Local United Way Announces Campaign Goal of $2.1 Million, Gives Awards

Sep. 14, 2009

(Moncton, N.B. – September 11, 2009) – With a lively welcome by some Harrison Trimble High School cheerleaders and an upbeat theme song to close the event, the United Way of Greater Moncton and Southeastern New Brunswick launched its 2009 fundraising campaign today in Moncton, unveiling its largest goal to date – $2.1 million.

2009 Campaign Chair Marcia Gaudet, District Vice President for Scotiabank, told the crowd of about 500 that the need continues to grow in the community for improvements in the quality of neighbourhood social conditions, as well as opportunities for youth. She added that newcomers also need more help to integrate into the area, while a host of other programs and services that support all members of the community require more assistance.

“United Way works hard to ensure your donations go where they are needed most,” said Gaudet. “United, we can support people living in vulnerable situations. United, we can improve the lives of individuals and families facing economic challenges. United, we can help all people gain and retain dignity and quality of life.”

Founded in 1953, the United Way of Greater Moncton and Southeastern New Brunswick Region Inc. is a non-profit, charitable organization that brings people and resources together to improve lives in our region. The organization is committed to addressing the root causes of issues affecting communities, families and individuals.

“By engaging residents, local business and community leaders, service providers and funders, our goal is to inspire hope in a better tomorrow, build safe, healthy and strong communities, and create opportunities that lead to long-term sustainable change,” local United Way president Marc Doucette told the crowd.

The local United Way’s annual fundraising campaign, which runs from September to December, raises money primarily through workplace payroll deduction programs, as well as through other individual and corporate contributions. All funds remain in Southeastern New Brunswick and are distributed to social service agencies in the area after a thorough review of applications by community volunteers.

The 20 local partner agencies that receive core funding from the local United Way were invited to set up kiosks outside of the campaign launch today, allowing United Way donors to learn more about the impact their donations make in the region. As well, a campaign video was unveiled during the launch featuring representatives from local agencies that receive support from United Way. The video was completed this summer, a volunteer effort by local businessman Don Gautreau. Several major corporations and their employees have already kicked off the 2009 campaign by committing more than $450,000 toward the fundraising goal. Last year, the United Way of Greater Moncton and Southeastern New Brunswick Region raised more than $2 million for community-based agencies. Today’s event also featured the presentation of various awards, including the Evelyn McKie Community Builder Award, given to Cathy Bates of Moncton for her outstanding contribution to the community.

Bates, a local realtor, has volunteered for many organizations in the area. In recent years, she has worked tirelessly to mentor residents of three local communities in order to make their neighborhoods a better place for them live and raise their children. As well, she has been actively involved in literacy efforts in the region through her role in the Greater Moncton Literacy Advisory Board, Moncton Regional Learning Council and other groups.

Representatives from the United Way also handed out the Kim Halliday Asset Builder Awards, named in honour of former United Way Executive Director and community advocate Kim Halliday, who died in 2007. This award celebrates individuals who make a positive difference in the lives of young people, to promote healthy children, youth and communities.

In the adult category, Blake Reynolds received the award for his work with area youth, both in the field of sport – specifically ultimate Frisbee – and also through his participation in Atlantic Co-operative Youth Leadership workshops.

In the youth category, Harrison Trimble High School student Jeremy Plume accepted the award for his work in the community, including the development of a 2008 Christmas project aimed at helping others.

This is the 14th year the Delta Beauséjour hosted the United Way Kick off and, as in past year, hotel staff volunteered their time to serve at the luncheon, while – for the 10th year – Costco Wholesale donated all food for the meal.

During today’s launch, Doucette also announced that the local United Way would be taking part in Atlantic United Way Week, which begins Monday, running until Sept. 21. The week is being held to help the public better understand the impact United Ways across our region are making to build safe, healthy and strong communities.

There will be a flag-raising at Moncton City Hall at 10 a.m. Monday and one at Dieppe City Hall at 1 p.m. Monday. Representatives from the local United Way will also be making presentations to city councils in Dieppe, Moncton and Riverview during the week.

For more information, contact Cathy Donaldson, Communications Coordinator, United Way of Greater Moncton and Southeastern New Brunswick Region, 858-8600, Ext. 64, “cathy.donaldson@moncton.unitedway.ca”mailto:cathy.donaldson@moncton.unitedway.ca