What is it the United Way does? In a nutshell the United Way of South Sarasota County creates and has ongoing relationships with individuals,private and public sector companies and organizations who through their financial support enables the United Way of South Sarasota County to support twenty-six local agencies and provide funding for forty programs. These programs are all geared towards helping children, adults and seniors in need and the programs serve the people of Venice, North Port, Englewood, Laurel, Nokomis and Osprey.

Where are you located? The United Way of South Sarasota County is located in the South County Resource Center just North of the Manatee Community College. The address is 7810 S. Tamiami Trail, A-4, Venice, FL 34293. If you would like to visit our location please call 408-0598 for directions.

Where do I find information regarding the agencies you support? You can go to "About Us" on our website and you will find all of the United Way agencies listed under our community impact areas. A list of agencies that have websites is also listed under links.

How do people get help from United Way? The United Way of South Sarasota County does not provide any direct services. As indicated above we fund agency programs. The best way to find out where help is available is to contact United Way 211 by dialing 211 or 308-HELP. Information can also be accessed by visiting www.uw211manasota.net

Who decides what programs are funded? Each year a team of local community volunteers comprising of a varied cross section of our community review applications for local funding. The community impact committees visit the agencies that have made an application, reviewing financial data, program information and then make their recomendations to the Volunteer Board of Directors. In simplified terms who better than those individuals who live in our community could we select to make the recomendations for funding. Should you wish to be a part of the process simply call 408-0595 or
e-mail steve@uwssc.com

Are there volunteer opportunities with United Way? There are various committees where we can use your help. Please call 408-0595 or e-mail steve@uwssc.com for further information.

If I want to send a donation what should I do? If you vist the Donate section of our website you will find the information that details how you can make a donation.

I am interested in getting more information. Who should I contact? Please call Steve Brett at 408-0595. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

My Company would like to support United Way. How do we get this going? Call 408-0595 and we will set up an appointment to visit with you and discuss how to run a successful campaign.

I thought United Way is a national organization. Am I wrong? Each United Way serves the community where they are located. All United Way's belong to the national UnIited Way of America which is the governing body ensuring compliance. 1% of the campaign total is paid to the United Way of America and 99% stays within each local community. Programs funded are all local unless a donor directs otherwise.