What is the State Employees Combined Campaign (SECC)?

The SECC is the official workplace charitable giving campaign for state employees.

Is the SECC a United Way campaign?

No. The SECC is an independent charitable giving campaign that is governed solely by state employees and subject to regulations expressed in the NC Administrative Code. The SECC State Chair contracts with a qualifying nonprofit organization to serve as the campaign’s administrator, but the State Chair in concert with the SECC Advisory Committee determine the campaign’s rules, regulations, and policies.

How are recipient charities chosen to participate in the SECC?

Any nonprofit organization may apply for admission to the campaign. Each application is subject to a rigorous and thorough review to assure that they meet the campaign’s eligibility requirements and that they fully comply with all applicable state and federal laws.

What are my payment options?

Pledges may be made by cash, check, credit card, or payroll deduction.

Why give by payroll deduction?

Most state employees find it easier to spread their contribution over a 12-month period rather than making a one-time contribution by cash or check. Payroll deductions will be taken 1/15/10 through 12/31/10.

Are contributions tax-deductible?

Yes, to the extent allowed by law. IRS regulations require certain documentation from you if you are claiming your contribution as a deduction. We advise that all contributors keep a copy of their pledge receipt and their end-of-year payroll deposit slip and that you consult with your financial adviser for additional information.

Who determines how my contribution will be used?

You decide by designating your contribution to one or more charities listed in the SECC Resource Guide. When you designate your pledge, you can be assured that it will be sent only to the charity that you wish to receive it. A minimum of $10 per year, per charity, is required for designations.

What happens to my contribution if I do not designate to a specific charity?

Campaign regulations require that all undesignated pledges are allocated to each charity receiving designated pledges in the same proportion. If Charity A receives 10% of all designated pledges, then Charity A will receive 10% of all undesignated pledges.

Can I make a pledge “In Honor” of someone?

Yes, show you care by making a pledge in honor of someone special. Provide their name and address and an acknowledgement will be sent to them.

What is the campaign’s overhead?

In 2009, the SECC overhead will be below 10%. Since 1992, the campaign’s overhead has been below 15%. Campaign staff and volunteers make every effort to identify cost-effective strategies for reducing campaign costs to assure that the greatest portion of each dollar you contribute reaches the charity you designate to receive it.