Whether it’s giving a gift or donating a dollar to Salvation Army on your way into the grocery store, the holidays are centered on thinking of others. United Way of San Luis Obispo County (UWSLOC) focuses on giving all year-round, enhancing education, financial stability and health for San Luis Obispo County. United Way creates lasting change by emphasizing contributions to resources that identify and eliminate the underlying causes of social problems that exist within our community. There are many ways to give back during the holidays, beginning with United Way. Here are some helpful (and potentially tax-deductible) things you can do to help:
Donation Decisions
United Way takes donations in multiple forms, including online, by phone or by mail. For those interested in an easy monthly donation, United Way has a great Workplace Giving Program that deducts a donation each pay period. As little as $5 per paycheck can make a huge difference when pooled with other donations. They also accept in-kind donations. Donated items available to non-profits or community groups in SLO County are posted on the Opportunity Exchange, which can be found here. To make an online donation, click here.
Volunteer Opportunities
There is always a need for volunteers at United Way as they are essential to the grant process. Each Spring, grant readers review Community Impact Fund applications and make funding recommendations to the UWSLOC Board of Directors to ensure a fair and equitable means for distributing the funds raised. United Way also powers VolunteerSLO, an online volunteer resource for SLO County that helps those in need find a volunteer match. To see what volunteer opportunities are available within SLO County, visit http://www.volunteerslo.org.
Take Action
United Way is dedicated to making a difference in SLO County, and there are many ways you can join their mission. Volunteers at United Way receive a valuable experience when they donate their time for a good cause. They may also receive a free LIVE UNITED shirt, which is a constant reminder of how they helped to improve the lives of their neighbors in San Luis Obispo County.
For more information about United Way’s programs or donation options, visit http://www.unitedwayslo.org or call (805) 541-1234.
