The Ethicist

In my "Values Based Leadership" class, our assignment was to write up an Ann Landers type question and answer article. Since the professor was a United Way officer, I figured this was a pretty good topic to bring up. Would love to hear your thoughts.

I am an employee at a large, Fortune 500 company. Every year, the company holds a United Way fundraiser with a target goal of x number of dollars. There are the typical kickoff parties complete with speakers, food, and drinks. As part of the fundraising, the company assigns us all a “Fair Share” suggested amount (which turns out to be a rather sizable percentage of our salary). Is it ethical for me to choose not to donate my “Fair Share” or even to donate at all? What if I fear career repercussions?

The decision to donate to the United Way or any cause, no matter how worthy, should be a personal one. It should depend on your economic ability, your passion for the cause, and beliefs. A suggested donation is appropriate; however, your employer’s choice of words to call it a “fair share” is unfortunate. Your choice to donate or not to donate should not affect your career; however, the company may point to their desire to improve the community they are located in to encourage employee donations. Feel free to talk to your HR representative about your United Way policy.