What is the County of San Mateo Charitable Contributions Campaign?
It is an opportunity for County employees to give back to the community through one-time or regular payroll deduction contributions made to charitable groups working on health, human services, environmental concerns and more.
Even a small amount per paycheck can go a long way toward providing needed support and services in our community. The minimum contribution is $1! See more information and the pledge form below.
You may begin donating to the charity of your choice at any time
Each fall, the Charitable Contributions Campaign Kickoff event is held at County Center and online. There is a dept. pumpkin display contest and a costume contest. This fun, team-building event serves to raise awareness of the Campaign, and serves as a reminder that employees may start or adjust a payroll-deducted charitable contribution. But employees can begin participating and adjust their giving at any time of year. Simply fill out the pledge form, and your contribution to one or more charities you care about occurs automatically each pay period. You will also find your total contributions for a calendar year on your first paystub of the following year. This may be helpful for tax purposes.
Which charities can I donate to?
Participating organizations include those within San Mateo County, and many more that fall under the umbrella of three charitable "Federations." Options include: Canine Companions for Independence, Health Care Heroes, Sheriff's Activities League, The Children's Fund, San Mateo County Parks Foundation, Wendler Substance Abuse Treatment Fund, Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries, The Adult Fund, Meals on Wheels, Homeless Fund, and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Federations ("umbrella" organizations that handle charitable giving for a variety of smaller orgs) also participate in the campaign: EarthShare of California, Community Health Charities of California, and United Way Bay Area. See the Campaign Brochure below for details about these organizations.
Who Operates the Campaign?
Coordinators from each department organize their department's drive. Optionally, charitable federation representatives can be invited to make presentations to department employees regarding the charities under their umbrellas, to aid employee giving decisions. Each fall, a Campaign Chair and staff put on a Campaign kickoff event to draw attention to the Campaign and the giving opportunity it provides to County employees.
Who Benefits?
Everybody. The programs and services of the non-profit organizations participating in the campaign make our community healthier, stronger and safer. During the campaign, you have the chance to learn more about the issues, the groups' work and what you, your family and your co-workers can do to help.
How Much Should I Contribute?
Giving is a personal decision. It depends on many factors, such as your income, your personal circumstances, and your concern about particular health, social and environmental problems. Your contributions can be made conveniently through payroll deduction, and you can give as little as $1 per paycheck! See the pledge form below.