What is the Directed Giving Alliance?

  The Directed Giving Alliance is a group of local nonprofit organizations that encourage donors to contribute directly to the charities they support.


  Who are the member agencies of Directed Giving Alliance?

  Click here for the complete list of member agencies along with information about each mission.


  How long has this group existed?

  The Directed Giving Alliance was convened in 2005 by the Rochester Area Foundation after some nonprofit agencies had their United Way funding either eliminated or significantly reduced.


  Are Directed Giving agencies a part of the United Way?

   None of the Directed Giving agencies are United Way of Olmsted County member agencies.


  Is there proper oversight of donations given to the nonprofits involved with Directed Giving?

  Yes.  Each member of the Directed Giving Alliance has their financial operations audited annually by an independent group:  Local Independent Charities of America (L.I.C.).  

  L.I.C. has awarded each member of the Directed Giving Alliance with their "Seal of Excellence" award.    The "Seal of Excellence" states that each organization meets the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectivenes.

  Of all charities nationwide, only about 5% of all nonprofits are thought to meet or exceed the standards of the L.I.C. "Seal of Excellence".    

 Click here for more information about the L.I.C. Seal of Excellence.


  Is it easy to give through the Directed Giving form?

  Yes!  On the Directed Giving payroll deduction form, simply check the box next to the charity (or charities) you wish to support.  You can choose one, two, or even all of them!


  Is there an administration fee?

  Yes.  The administration fee is 8%.  This fee is substantially less than other workplace campaigns.


  Is it more efficient for the organizations involved to receive funds through Directed Giving?

  Yes!  Efficiencies are increased.  When supporters donate through Directed Giving, the administrative costs are significantly less compared to other workplace campaigns.   The lower costs of Directed Giving help each organization to focus on fulfilling their missions that are important to you!


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