EDITORIAL: Not the right Way this holiday

Outsourcing Penn's Way may reduce employee donations, and could tarnish the University's civic reputation. And because United Way contributions are only available to certain charitable organizations, employees who directed their money to specific groups may choose to give independently this year. Or they may not give at all. Deducting money from paychecks is the easiest way for most busy professionals to give to charity during the holiday season. And Penn benefits from employees' generosity through the real impact these donations have in the Philadelphia area and the positive media coverage it generates. It's unfortunate but understandable that some employees may reject the automatic donation this year. Administrators consistently emphasize the importance of responsibility for and service to the community, but they are setting a poor example by outsourcing fundraising for local charities and neighborhood organizations. Administrators should consider bringing the Penn's Way campaign back inside the University next year. By doing so, and perhaps by donating the time and costs associated with directing the campaign, the University can encourage employees to once again give through Penn.