The United Way of the Great Salt Lake Area operates independently and is not affected by investigations, policy or personnel in the national organization.
"United Way of America is our trade association," said Ann Lloyd, communication director for the local United Way. "It is not involved in our fund raising at all. Our local organization pays about 1 percent of what it raises as dues to UWA. For that, we get a marketing department, resource materials, training, workshops, personnel development, computer supports. Our community receives a great deal of benefits from our dues."Policy is another matter, she said. Local board members make all decisions for the agency. "We are so separate from them because of the structure and purpose - that's to serve the local community - that we have absolutely nothing to do with them aside from the resources they provide."
The question arose Monday when the New York Times reported that William Aramony, president of United Way of American for more than 20 years, is being investigated for "lavish spending and free-wheeling management."
After an early investigation, he received a unanimous vote of confidence from United Way board's executive committee. A Washington law firm is now conducting a broader review.
Member organization dues provide most of the national agency's $28 million budget, but some local groups are withholding dues until the investigation is complete April 2. Aramony reportedly earns $463,000 in salary and benefits.
The United Way of the Great Salt Lake Area paid about $61,000 in dues from its 1991 campaign.