United Way Launches Services To National Companies

Ten United Way affiliate CEOs from across Australia gathered in Sydney recently to launch United Way’s National Services Program.

United Way Sydney CEO, Bill Downing says the initiative provides a solution for companies with a national reach who want to provide their staff with opportunities to support their local communities in an effective and meaningful way.

Downing adds that these services – based on a theme of ‘your way to make a difference’ – include volunteering, employee giving and activities for staff to experience the impact of their contribution. It takes the emphasis away from traditional corporate giving to a staff owned and staff-driven program of community engagement.

Already four corporations have partnered with United Way: Fuji Xerox Australia, Mercer Human Resources Consulting, GE Commercial and Boeing Australia

Phil Chambers, the Managing Director Fuji Xerox Australia is says

“It is important to us that our staff around Australia can share in our Community Care Program and United Way’s network of affiliates is helping us to deliver a truly national program. As a result, we’re seeing more and more of our staff getting involved and making a difference to the communities in which they live and work.”

Bill Downing says United Way makes a promise to its donors regarding all the projects that it funds and is involved with.

 all distributions support health and welfare activities in local communities
 all projects are evaluated according to proven and established criteria.
 suitably qualified volunteers assess all projects and allocations.

On an annual basis United Way evaluates submissions to support projects in the local community on “proof of needs” basis. The selection process involves an independent committee of volunteers reviewing each submission, conducting interviews and visiting human care agencies to assess their needs, performance and results.

For more information about United Way’s National Services Program check out the web site at www.unitedwaysydney.com.au.