Every fall, United Way Ottawa raises money to invest in programs, services and initiatives that help thousands of people in our community and that will lead to long-term solutions to significant community challenges. We do this with the help of the private and public sectors, non-profit organizations, labour and the media — and the countless volunteers and donors who want to make a difference in this community.
An important component of the success of our annual community campaign is the Loaned Representative program. Employees from the public and private sectors are “loaned” by their employers for a 16-week period to help with the campaign. They bring great energy to the campaign. Without them, raising the needed dollars for our community would not be possible.
Loaned Representatives help to organize more than 1,800 workplace campaigns across the city. They facilitate and attend campaign meetings and events, mobilize support, promote the campaign, help recruit and retain volunteers and donors, and create awareness about how United Way is working to build a strong, healthy and safe community for all.
You can also contact Sue Hutton at 613-228-2504.
What’s in it for employers?
Benefits include:- increased staff morale when you demonstrate a commitment to your community
- recognition in workplaces in Ottawa, at United Way events, in print publications, on the website and in the local media
- a recharged employee — one who has learned new skills, absorbed fresh insights and ideas, made important contacts, is more confident and understands the community better
What’s in it for employees?
An opportunity to:- receive professional training and experience in fundraising, project and time management, public speaking, sales, communications and marketing, negotiation, strategic analysis and planning
- improve leadership, management and team-building skills
- learn how a successful campaign works
- build upon existing strengths
- make new contacts and create networking opportunities
- learn about the challenges facing our community and be part of United Way’s work that is making a difference in providing long-term solutions
How can you get involved?
Options include:- providing one or more of your employees to participate in the LR program
- sponsoring someone to be a LR
Our 2009 Participants
Our 2008 Participants
Dennis Jackson, District Vice-President, Scotiabank
"Scotiabank is long-time supporter of the Loaned Representative program. We understand the value of the program and benefit greatly from the results. The employees we send on this program come back to us re-energized with a new perspective on the work we do in our community. The leadership skills they acquire as loaned reps are just one of the many advantages of the program. They make a difference in how the returning LR conducts business on behalf of Scotiabank — and it is our experience that these skills continue to grow. I truly believe it is a win-win scenario for all involved."
Lynne Comeau, Loaned Representative Executive Assistant, MBNA Canada
"I always knew the important role that the community agencies play in people’s lives, but now I see just how strong the need is and where I can make a difference. The entire LR experience was very exciting and enriching. United Way gives LRs an extraordinary opportunity to contribute and help out in their community. I’ve learned new skills that have strengthened my professional tool kit while I’ve gained a new level of confidence and whole new community perspective."
John Klatt, Loaned Representative
Retiree
"It is important for me to continue to contribute to the community that I live in — both as an employee and a volunteer. By working as a LR and volunteer at United Way, I know that what I am doing is worthwhile and that I am making a valued contribution. The added bonus is that I am helping those who have the greatest need. It works well for me because the LR role is for approximately four months, so it allows me to really 'be retired' for the balance of the year."
Dana Yamamura, Loaned Representative,
The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
"This experience opened my eyes to what’s possible. I really got to know this community and to meet people who benefit directly from the work of the GCWCC. Being a LR sharpened my communication and negotiation skills. This in turn has bolstered the confidence I have in my abilities when I face new challenges and opportunities."
Gerry Ranger, Loaned Representative
CANADA Revenue Agency
"Working as a LR is not about daily routines. This is a whole new dimension of work that is high in team spirit, fully-charged direction and loads of fun. I worked with a team of individuals that I know will become life-long colleagues and friends. My experience as a LR was life-changing, on a personal and professional level."
