Our Accountability
United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES) continues to hold a Platinum Seal with Candid/Guidestar, and is a recognized Four-Star organization with Charity Navigator, demonstrating our commitment to transparency.
UWLES is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, founded in Wicomico County, MD in 1944 by five local community leaders. We are governed by a 100% local Board of Directors. As an independent nonprofit, our fundraising and our impact are focused locally across Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties.
We completed our United Way Worldwide (UWW) 2024-2025 Membership filings and are in good standing as a network member. UWW has no governing authority over UWLES operations, fundraising, programs or community investments. United Ways share branding, best practices and the impact focus areas of Health, Education, Financial Stability and Emergency related needs. We are proud to collaborate with United Way Worldwide colleagues and are an active member of the Maryland Association of United Ways.
Voluntary Giving Policy
An individual’s choice of whether or not to contribute, as well as how much to contribute, is at the very basis of the United Way philosophy. The following principles outline United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore’s commitment to voluntary giving.
- Any use of pressure or coercion is unethical, and does far more harm to our organization and those we serve than any short-term gains it may produce.
- While 100% participation can be a fun statistic to celebrate, ask that donors participate to help make a difference, not as part of a quota.
- Contributing to United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore should be presented as an opportunity to help the community.
- The most effective workplace campaigns are the result of employee education about United Way and its partners.