Let me make myself perfectly clear — I in no way have any problem with the United Way.

I write regarding the Aug. 8 article, “Life-changing stories touted.” There was a family, a young adult and two brothers recognized as Heroes of Hope — all deserving of this award, I might add.

In the same article there is a list of businesses that received various awards and special recognition for “signification contributions” to the United Way’s fundraising campaign in Butler County.

Here lies the problem I have personally.

We, as taxpayers of Butler County, pay various taxes to the county during the year. If I want to give my money to the United Way or another nonprofit organization, that should be my choice. We pay our taxes to Butler County and then the county commissioners choose who gets what amount of money from us, the residents, in the form of this tax money.

Can someone please explain to me why the commissioners continue to give so much financial support to the Butler County Community College?

In this article, BC3 was one of the businesses or agencies to be awarded the Live United Awards of Excellence by giving a significant donation to the United Way. It was not through employee donations, as that was another group, of which BC3 was not included.

As a senior citizen living on a fixed income, I resent the fact that the commissioners continue to give a significant amount of money to the college every year. Now, BC3 turns around and gives a significant donation to the United Way, through our tax dollars. Obviously, BC3 isn’t hurting for money in order for them to do this.

Am I the only one who doesn’t understand how and why this continues to be done by the commissioners, or are the rest of the taxpaying residents just blind to the frivolous spending? Perhaps the residents have just gone beyond caring. I hope not.