Louroz Thanks Community for Supporting 2008 United Way Campaign
"In a difficult year, your compassion gives hope. Thank you for your generosity. Without you, there would be no way." - Louroz MercaderFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 5, 2009
United Way campaign reaches its second-highest achievement
MISSISSAUGA — Despite some of the worst economic news in years, organizations and individuals from across Peel came together in an outpouring of generosity, helping United Way raise $12,517,812 in its 2008 campaign, United Way CEO Shelley White said today at the campaign wrap-up celebration at the Pearson Convention Center.
“We were faced with tremendously challenging economic conditions in 2008,” White said. “I’m so proud of everyone in our community. They dug deep, driving United Way to the second-highest campaign achievement in our history.”
Last September, United Way announced an aggressive campaign goal of $13.5-million, aware of the rapidly growing needs in Peel region. However, the economic turbulence of the past weeks and months sent many individuals and companies reeling.
“We knew we were going to face challenges in the 2008 campaign, but no one expected them to be of the magnitude we experienced,” said Campaign Chair Sean Smith, President of IKON Office Solutions. “Given these extraordinary economic times, we are calling this campaign a tremendous success.”
The money raised in the 2008 campaign support a wide variety of services, programs and initiatives in Peel. This includes a network of 118 programs in more than 50 local social service agencies, community partnerships such as Success By 6 Peel, and grants to support neighbourhood development and social purpose enterprise.
“We know that there is still much work to be done and we expect 2009 to be even more challenging,” said United Way Board Chair Joseph Palumbo. “As the economy continues to worsen, we know that more and more people will turn to agencies supported by United Way. Our first commitment is to provide stable funding for these agencies. It’s in hard times such as these that we show what we’re made of. I am convinced that by working together we can face the tough times ahead.”
United Way of Peel Region was established in 1967 and serves the communities of Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga. Through its Community Fund, United Way invests in services, programs and initiatives that develop resilient people, grow strong families, and build vibrant neighbourhoods and communities. The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.
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Liz Leake
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(905) 602-3624
