Frequently Asked Questions About WUP

What is Women United in Philanthropy?

Mission: To engage with like-minded women, learn about philanthropy, and leverage collective giving for local women and children.

We are committed to:

• Providing informative events that build relationships among women who are united in their commitment to enhance the community
• Creating and cultivating an inclusive membership of women through formal gatherings and smaller informal events
• Establishing a Collective Fund through Memberships to support community projects chosen by an educational and voting process
• Stimulating increased philanthropic giving for human services in our community

How can I participate in Women United in Philanthropy?

Join. Women United in Philanthropy is a Collective Giving organization. The more you give, the more we can give. We have Individual Memberships starting at only $100/year. Corporate Membership and Underwriter options are also available. Click here to view our Membership page.

We are also actively looking for members to join one of our Committees.

How does Women United in Philanthropy partner with United Way-Thomas Jefferson Area?

Women United in Philanthropy was established by community women in partnership with United Way-Thomas Jefferson Area. United Way provides support services such as staffing, mailing, computer, telephone, and accounting for Women United in Philanthropy, but receives no contributions from WUP.

Giving to Women United in Philanthropy does not represent giving to United Way. United Way does not determine how WUP funds are spent. Only Women United Members can vote on funding decisions.

How will my WUP gift be used?

Women United in Philanthropy donations will establish and encourage the growth of the WUP Collective Fund, which supports human service needs of women and children in the City of Charlottesville and the surrounding Counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Nelson, Greene, and Louisa. Members will research options on proposed uses of the Fund and will determine, by voting, allocation of the Fund.

Can I direct my Women United in Philanthropy gift to a specific charity?

No. Women United in Philanthropy gifts must go to the WUP Collective Fund. Our Grant Committee has a rigorous process to collect and review proposals from non-profits. Through financial review, on-site visits and committee engagement, the Grant Committee selects finalist organizations each year. The WUP Membership then determines, by voting, allocation of the Fund.

What are the benefits of participating in Women United in Philanthropy?

WUP benefits its Members as it benefits the community. Participants have the opportunity to:

• Get to know women from many walks of life who care about the community
• Learn about our community's needs, organizations, programs, people, and how to give wisely
• Tailor their involvement to fit personal circumstances and priorities
• Be a force for change through sound giving

I’m a  Women United in Philanthropy member, how do I nominate an organization or agency? 

In order to nominate an agency or organization for a Human Services Grant Award, you must:

• be a current WUP Member, and
• email a description of the organization along with contact information for an individual that will serve as the point of contact, and
• send the nomination by the grant cycle deadline

I serve an organization that qualifies for a grant proposal, how do I get my organization or agency nominated?

To be considered for a grant, an organization must be nominated by a member of Women United.

What are the eligibility requirements to be considered for a WU grant?

To be eligible for nomination by a WUP member, an organization must:

• be a 501(c)3 human services organization
• serve women and/or children in the Planning District 10 which includes the City of Charlottesville and the Counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson
• not have been awarded Women United grants in the previous two grant cycles
  
• be nominated by a WUP member by the grant cycle deadline