The Guelph-Wellington-Dufferin community has shown its generous spirit once again, donating $3,576,650 toward the annual United Way fundraising campaign.
The announcement came on Dec. 18 at the campaign closing and volunteer appreciation event, where over 250 members of the community came together to celebrate their part in the organization’s record-breaking fundraising campaign.
“Every year we have obstacles to overcome, and this year was no different, but our community always finds a way to make it happen. Once again, our corporate partners and donors have shown incredible kindness and generosity,” said Bryan Larkin, United Way campaign chair.
“Thousands of people will be impacted by the money we can now invest in the community, and that is a wonderful thing.”
The County of Wellington was honoured at the event with the “spirit award” for hosting seven barbecues throughout the year and increasing its financial contribution by 21 per cent, donating over $60,000 to the campaign.
Eleven hundred people volunteered with United Way throughout the three-month campaign. Funds raised support more than 85 local social service programs at over 50 local agencies in Guelph, Wellington and Dufferin.
“We’ve seen lots of ups and downs during this year’s campaign, and the way the community rallied to make this happen was inspiring,” said Ken Dardano, executive director of United Way. “Funding requests from our local agencies have more than doubled this year, and this success will allow us to invest in even more local programs. Every dollar donated really does count.”
Linamar Corporation and the City of Guelph took home the award for campaign of the year (private and public sector respectively).
Employees at Linamar’s 24 plants raised a record breaking $651,729; City of Guelph employees also broke the City’s record with a total of $79,500.
The University of Guelph, Sleeman Breweries Ltd., Cargill Canada, The Co-operators and OMAFRA were also recognized with United Way awards.
The $3.57 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 8,000 donors contribute to United Way annually.
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin works with partners in all sectors to improve lives and build community.
