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$1.8 million pledged to United Way

United Way’s Community Celebration Breakfast took place in Red Deer on Friday morning
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The United Way of Central Alberta is teaming up with the Central Alberta Poverty Reduction Alliance and the Radisson to host the Poverty Simulation Feb. 21. (Photo by SEAN MCINTOSH/Advocate staff)

Volunteers and supporters gathered at the United Way’s community celebration breakfast on Friday.

The 2019 theme, #UNIGNORABLE, was driven home by honouring the contributions of many supporters who ensured visible and lasting change for the community.

The United Way’s campaign objective is always to maximize its funding impact in the community. This year, central Albertans showed their love by pledging $1.82 million.

“I’m always so thankful and humbled by central Albertans’ generosity, always pulling together for many worthy causes to assist others,” said campaign cabinet co-chair Ron Sauve.

“I’m very proud of the support shown here today, with many outstanding workplaces that took the time and interest to have an employee campaign. There’s such an impact when we all come together to change the lives of others.”

Among those awarded at the breakfast were the top three fundraising contributors: NOVA Chemicals, MEGlobal and INEOS. Rising star awards went to Chandos and Scotiabank for continued growth in fundraising and participation.

A participation award was presented to Costco for achieving 100 per cent participation in its workplace campaign, and the GenNext Central Alberta Affinity group was recognized for its creative initiatives geared toward the millennial population.

The 2019 campaign was highlighted by art installations displayed in various locations to shine a light on the #UNIGNORABLE issues in our community.

“We started our campaign asking the community to help us make local issues #UNIGNORABLE, and they came through in a big way,” said Brett Speight, CEO of United Way Central Alberta.

“We saw higher attendance at events, more workplace visits and more conversation around these important local issues this year, and we are so thankful for all the support the community provides.”

Community investments for 2020 will be announced in April.



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