forms to the United Way of the Laurel High- lands as soon as their campaign is complete.

2 BECOME AN INFORMED CHAMPION KNOW YOUR UNITED WAY You can’t champion a cause you don’t know anything about. The more you know about United Way of the Laurel Highlands, the more impassioned you will become and the more credible you will be with co-workers. Some fast facts: Giving to United Way of the Laurel Highlands United Way of the Laurel Highlands is an through workplace campaigns has been a independent, autonomous organization serving tradition since 1931. Cambria and Somerset Counties. Money raised here stays here to work in United Way of the Laurel Highlands is governed by a Cambria and Somerset Counties. local volunteer board of directors who, along with In 2012 United Way funded programs our Community Impact Council Volunteers, make all touched the lives of 35,160 individuals in funding decisions for our community. These Somerset and Cambria Counties. decisions are based on an assessment, by the United Way of the Laurel Highlands, through community, of the needs in our community . Federal and State grants, also provides fund- United Way of the Laurel Highlands mission is : “To ing to emergency food pantries, utility and improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our rent/mortgage assistance programs in Cam- community” bria County. United Way of the Laurel Highlands is focused on United Way of the Laurel Highlands overhead Education, Income, and Health with five priorities: for administration and fundraising is 17.1% Helping Children & Youth Succeed Strengthening & Supporting Family Promoting Self-Sufficiency Supporting Vulnerable & Aging Populations Promoting Health & Wellness HOW IS THE MONEY DIVIDED? Annually, the United Way of the Laurel Highlands surveys the community to understand community priorities and needs. The UWLH uses this information to target problem areas and “root causes” of community problems. This year we are utilizing our 27 partner agencies to deliver quality programs and services to address these community issues. Additionally, we search out agencies who provide other identified priority areas and help fund programs to meet those needs. These programs and services are monitored and measured to ensure effectiveness, efficiency. They must also track their results and show measureable outcomes. Programs must fall into one of UWLH’s 5 Community Priorities: Helping Children & Youth Succeed Strengthening & Supporting Family Promoting Self-Sufficiency Supporting Vulnerable & Aging Populations Promoting Health & Wellness Community Impact Council is formed with local community volunteers from both Cambria and Somerset County. Each member is trained on the set guidelines. (March) Community Impact Council is divided into panels to review complete grant applications, conduct program site visits/ interviews, and score the application as outlined in set guidelines. They then make a final allocation recommendation for each program to the full Community Impact Council , who in turn, determines final allocation recommendations for approval by the Board of Directors. ( April) UWLH Board of Directors reviews and approves final program funding awards. (April) Agencies are notified in writing of their approved allocation along with any recommendations by the Community Impact Council and/or Board of Directors. 3 United Way of the Laurel Highlands – Partner Agencies 2013-2014 Funded Programs Alternative Community Resource Program (ACRP) Boy Scouts of America, Laurel Highlands Council 131 Market St., Johnstown, PA 15901 1-888-308-6783 201 W. High St., Ste. 1, Ebensburg, PA 15931 www.acrpkids.org Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties (814) 471-1090 www.lhc-bsa.org Respite/Community Center: Program offers families Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties of children with a disability or chronic illness respite Cub Scouting 1-2-3: Comprehensive youth character de- services. velopment program emphasizing personal growth and ser- CHORE Program: Serves the vulnerable and aging vice. Program is delivered during the school day or in an af- population by completing a home safety assessment ter school setting. and repairs. Boys & Girls Club of Somerset County American Red Cross Keystone Chapter 357 W. Fairview St., Somerset, PA 15501 (814) 445-1802 250 Jari Dr., Johnstown, PA 15904 (814) 262-3179 www.bgcsomersetcounty.org Serving Somerset County www.keystone-redcross.org Power Hour: Homework help and tutoring program which Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties offers support, resources and guidance necessary for Club Emergency Services Program: Responds to natural or Members to complete their homework and start the school man-made disasters in our communities to provide day with a sense of confidence and ability. assistance to the victims. Catholic Charities Beginnings, Inc. 321 Main St., Ste. 5G, Johnstown, PA 15901 111 Market St., Johnstown, PA 15901 (814)539-1919 (814-535-6538) Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties www.beginningsinc.org Emergency Financial Assistance: Alleviate the immediate Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties financial crisis to ensure that basic human needs are met. Parent and Child Together Program: Brings 2 & 3 year olds together with their parents and siblings for Coal Country Youth Center socialization and learning experiences in a small group 1102 Maple Ave., Northern Cambria, PA 15714 setting. (814)948-8493 Serving Cambria County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Pre-School Library: Provides staffing to an on-site Program: Advocates for the best interests of abused Library at the Pre-School/Daycare. and/or neglected children by recruiting, screening, Teen Center: Expansion of Youth Center in Northern Cam- training, and supervising court appointed community bria County which promotes healthy behaviors and provides volunteers. a safe place for teens to socialize. Behavioral Health Services of Somerset and Bedford Counties, Inc. Communities In Schools of the Laurel Highlands, Inc. 245 West Race St., Somerset, PA 15501 (814)443-4891 948 Ben Franklin Hwy., Ebensburg, PA 15931 www.bhssbc.us Serving Somerset County 1-800-462-1899 www.cislh.org Serving Cambria County Mental Illness Education & Support Groups: Educa- Surrounding students with a community of support tion & Support groups are held in Somerset County for through school day programs, and after school programs. both individuals with MI and their family members or loved ones. Easter Seals Western PA Mental Health First Aid: Participants from Somerset 232 Walnut St., Johnstown, PA 15901 (814) 535-5508 & Cambria Counties learn a 5-step action plan to help 571 E. Main St., Somerset, PA 15501 (814) 445-4834 an individual in a mental health crisis connect with ap- Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties propriate services. Speech & Hearing Program: Provides services to individuals with communication, speech, and/or hearing disabilities.

American Red Cross Keystone Chapter 250 Jari Dr., Johnstown, PA 15904 (814) 262-3179 www.keystone-redcross.org Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties Emergency Services Program: Responds to natural or man-made disasters in our communities to provide assistance to the victims.

Beginnings, Inc. 111 Market St., Johnstown, PA 15901 (814)539-1919 www.beginningsinc.org Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties Parent and Child Together Program: Brings 2 & 3 year olds together with their parents and siblings for socialization and learning experiences in a small group setting. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program: Advocates for the best interests of abused and/or neglected children by recruiting, screening, training, and supervising court appointed community volunteers.

Behavioral Health Services of Somerset and Bedford Counties, Inc. 245 West Race St., Somerset, PA 15501 (814)443-4891 www.bhssbc.us Serving Somerset County Mental Illness Education & Support Groups: Educa- tion & Support groups are held in Somerset County for both individuals with MI and their family members or loved ones. Mental Health First Aid: Participants from Somerset & Cambria Counties learn a 5-step action plan to help an individual in a mental health crisis connect with appropriate services.

United Way of the Laurel Highlands – Partner Agencies 2013-2014 Funded Programs Family Center The Learning Lamp 192 Smith Ave., Salisbury, PA 15558 (814)662-2721 2025 Bedford St., Johnstown, PA 15904 (814) 262-0732 www.capfsc.org Serving Somerset County www.thelearninglamp.org Parents as Teachers: Evidence based program which Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties focuses on parent-child interaction, development After School Outreach Program: Provides high-poverty centered parenting and family well-being through neighborhoods with high risk indicators a free communi- home visits and group settings. ty based drop-in afterschool program. Girl Scouts Western, PA One-on-One Tutoring Program: High-quality tutoring is 612 Locust St., Johnstown, PA 15901 (814) 536-5371 accessible to families of children that simply could not www.gswpa.org Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties afford the out-of-pocket expense. No child is ever turned School Based Education Program: Program is deliv- away from receiving this service. ered in school. Through this safe environment girls Pre-School Program: Provides scholarships to high- learn values such as having a strong sense of self and quality Pre-Schools. the development of healthy relationships. Drug & Alcohol Prevention Program: Delivers Camp Transportation: Free bus transportation to Botvin’s evidence based Drug & Alcohol prevention Summer Camp. program to Cambria County students in grades 6, 7 & 8. Goodwill Industries of the Conemaugh Valley, Inc. Mom’s House 540-542 Central Ave., Johnstown, PA 15902 1325 Franklin St., Johnstown, PA 15905 (814) 535-4848 (814) 536-3536 www.gicv.org www.momshouse.org Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties Empowering individuals and families with employment Mom’s House Childcare: Provides safe, secure and free barriers to achieve their fullest potential in the childcare and quality pre-school to single parents wishing community through work services. to continue their education. Home Nursing Agency Next Step Center 118 Ebony Rd., Ste. 200, Ebensburg, PA 15931 406 Stoystown Rd., Somerset, PA 15501 (814) 444-8588 (814) 472-4752 Toll Free 1-800-445-6262 www.capfsc.org Serving Somerset County www.homenursingagency.com Homeless Shelter: Case Management for individuals to Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties assist emergency shelter guests with searches for suita- The Healing Patch: Supportive services and ble housing, employment opportunities, budget counsel- resources for grieving children dealing with the death ing and other social service agency referrals as needed. of a significant loved one. Peer Empowerment Network (PEN) Behavioral Health Center for Counseling: Allows 514 Somerset St., Johnstown, PA 15901 children and adolescents ages 4 to 21 years of age, (814) 539-2724) Serving Cambria County who are uninsured, underinsured or cannot afford co- Drop-In Center: Peer-operated community based recov- pays, struggling with mental and/or behavior difficul- ery program for adults who experience serious mental ties to receive treatment immediately. illness. Johnstown Free Medical Clinic, Inc. Mental Illness Education & Support Groups: Education 340 Main St., Johnstown, PA 15901 (814) 534-6242 & Support groups are held for both individuals with MI Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties and their family members or loved ones. Free Medical Clinic: Provides free medical care to uninsured individuals. Individuals must meet income guidelines and be medically denied from the Depart- ment of Welfare. United Way of the Laurel Highlands – Partner Agencies 2013-2014 Funded Programs Salvation Army Johnstown Victim Services, Inc. 576 Vine St., Johnstown, PA 15901 (814) 539-3110 638 Ferndale Ave., Johnstown, PA 15905 (814) 288-4961 Serving Cambria County 427 Westridge Rd., Somerset, PA 15501 (814) 443-1555 Feeding Program: Provides meals and food to 24 Hour Hotline 1-800-755-1983 www.victimservicesinc.org financially struggling individuals and families. Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties Evening meals are provided 5 days a week. Direct Services to Victims: 24 hour hotline for immediate crisis intervention, accompaniment to crime related medi- Salvation Army Somerset cal, police and criminal justice proceedings, victim notifica- 140 East Fairview St., Somerset, PA 15501 tion, court orientation and preparation, crisis counseling (814) 445-9232 Serving Somerset County and support. Heating Program: Heating Assistance to Somerset Prevention Education: Free prevention education pro- County residents. grams to students pre-school through grade 12 in all school Somerset County Blind Center districts in Cambria and Somerset Counties. 748 S. Center Ave., Somerset, PA 15501(814) 445-1310 Prevention programs are also offered to individuals and www.sabvi.org Serving Somerset County professionals in the community. Blind Center: Somerset County residents who are visu- Vines of Hope/Skills of Central Pennsylvania, Inc. ally impaired have access to information and instruction 957 Rowena Dr., Ebensburg, PA 15931 (814) 472-1031 to remain as independent as possible. www.skillsofcentralpa.org Serving Cambria County Drop-In Center: Community Program and support net- Twin Lakes Center work for people with mental health issues. Offers physical, 224 Twin Lakes Rd., Somerset, PA 15501 educational and social activities in a safe and supportive (814) 443-3639 www.twinlakescenter.org environment. Serving Cambria & Somerset County Drug &Alcohol Prevention Program: Delivers Women’s Help Center, Inc. Botvin’s evidence based Drug & Alcohol prevention pro- 809 Napoleon St., Johnstown, PA 15901 (814) 536-5361 gram to Somerset County students in grades 6, 7 & 8. 124 N. Center Ave., Scull Bldg., Room 214, Somerset, PA 15501 (814) 443-2824 www.womenshelpcenter.org United Way of the Laurel Highlands Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties 422 Main St., Ste. 203, Johnstown, PA 15901 Women’s Help Center: Domestic violence center and (814)535-2563 emergency shelter serving Cambria and Somerset County. 120 W. High St., Ebensburg, PA 15931 (814) 472-6784 Services include a 24 hour hotline, information and referral, 127 N. Center Ave., Somerset, PA 15501 (814) 445-6927 counseling, advocacy, parenting sessions, violence preven- www.uwlaurel.org Serving Cambria & Somerset tion, transportation and emergency shelter. Counties Greater Johnstown YMCA Food Pantry Services: Provides administrative work 100 Haynes Street, Johnstown, PA 15901 and support for Emergency Food & Shelter program (814) 536-3519 Serving Cambria & Somerset Counties along with the Dept. of Agricultural grant for 19 food Middle School Youth Initiative: Curriculum and activity pantries across Cambria County. based approach to building assets needed by our youth. Community Outreach Services: Provides information Provides opportunities to learn about, participate in recog- and referral, advocates for those in need, funds work- nize and respect real life responsibility to real life situations force development, supports dislocated workers, mobi- that will have a lasting impact on their future and the deci- lizes volunteers and convenes services to collectively ad- sions they make as they grow into adults. dress community issues. Begin Swim: Free community based water safety program offering swimming lessons to children. GET HELP

Form a committee and make it a team effort. Be careful...NO ONE should feel pressured to give.

GET HELP

Don’t feel like you have to “go it alone.” In fact, FOLLOW THE LEADER the larger your workplace, the more important it is to recruit some help. More people we have helping on your campaign increases our ability Management to make a larger community impact. Participation of management is essential for a successful campaign. We already have their If your workplace has multiple support, or we wouldn't be conducting a departments or locations spread around campaign. So let’s leverage that support in town (like a school district), consider ways that can boost the credibility and im- recruiting others from each department portance of our effort. to serve on a committee. Ask them to personally endorse the cam- Ask US for help! We have a committee of paign with a personal letter or e-mail to volunteers dedicated to the campaign associates. ready to step in and assist you in making During your United Way presentations, your workplace campaign a huge success. have them address associates with the reason why your company participates or why they personally give.

Union Leadership, If Applicable Ask them to endorse the campaign with a personal letter or e-mail to associates. During your United Way presentations, have them address associates with the reason why their union participates or why they personally give.

7 IT’S ALL MATERIAL—ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES

BROCHURES. It’s important to make sure that everyone in the workplace is given a campaign brochure and pledge form so they can make an educated decision about giving.

PLEDGE FORMS. The most powerful way to invest in your community is Community Impact Fund. Funds designated to agencies (other than UWLH Partner THE VIDEO. Show it. At presentations. On your internal displays. Send the link via e-mail. It shows local volunteers in Agencies) will be assessed an administrative fee based action! on actual costs incurred by the United Way of the Lau- POSTERS. Don’t be shy. Take extras and plaster the walls of rel Highlands. Send a copy of pledge forms to your your workplace. We can even customize posters showing co- Payroll Department and the original pledge form to workers. Call us for details. United Way of the Laurel Highlands. Please encour- STICKERS. Perfect for employee ID badges. age donors to include their email address on the THERMOMETER. Track your campaign’s progress. DON’T SEE IT HERE? Log on to www.unitedwaystore.com for pledge form so we may keep them up to date on cam- more United Way-specific items and ideas that you can use for paign progress. Personalize forms before handing out your campaign. for a higher rate of return Every summer, United Way undergoes

A BUDGET. Depending on your workplace, you may an annual audit by an independent firm have some money to use for incentives, prizes, and to ensure the community that there is events. no fraud taking place within the CAMPAIGN VIDEO. Show it at presentations and in your internal displays. Send a link to our website workings of the organization. The audit www.uwlaurel.org . The video is available on our always includes a review of the homepage. It shows how lives have been changed for some of the recipients of United Way Funded pro- workplace campaigns, matching pledge grams. Our video each year is produced at no cost to United Way by: forms and cash receivables with bank statements and entries in United Way’s Wix Pix Productions 487 Griffith Ave., Mineral Point, PA 15942 campaign software. www.wixpix.com

POSTERS. Don’t be shy. Take extras and plaster the walls of your workplace.

THERMOMETER. Contact the UWLH for resources to track your campaign’s progress.

UNITED WAY STORE. Log on to www.unitedwaystore.com for more United Way specific items and ideas that you can use for your campaign.

8 HOW ARE YOU GOING TO MAKE “THE ASK?”

Find the time to schedule a 15-minute ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE

United Way presentation. These could Do you know the #1 reason why people say they occur during already-scheduled staff DON’T give to United Way? It’s because they were- meetings. United Way is able and will- n’t ASKED TO GIVE! That’s why your job as Cam- paign Champion is to ensure that EVERY person in ing to do the presentation multiple the workplace is formally asked to give. So how times to cover your various shifts and can we plan to ask each individual associate, and departments. We can do presentations do it effectively?

for as few as two people and for as Think first about how effective your “point- many as 2,000. of contact,” moment (the instant each person receives their pledge form) is going to be. In most instances, a person will make the decision to give or not within 10 sec- onds of receiving the pledge form. How in- spired will they be to give at that exact moment? Personalize pledge forms before handing out for a better return rate.

People give to people. The most effective “asks” include an educational piece along with the human element, the personal touch of a face-to-face plea. At the very least, include a story, an e-mail, or a letter explaining why their gift is needed.

Will they simply find a pledge form on their desk one day? Will it be left in their mail-

Presentations can include any of the box? These methods are not nearly as effective. following elements: Ask for a completed pledge form from eve- A testimonial from top management ry associate. Whether they give or not, if they fill out and return the form, we know A testimonial from union representa- they’ve been presented with the infor- tive, if appropriate mation and have made a conscious decision A testimonial from a co-worker who to participate or not.

may have received services Asking for a completed pledge form from A testimonial from a United Way every associate is not pressuring anyone to volunteer, staff person or agency give. It is simply ensuring that we did our job of making the opportunity available to representative everyone. Showing the United Way Video

9 SAMPLE SCRIPT FOR PRESENTATIONS

This sample script for a United Way workplace presentation should be used as a guide.

Introductions: By Workplace Champion / Manager / CEO

Start with a few words of endorsement by CEO, Manager, or Workplace Champion as to why the company is involved with United Way and how their workplace campaign is important. Explain that the United Way campaign is underway at your workplace and that all employees will be given the opportunity to participate and make their own, personal impact in our community. Introduce United Way speakers.

United Way Part I: By United Way Staff / Lead Volunteer

Thank the audience for their time and their past support. Share what the company raised for the community during its campaign last year and how they rank (if they rank high) among other workplaces. Explain that we’re here to share with them who we are, what we do, and how THEY can help. Who we are Mission Statement: To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community We’re local. Money raised here, stays here. NOT a chapter of the national organization. Local volunteers guide the organization to reflect the values and meet the needs of our counties. Discuss the Community Needs Assessment and Community Impact process.

How we LIVE UNITED: United Way Staff / Lead Volunteer

This is the main part of the presentation and should take up the most time. It should include one or more of the following, with lengths of presentation based on the total amount of time allotted. It will include personal stories and statistics, citing the needs of our community and what is being done to meet those needs.

Testimonial by United Way Volunteer, staff or Agency Speaker United Way Campaign Video Remember, the video is 10 minutes in length and cannot be shortened.

United Way Part II: By United Way Staff / Lead Volunteer

Highlight any program / Impact Area of note that did not get covered in the LIVE UNITED section, especially NEW programs or TOP FUNDED programs. State the financial information. 83 cents of every dollar goes directly to a program or service. This exceeds the Better Business Bureau’s standard of 65 cents/dollar and the state campaign guidelines at 75 cents/dollar.

10 SAMPLE SCRIPT FOR PRESENTATIONS

Distribution of Brochure / Pledge Forms: United Way Staff / Lead Volunteer

1. United Way Staff / Lead Volunteer explains the process of filling out the pledge forms, including details on: Leadership - $600 or more Incentives – car/TV and other prizes— $180 or more ($15 per month) Designations. Briefly explain that donors could designate their gift if they so choose, but the most powerful way to invest in our own community is through the general fund. Designations to agencies other than United Way of the Laurel Highlands or their Partner Agency will be charged a 12% administration fee

Workplace Champion explains any additional details pertaining to the company’s specific campaign, including: Goals Deadlines Internal incentives to give Upcoming internal “fun-raisers.”

Question and Answer: United Way Staff / Workplace Champion

Open the floor to questions. Refer to FAQ sheet for answers to most common questions.

UW Representatives: State that if you heard something during the presentation about a program that you, a family member, or a friend might need to take advantage of, encourage them to make the call.

Collection of Pledge Forms: Workplace Champion

Workplace Campaign Champion explains details for how/when employees should turn in their forms.

* Please try to complete your campaign by November 1st and provide to United Way the completed Company Report sheet, any cash collected and copies of employees pledge forms.

Volunteers are the life-blood of our organization. With just five paid staff members, United Way relies on volunteers like you for our success.

11 BEST PRACTICES

CONSIDER ONE OR MORE OF THESE IDEAS PROMOTE SUGGESTED GIVING LEVELS

A formal United Way presentation. Workplaces Humanitarian $5,000 to $9,999 that scheduled one last year raised 28% more Community Advocate $2,500 to $4,999 than the previous campaign. Leadership $600 to $2,499

FOOD ALWAYS DRAWS A CROWD. Provide re-

freshments at your United Way meetings. Coffee,

doughnuts, or fruit for morning events; pizza at

lunch; cookies, brownies, or ice cream.

Have a “funraiser” to supplement your payroll It only takes a pledge of $15 per deduction pledges. This will raise awareness and build camaraderie. month ($180 a year) to receive an entry into our drawing to win a Provide incentives for giving. Perhaps a casual dress day coupon or raffle off an item for all who NEW CAR! participate.

Establish friendly inter-department competitions, such as an office pizza party for the department that raises the most or has highest participation.

Incorporate United Way materials into your new employee orientation packet. Allow new hires to complete a pledge form as they sign on.

Ask your retirees. If you have regular communication with them, send them a pledge card and brochure.

Conduct an email blitz throughout your campaign highlighting the impact their United Way gifts make.

Post United Way announcements and stories on bulletin boards, in employee publications, and staff lounge.

12 SETTING AND ACHIEVING GOALS

BE PREPARED!

Be Prepared, that’s the motto of the Boy Scouts (a United Way Member Agency, by the way). Develop a plan of action that ensures all associates are educated about what United Way does and are asked to give. The plan should include obtainable goals for your workplace to achieve and to measure the success of our efforts.

Understand your campaign’s untapped potential.

Set a participation goal. To ensure that associates do not feel pressured, it is not recommended to set a participation goal above 80%. Set a dollar amount goal by reviewing last year’s average gift and set a realistic monetary goal. Increasing participation will help you reach the monetary goal

3. Set a goal of 100% ask. Make sure that everyone receives a pledge form. The most effective way is through distribution of pledge forms and brochures during United Way presentations at staff meetings.

4. Set a goal of 100% pledge form collection. This ensures that everyone has at least considered a gift to United Way and made a decision. It does not mean that they should be forced to give.

5. Set a deadline for forms to be returned and ensure that all pledge forms, even if not filled out, are collected.

6. Establish your campaign dates and develop a realistic plan to achieve your goals. While the period of direct solicitation within your workplace should typ- ically take one week, (no more than two), the campaign doesn’t just “happen.” Choose which of the best practices and fundraisers you will employ and prepare for them. Schedule United Way presentations in advance and plan the publicity efforts that will surround your campaign.

13 DON’T FORGET TO SAY THANKS

RECOGNIZE AND REWARD

Mom always taught us to say “Please” and “Thank You.” And saying “Thank You” may be the most important element in maintaining the long-term support you’ve worked so hard to achieve. That’s why United Way has developed a number of ways to thank and recognize generous donors and the hard-working volunteers within workplace campaigns.

United Way will send thank you notes.

Membership in United Way’s Leadership Club is a benefit for all who give $600 or more. Members are recognized in an annual publication (unless they wish to remain anonymous). THANK YOU IDEAS

Print half-sheet thank you’s on colored paper Will you help us thank donors internally with the United Way logo and your thank you for their participation? message. Post them on the cubicles of those who pledged, recognizing them for their generosity. Just a small token of appreciation is often enough to Late afternoon reception with snacks for all convey the message. You can use some of our extra those who gave. campaign items (pens, thank you stickers, etc.). Send an e-mail or thank you from your CEO. Perhaps a staff luncheon or pizza party can be Announce the total your organization raised coordinated. Even a simple postcard-sized letter of on posters, in e-mail, in your company news- thanks goes a long way toward making a donor letter. feel appreciated.

COMMUNICATING RESULTS TRACK YOUR PROGRESS Everybody loves a winner and jumps on a bandwagon when things are going well. Track your campaign’s progress and publicly report results to your co-workers as you move along. * Please try to complete your campaign by November 1st and provide to United Way the completed Company Report sheet, any cash collected and copies of employees pledge forms. 14 “FUN-RAISERS” IN THE WORKPLACE

SPICE UP YOUR UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN WITH ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES!

BAKE-OFF CONTEST OR SALE. Who makes the best apple pie in your office? Who’s got the best chocolate chip cookie recipe? Find out by having a bake-off and charge a “donation” for others to sample the entries and judge the winners. BABY PICTURE CONTEST. See who can match the most staff members with their baby pictures. BENEFIT DANCE. Organize an outing with co- workers and spouses to enjoy music, dancing, and fun. Ask for a cover charge. BOOK/DVD SALES. Have co-workers bring in their used books and videos and sell them to raise money for United Way. BOWLING FOR DOLLARS. Recruit some teams and have a group bowling night, raising money via CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT. Charge an entry fee entry fees or per pin donations. and set up brackets like the NCAA Tournament. CASUAL DRESS DAYS. Allow employees to dress CRAFT SALE. This allows employees a chance to down as incentives to make a pledge. If your share their hobbies and creative talents. business already has a casual or jeans day each DIET FOR UNITED WAY. Hold a contest to see week, try something different, such as Stupid Hat who can lose the most weight over a month-long Day, Outrageous Socks Day, or Favorite Sports period. Each person pays a set amount for every Team Day. pound lost or gained. CHAIR MASSAGE. Bring in a massage therapist for a day and allow all those who submit a pledge form to sit down to a relaxing chair massage. EASY INCENTIVES & PRIZES CHILI COOKOFF CONTEST. Employees cook their Sometimes, the best incentives or prizes don’t favorite recipe and enter it into the contest. cost much. Here are some low-cost/no-cost Participants pay to sample all of the entries. raffle items you can use if you’re working on a COIN WAR. Have departments compete to see shoestring budget. Get them from your who can collect the most loose change for United vendors, your own company, or local Way. Collect it in large water jug. Winning businesses. department gets a pizza party and bragging rights! Casual dress days Extra paid vacation day COMEDY HOUR/AMERICAN IDOL CONTEST. “Sleep-in” or “Long-lunch” passes Employees and their family members perform T-shirts, sweatshirts, company gear during this amateur hour! Shares of company stock Special parking spot COOKBOOK. Collect recipes and helpful Babysitting and restaurant gift certificates household hints from employees and publish Sports/Show/Movie tickets Free oil changes them with pictures from staff members’ children. Lottery tickets Sell them to benefit United Way. Prepaid phone card Unused corporate frequent flier miles or hotel stays Open/FREE vending machines

15 “FUNFUN BEST-RAISERSRAISERS” PRACTICES, IN IN THE THE CONTINUED WORKPLACE WORKPLACE

FASHION SHOW. Work with a local designer or PUMPKIN CARVING CONTEST. Plan a store to showcase the new seasonal or children’s Halloween theme and hold a pumpkin carving fashion line. Sell tickets to co-workers to watch contest. Have different categories so that you other co-workers model the clothing. can have FORMAL DRESS DAYS. Tired of casual Fridays? multiple Dress to the nines instead with prizes for the winners. fanciest dresses and snazziest tuxedos! Departments FRISBEE GOLF TOURNAMENT. New, free could carve courses have been installed in Marysville and their own and Plain City. Have a group outing and raise money enter them. just like a real golf outing. RAFFLES. GARAGE SALE. Have employees clean out their Have someone closets and set up a company-wide garage sale to donate a prize benefit United Way. (OSU football tickets, a weekend getaway at GUESS THE NUMBER. Fill a jar with x-number Hocking Hills, a car wash, pies) or raffle a paid pieces of candy, or some other item. For a day off. To enter the raffle, you must turn in a donation, co-workers can guess the correct pledge form with a minimum pledge. number to win the item. SCAVENGER HUNT. Employees have to find ICE CREAM SOCIAL.. Perfect gathering idea for a unusual items around the office or the potential United Way campaign presentation. neighborhood. INTRAOFFICE MINI-GOLF. Set up a mini-golf SCRABBLE TOURNAMENT. Have a Scrabble course at the workplace, using slinkies, ramps, tournament and the number of points you “water hazards,” sand traps. Enter teams and score equals your pledge to United Way! have a mini-golf outing just like one on a real SNACK CART. Go from workspace to course! workspace with baked goods or candies. KEY TO THE TREASURE. All who submit a pledge TAILGATE PARTY. Before the big Steelers, Pitt form at a certain level get a key to unlock at or PSU game, hold a Friday tailgate party at treasure chest of prizes. Only one key opens the lunch, complete with hot dogs, chips, music, chest. etc. PET PHOTO CONTEST. Employees post a picture TRICYCLE RACES. Set up a relay course in the of their pet(s) and co-workers pay an amount to parking lot and have contestants race through vote for the cutest, ugliest, most unusual, and while being timed. Observers can wage money funniest. on their favorites. PING PONG TOURNAMENT. Charge an entry fee VIDEO GAME TOURNAMENT. Set up three or and set up brackets like the NCAA Tournament. four game systems in a small conference room. Employees pay-to-play with prizes going to the top scorer in each game. VOLUNTEER. Organize a group from your workplace to participate in United Way’s annual Community Care Day. Check company policy regarding volunteer hours. Some will make corporate donations for hours

16 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY MONEY WHEN I GIVE TO UNITED WAY? A. Money raised here stays here in Cambria and Somerset County. When you give to United Way, we leverage your dollars locally to address the most critical needs in our community. Funding recommendations are made by our local volunteers who participate on the Community Impact Council. These volunteers review the funding requests of our Partner Agencies and conduct site visits. Then, balancing the overall needs of the community with the agency’s program funding request and amount of money available to allocate, they recommend a funding amount for the next year. United Way’s full Board of Directors approves funding.

WHAT IS UNITED WAY’S OVERHEAD? A. 17.1%. That means 83 cents of every dollar goes directly to programming, far exceeding the Better Business Bureau’s standard of 65 cents or more and the PA State campaign guidelines of 75 cents.

CAN I DESIGNATE MY GIFT? Yes. Designations must be to a 501 C (3) health and human service non-profit organization. Gifts to non- profits other than UWLH or its Partner Agencies will be assessed an administrative fee.

CAN I DESIGNATE TO MORE THAN ONE AGENCY? A. Yes, be sure to indicate how pledge should be split.

CAN I DESIGNATE ANOTHER UNUTED WAY? A. Yes – be sure to include address

WHEN IS THE CAR DRAWING AND DO I HAVE TO BE PRESENT? A. During a Johnstown Tomahawk's game, January, 2014 Winner does not have to be present. Winners will be contacted by UWLH staff.

CAN SPOUSES COMBIND PLEDGES IN ORDER TO REACH THE LEADERSHIP CLUB LEVEL? A. Yes. Be sure to fill out the spouse information on the pledge form including their employer.

HOW DO I GET HELP AND ACCESS THE FUNDED UWLH PROGRAMS? A. Contact UWLH Partner or Affiliated Agencies directly. Contact info for all agencies is listed in our campaign brochure. Or, if you are not sure who to contact, call the United Way office for guidance.

HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER? A. Simply call the United Way office at (814)535- 2563 or email us at [email protected]