United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin, a charitable organization with a deep understanding of community needs, is gearing up for its highly anticipated 2023 campaign with an inspiring message: “Better is possible.” The campaign aims to address pressing social issues, empower individuals, and foster lasting positive change throughout Guelph, Wellington, and Dufferin.
“We believe our community and the people in it matter and know that we can help each other live better lives,” said Glenna Banda, executive director of United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin. “Lately life feels hard. Inequalities are growing. Rising costs and inflation are stressful. Will things get better? Yes, they can. Better is possible and there’s no better time than now.”
With an innovative community investment strategy focused on addressing root causes of poverty and creating systemic change, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin ensures that local solutions are implemented which are centered on collective community efforts and empowering those closest to issues. By working collaboratively with partners and leveraging the knowledge gained from years of experience, the organization aims to make a real difference in the lives of thousands of residents.
The 2023 United Way Campaign is set to kick off on September 13, 2023, and organizers are eager to inform the public about how they can contribute.
Each contribution and action will make a difference and fuel community change. United Way encourages long-term supporters to renew their support and those who have never supported United Way before to join the community of supporters who believe it’s time for better.
Leading the charge as the 2023 Campaign Chair is community champion Ray Stultz, a dedicated individual who has been actively involved in various community organizations for the past 25 years. Stultz's passion for making a difference and his professional experience in the financial services industry position him perfectly to lead this year's campaign.
"I've witnessed firsthand the needs of our community through my involvement with various organizations," said Ray Stultz. "Taking on the role of Campaign Chair allows me to combine my passion for community with my expertise in business growth. I'm thrilled to help make our community better for everyone."
As the second largest funder of social service programs in the country, after the government, United Way plays a vital role in addressing critical social issues such as food insecurity, homelessness, mental health, and isolation. In 2022 alone, the organization invested nearly $1.6 million in essential services, benefiting over 90,000 residents in the Guelph, Wellington, and Dufferin regions.
The 2023 United Way campaign is crucial for the community's ongoing recovery from the pandemic and to meet the increasing needs of its residents. Disturbingly, United Way's 211 helplines experienced a surge in calls at the end of 2022, with a 19% increase in food assistance, a 16% increase in housing and shelter, and a staggering 34% increase in mental health counselling.
The significance of community support in sustaining the programs and services provided by United Way is crucial for getting help to people who need it. The 2023 campaign will serve as an opportunity for individuals to step up and make a tangible difference.
The 2023 United Way Campaign will officially launch in September, but donations are accepted year-round. Individuals can contact the United Way office at 519-821-0571 to contribute or visit them online. Workplace donations across Guelph, Wellington, and Dufferin counties are encouraged and appreciated. Remember, every donation made stays 100% local.
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin has been a community pillar for over 80 years, effectively addressing pressing social needs, including poverty, social isolation, and mental health. With the guidance of a volunteer board, the commitment of dedicated staff, and the support of thousands of donors, United Way collaborates with partners across all sectors to improve lives and build a stronger community.
For more information about United Way GWD work visit them online here.