The same thing happened to my mother.
Teachers were told to give and if not, their names were announced.
It is truly appalling
I find it appalling that companies pressure people to contribute. It makes the company look good in its PR. Otherwise, the company could otherwise not care less.
Yes, you CAN, on your contribution card, specify specific charities. I’ve specified the Boy Scouts, for example. Charities under United Way vary. For example, ultra-left entities are supported in CA, while the Boy Scouts are not. Conversely, in Texas, the Boy Scouts are supported.
Make your decision on what you want to do. But remember, if you’re getting a bulk-mail shot from your bosses’ boss, regretably there may be some reprocussions if you don’t contribute. Sorry, but there it is.