Withdrawing United Way pledge?

Question

Over the past 25 years, I estimate I donated somewhere around $10k or so. This year I upped my pledge considerably over the past years and designated a United Way organization in New Orleans helping Hurricane Katrina victims, which I am about to volunteer with for the second time. However, I just received a letter from my local United Way office here in Ohio stating that I cannot donate to them because "it does not qualify as eligible under the parameters of our donor choice policy". Further, it states "This organization is located outside of the central Ohio area". They end with "If we do not hear from you within 14 days, we will transfer your gift to the United Way of Central Ohio's Community Impact Fund".

Since they refuse to donate to my designated area, can I withdraw my pledge and send the money myself? If not, I'll refuse to donate another cent thru them.

Thanks.

Answer 1

I'd let them hear from you.  Loud and clear TOMORROW.

They cannot reallocate your gift on a whim,you do have the

right to withdraw it.