This is a great organization to donate to. They are able to allocate the funds to specific areas to assist the people of Hawaii. If you prefer, you can even designate which non-profit agency receives 100% of your donation. I've been giving to AUW for over 20 years now!
Review from Guidestar
You should analyze their form 990 to see where the money goes, how it is spent, and where it is wasted. I was a long time donor until someone showed me their taxes. I no longer donate to Aloha United Way. An example is their Society of Young Leaders activities which breaks even and doesn't profit. SYL should focus less on social activities that benefit themselves and focus on the community which is what they get paid for. Tax info is public information and the public should look at it to assess overall management of donations. I give monies directly to programs and avoid these non-profits.
I believe that Aloha United Way used to be a good organization with a solid foundation, good leadership, and a strategic vision for its future. Under its current leadership, however, AUW has foundered. It has lost some major corporate donors, and most likely it will continue to lose major sponsors, to the point that I fear it will no longer be able to sustain itself as a non-profit.
To any individual considering making a donation to AUW, I urge you to take a closer look. AUW cannot tell you how the funds it raises are really helping the community. You will be better off donating directly to the charity of your choice rather than giving it to an agency with such a vague mission and an eroding support base.
Review from Guidestar