Monday, December 29, 2008, Ottawa - United Way Ottawa is reporting today that the 2008 community campaign has to date raised $30.4 million, or 98.1 per cent, on a goal of $31 million. At the campaign achievement event in early December, United Way/Centraide announced it had raised $29.9 million. Typically, the United Way/Centraide campaign sees additional donations in the weeks following achievement.
"Thanks to the generosity of this community, we have made solid progress in recent weeks," said 2008 campaign chair Sal Iacono. "There is still work to do before we achieve our goal and it will be tough. But it seems we are within striking distance and if we continue to work hard and people respond, we have a chance of achieving our goal."
This year, some workplaces are extending fundraising efforts and new campaigns are coming on board. Individual donors have also been increasing the size of their gifts to reflect the growing need.
"The mood right now is quite sombre and difficult," said Michael Allen, United Way/Centraide President and Chief Executive Officer. "But in spite of that, there's a desire in the community to find a positive spirit. People still care for others, they want to make a difference and want to be a part of something good. United Way/Centraide presents an opportunity where donors know they can create change in their community."
About United Way/Centraide 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 Ottawa, please contact:
Kate Headley, United Way Ottawa
Cell: 613-297-2845 E-mail: nbaker@unitedwayottawa.ca