What is the Decatur County United Fund? United Fund is a local organization, run by volunteers and a small staff. It is best known for its role as an efficient fund-raising organization. United Fund is able to raise funds for many different non-profit agencies at a low cost. If all agencies raised their own dollars individually, their administrative costs would be much higher. How Does the Decatur County United Fund Work? United Fund conducts an annual county-wide campaign that raises funds from individuals, employment campaigns and businesses. The funds are then distributed to non-profit agencies who serve Decatur County residents. How are Funds Distributed? The Decatur County United Fund Allocations Committee, which consists of United Fund Board members and community-at-large volunteers, reviews applications from agencies requesting funding to support community programs in Decatur County. The Allocation Committee recommends how dollars should be spent. This committee carefully reviews community needs and bases funding on the most critically needed programs and services, paying careful attention to programs which will utilize United Fund donations efficiently and effectively. History: In 1956, Chamber of Commerce President, Charles Newlon, was instrumental in the formation of the Decatur County United Fund. Along with Hartford Sallee he spent many hours visiting the townships to interest them in their proposed organization. Many hours and many meetings later, the Decatur County United Fund became a reality in 1957. It was incorporated under laws of Indiana on May 6, 1957 with 12 Board members: Rev. Stanley Dodson, Lowell Headlee, Walter Lowe, Ed Neimeyer, Charles Newlon, Al Page, Robert Platt, Ralph Ponsler, Hartford Sallee, Leland Taylor, Hubert Wickens and Wallis Wood. The office was located at 212 North Franklin Street. The first budget ( $54, 554 ) ; nine agencies funded ( $37, 350 ) ; administration budgeted ( $17, 204 ).