Further to the scam that was committed in the Shuswap and North Okanagan in the name of United Way. I would like to offer a few words of clarification following the initial media coverage.
We sincerely regret that these criminals took advantage of some generous donors who were fraudulently led to believe that the door-to-door campaign was a legitimate fundraising activity for our United Way. This United Way has been supporting our region for over 50 years. Of the 28 community partners that we support, 11 of them serve the people of the Shuswap.
We do not canvass door-to-door. We strive to offer secure methods for our donors to support us. These safe options include making a pledge at your workplace, in the form of a cheque in the mail, online at www.unitedwaynocs.com or by calling our office to give by credit card.
The people who have been scammed will eventually, after an investigation, be reimbursed by their banks as this is definitely a case of fraud. It does however cause them stress and hardship in the meantime. United Way is not held liable for these funds; sadly, it’s our reputation that is the other victim in this crime.
Thank you for all the concern and well wishes that have been expressed and we mirror these thoughts to those individuals who have been harmed by this fraudulent act.
Linda Yule, Executive Director
United Way North Okanagan Columbia Shuswap
