Gates Challenge

The Gates Challenge "will ultimately raise more than $140 million and offset operating costs now charged to donors. Offsetting operating costs will allow more of the donations to United Way of King County to go directly to health and human service needs in King County.

"Donating both to the annual campaign and the Gates Challenge is one of the best ways for donors to maximize the impact of their giving:


 * The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will match Gates Challenge donations dollar for dollar.
 * A gift to United Way of King County goes to work today. A gift to the Gates Challenge ensures the future of United Way in our community.

"In 1999, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation gave a special $30 million grant to United Way of King County's Endowment Fund. This outright grant provided $1.5 million in income to United Way of King County beginning the very first year and grows over time. Additionally, it will match up to $55 million in gifts to the endowment."

"The Seattle Foundation administers the Gates Cost Reduction Endowment on behalf of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Additionally, all Gates Challenge endowment dollars are invested through The Seattle Foundation for United Way of King County."

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 * William H. Neukom