1. What is the Endowment Fund?

The United Way Board of Directors recognizes that an organization involved in meeting vital human needs should have funds set aside for unbudgeted emergencies, administrative expenses, and innovative programs not otherwise met through the annual campaign. In 1968, using funds which had gradually accumulated since the inception of the Community Chest in 1922, United Way established an Endowment Fund for these purposes. The Endowment Fund enables the United Way to direct more campaign contributions toward services in our tri-state area.

2. How does the Fund help?

Thanks to the United Way Endowment Fund, 100% of the annual United Way campaign dollars go toward human services in the tri-state area. United Ways in communities without an endowment must generally allocate 10-15% of the community campaign funds for operating expenses. Because our community has an Endowment Fund none of the dollars collected are used for operating expenses.

3. Who manages the Endowment Fund?

An Endowment Committee of three or more volunteers is annually appointed by the United Way Executive Committee to manage the Endowment Fund. The committee currently invests equal funds through trust fund managers at three local banks and one outside entity. The use and investment of the Fund is governed by the By-Laws of United Way.