PROVO — Implementation of an Enhanced Membership Standard, recently adopted by the national United Way, should be virtually seamless for the United Way of Utah County, officials say.
The new standards are designed to make it easier for people to understand United Way financial practices. The comprehensive upgrades will make United Way reporting practices more consistent throughout the country.
"The vote on the new standards is a mandate by United Ways across the nation for increased accountability," said Bill Hulterstrom, president and CEO of United Way of Utah County.
"The resounding approval demonstrates the willingness of independent United Ways to work together to ensure the United Way system remains the trusted partner of those who strive to make our communities better," he said.
The enhanced standards require the following:
All members agree to participate in, and submit to United Way of America, a community-driven self-assessment of their community impact work, financial management, decision-making and organizational governance. These assessments will be reviewed by a group that includes United Way volunteers, professional leaders and outside experts.
Local United Ways agree to report full revenue and expense data to United Way of America for third party review.
The 170 largest United Ways — representing 75 percent of the $3.9 billion raise in the 2001-2002 campaign — will also submit their annual reports, IRS 990 forms, financial audits and codes of ethics to United Way of America for third party review.
For more information about the United Way of America or United Way of Utah County visit the Web site at www.unitedwayuc.org