Regional staff made big contribution to United Way

June 29, 2016 · 0 Comments

By Bill Rea
The 2015 campaign by the United Way of Peel Region was a big success, and employees of the Region played a big part in that.
United Way President and CEO Shelley White appeared before Regional council recently to thank them and Peel staff for their efforts.
Regional staff (including Peel Regional Police) raised $436,138, and White accepted the contribution in a special cheque presentation.
She called the Regional effort “absolutely phenomenal,” adding in terms of employees and union personnel, the Region was the second largest money raiser in Peel (Suncor Energy was tops), and White said that says a lot about the commitment and leadership of council.
“These funds will be used to make a real difference,” White said.
United Way provides funds to 54 community agencies that deliver 89 services and programs to Peel residents.
“It saves lives,” White told councillors, pointing out some 187,000 people were helped in 2015, and they expect to do more of the same this year.
Regional CAO David Szwarc had plenty of praise for the staffers who led the campaign.
It was co-chaired by Grace Gyles and Kelly-Anne Salerno from Human Services, and Szwarc joked he refers to them as “Grace Kelly.”
“They did an absolutely amazing job,” he remarked.
He also pointed out supporting these various agencies works out well in the long run. He said without the support of United Way, these agencies would be before council seeking support.
“I’m continuously impressed by the support our employees show to the United Way of Peel Region,” Szwarc observed. “This spirit of generosity is just another example of our employees’ dedication to ensuring that everyone in Peel is able to live in a healthy, safe and connected community.”
“It’s great that we were able to raise the funds we have,” commented Caledon Councillor Annette Groves.
She also observed there’s a perception that there aren’t people in need in Caledon, and that’s not the case. She pointed out Caledon Community Services does a great job working those in need
“The commitment we have demonstrated to our community is inspiring and reaffirms the vital role the United Way plays in the Region of Peel,” said Regional Chair and CEO Frank Dale. “Partnering with community organizations, like the United Way, enables us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.”