Last week, the United Way campaign by Queen’s University was launched in support of the organization’s social services and programs for the local community. The university is the biggest contributor to the event and hopes to raise $315,000.
Commenting on the announcement, staff co-chair Shelley Aylesworth-Spink said “The generosity of the Queen’s community for the United Way means that many, many people can get the help they need in Kingston and the area.”
The United Way campaign serves Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington and provides support and aid to an entire network of social service and health agencies, impacting the lives of thousands of people yearly.
The labour co-chair, Sherri Ferris, also strongly expressed that many great organizations are aided by the United Ways campaigns, and is happy that their efforts will serve to make lives better for needy children and youth.
“The United Way supports a lot of good programs for children and youth who are underprivileged and need that extra helping hand,” said Ferris.
In addition, many of Queen’s retirees are aware of the University’s campaign and continue to support it even after their retirement.
Carl Hamacher, co-chair for retirees, said “In the 2009 annual campaign, the retirees group responded once again with a very generous increased level of donations, providing much needed help for many members of our community.”
Faculty co-chair, Nick Graham, added “The campaign is a really great way for us to contribute to our community.”
Student co-chair, Leia de Guzman, also stated that many students are happy to be involved in the United Ways campaign and are planning to organize and volunteer at a number of fundraising events. Guzman commented, “It is important for Queen’s students to gain awareness about the needs in the community and also make a positive impact as Kingston is our home for the next four years.”
The date for the annual United Way barbeque will be announced shortly and information and pledge cards are already being sent out in the mail.
A campaign video has also been uploaded onto YouTube:
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Photo courtesy of the Queen’s University News Centre
Caption: Queen’s United Way campaign team members Shelley Aylesworth-Spink, staff co-chair, Sherri Ferris, labour co-chair, Allison Bailey, human resources staff, Sandra Valente, human resources staff, and Nick Graham, faculty co-chair, help unveil the thermometer. The university’s campaign goal this year is $315,000.
