This achievement was announced today (Dec. 9, 2009) at the campaign closing celebration, with over 250 United Way volunteers in attendance.

The $2.66 million raised is based on received and pledged dollars, as some workplace campaigns continue to wrap-up into January.  The total raised is $10,000 over the campaign goal announced in September.

Alastair Summerlee, the outgoing United Way campaign chair, thanked the entire community for coming together for the United Way.  “Every workplace that contributes, every individual donation, no matter the amount raised, makes a significant difference in our community,” said Summerlee.  “The United Way couldn’t support the 80 programs it does without each and every donor and volunteer.”

Cargill Meat Solutions and the provincial employees at One Stone Road were recognized as United Way Campaigns of the Year.  Both saw an increase in the number of their employees, 22% and 40% respectively, donating to the United Way this year. Together, these two organizations raised over $250,000. 

“It is telling that both a public agency and a private company took campaign of the year awards,” said Summerlee.  “In tough economic times, it is wonderful to see the public and private sectors working in partnership to meet the needs of our community.”

Ken Dardano, executive director of the United Way, echoed Summerlee’s comments. “Donations are so important this year, when we are seeing increasing needs in our community for the basics like housing and food,” said Dardano.  “Thanks to the community for coming through, we will be able to provide the necessary funds to our member agencies in the new year.”

Despite the economic downturn, all business sectors contributed to the success.  The University of Guelph announced their contribution of $520,000 last week.  Linamar Corporation raised $115,000, while Cargill and The Co-operators raised $186,000 and $222,000 respectively.

In his closing remarks at the event, Summerlee officially announced that Marva Wisdom will step in as the United Way of Guelph & Wellington campaign chair for 2010.  Wisdom is a well-known figure in the community, serving on the boards of various organizations, including the Rotary Club of Guelph, the Macdonald Stewart Art Centre, the YM/YWCA.  She is vice-chair of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and is the Principal of Wisdom Consulting, based in Guelph.

“Marva will be a great addition to the United Way campaign cabinet in 2010,” said Dardano.  “I know Alastair’s dedication and commitment over his two years as campaign chair will inspire Marva and others on the 2010 cabinet.”