The Guelph-Wellington-Dufferin community has shown its generous spirit once again, raising a record-breaking $3,416,481 toward the annual United Way fundraising campaign.
United Way officials made the announcement on Dec. 15 at the Sleemen Centre in Guelph, just prior to the start of the Guelph Storm game.
“Every year we have obstacles to overcome, but our community always finds a way to come through. Once again, our corporate partners and donors have shown incredible kindness and generosity,” said Jim Jarrell, campaign chair.
Eleven hundred people volunteered with United Way throughout the three-month campaign. Funds raised by United Way support more than 85 local social service programs at over 50 local agencies in Guelph and Wellington and Dufferin counties.
“Funding requests from our local agencies have almost doubled this year and we are seeing many agencies struggle with government funding cuts,” said Ken Dardano, executive director of United Way.
“With this four per cent increase over the amount raised in campaign 2012, we can invest even more in local programs. Every dollar donated really does count.”
The $3.41 million total is based on received and pledged dollars, with some workplaces continuing campaigns through to the new year.
More than 200 workplaces took part in the campaign, and more than 8,100 donors contribute to United Way annually.
This year’s campaign was spearheaded by University of Guelph and Linamar, raising $591,392 and $584,000 respectively.
