Conference taveng::bagels

911.0. "Matching Gift to UJA ??" by PCOJCT::MILBERG (I was a DCC - 3 jobs ago!) Sun Mar 25 1990 00:40

    My wife works for Federation (UJF of MetroWest (NJ)) and for the past
    couple of years we have sent in the Digital Matching Gift cards for
    both of our donations.
    
    For last year's gift, Digital did not immediately match, but sent a
    letter back (to the Federation) asking for all sorts of documentation
    on the organization.
    
    This week, they sent a letter stating that they would NOT match,
    stating the following:
    
    "We regret to inform you that after thorough review of the
    documentation it was determined that your organization is of
    discriminatory and/or religious nature and does not qualify under the
    guidelines of Digital's Matching Gift Program."
    
    It was signed by "Celia L. Therrien, Matching Gift Coordinator."
    
    
    Before I call and try to work the issue:
    
    1.	has anyone had gifts to either Federations or UJA matched?
    
    2.	if not, did you successfully 'appeal' and get the decision
    	reversed?  If so - to whom?
    
    
    	-Barry-
    

    I have been contributing to the Boston Combined Jewish Philanthropies
    for years and sending in a matching gift card without any problem.  As
    far as I know, Digital also matches Catholic Charities and some other
    religiously sponsored charities.  The key, I believe, is that the
    *services* be available on a non-discriminatory basis.  In the case of
    CJP, significant institutions it helps support (such as Beth Israel
    Hospital) serve everyone.
    
    					Aaron

I also give to CJP and get matched.  It is technically part of the United
Way campaign each year.  Since CJP is associated with UJA, there should not
be a problem.  Call the Matching Gift group (the woman who wrote you the 
letter) and discuss it.

    Digital is now matching donations to Hadassah as well.
    
    /sandy