Tuesday, December 2, 2008, Ottawa – United Way/Centraide Ottawa announced this evening the results of the 2008 community campaign – $29,921,000. This amount exceeds the $29.3 million announced at last year’s achievement by more than $600,000 and sets a new record for giving in this campaign. More than 500 United Way/Centraide supporters, volunteers and donors attended the celebration at the Hampton Inn and Conference Centre. The 2008 campaign was launched on September 24 with a goal of $31 million.
“This year’s campaign has been about the promise we share, and tonight’s achievement is a celebration of how the community has pulled together to create a better today and a promising tomorrow,” said 2008 campaign chair Sal Iacono. “This is an inspiring achievement, and I’m honoured to have had the chance to be a part of something so positive for our community.”
The 2008 United Way/Centraide campaign featured some outstanding high points. Last week the Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign announced an impressive achievement of $19,123,000 for the National Capital Region (NCR). This total represents $15.9 million for United Way/Centraide. The rest goes to United Ways/Centraides in other regions, to Healthpartners and other registered Canadian charities.
Once again, the retirees sector made a record contribution to the community campaign. The group raised more than $1,454,717 this year. The generosity of the retirees was evident as donors contributed larger gifts in response to the growing need in the community.
A first for the United Way/Centraide community campaign, high-tech companies in the city went head-to-head in their workplaces with a challenge. The winner of the inaugural challenge was Veritaaq. The IT staffing specialists pulled together their team of 20 employees and raised $10,906. Another workplace campaign success story is from the Ottawa office of American Express. Campaign participation increased significantly from 47 per cent in 2007 to 75 per cent. With this surge in support, American Express raised $26,230 – $10,718 more than last year.
“The goal this year is certainly an ambitious one and became more challenging with unprecedented economic and political uncertainties,” said Michael Allen, United Way/Centraide President and Chief Executive Officer. “But during these chaotic times, people have come through. Donors know they can make a difference in the lives of others in this community.”
Typically, the United Way/Centraide campaign sees additional donations in the weeks following achievement. There are still workplace campaigns that need to wrap up, and United Way/Centraide is calling on people who may not have had the opportunity yet to consider making a contribution for their community.
“Our job is not done. We still have a gap to fill,” said Iacono. “There are people in the community who need support even in strong economic times. Now more than ever, the community needs help, especially from people who can give.”
Iacono emphasized the importance of community spirit for this year’s campaign. ”I have been lucky to spend the last 10 weeks out in the community and visiting workplaces. The enthusiasm and effort infused into fundraising demonstrates how committed this community is to helping others. Countless volunteers and supporters have brought to life the promise we share in our community.”
To make a donation, please call 613-228-6767 or visit www.unitedwayottawa.ca.
About United Way Ottawa
United Way/Centraide Ottawa’s mission is to bring people and resources together to build a strong, healthy, safe, community for all. By bringing people together from all parts of our community to identify, develop and provide solutions to community needs, we promise that the donations we receive go where they are needed most. In 2008, United Way Ottawa made a record community investment to support more than 200 projects, programs and partnerships, in more than 100 community organizations.
For more information on United Way/Centraide Ottawa, please contact:
Kate Headley, United Way Ottawa
Phone: 613-683-3823 or Cell: 613-294-8128
E-mail: kheadley@unitedwayottawa.ca