With $100,000 already in the bank, United Way Central Alberta has high hopes it can top last year's $1.5-million fundraising total.
Federal funding and grant support pushed the amount used for local programs and projects to $2.6 million, which benefited more than 12,000 people through 23 programs. United Way used federal funding to invest in 22 other charities aimed at building resilience in communities.
This year's campaign was officially kicked off on Thursday at Red Deer Resort and Casino.
United Way Central Alberta CEO Chelsea O'Donoghue said nearly 39,000 Central Albertans face barriers to accessing essential basic needs.
Fundraising efforts are also aimed at improving mental health services for the estimated one in five central Albertans who will face mental health challenges this year. Community support is also needed to help the nearly 13 per cent of local children and youth living in low-income households and the 40 per cent of seniors living with disabilities.
"Your contribution, whether time, treasure or talent, has a powerful ripple effect," said O'Donoghue.
This year's fundraising campaign is off and running – literally. New this year, is a five-kilometre run on Sept. 22 at Heritage Ranch.
Returning again on Nov. 7 is the popular Whisky Classic Tasting event and there will be numerous Days of Caring volunteer initiatives, Basic Needs drives and workplace fund-raising events.
Doug Doran, United Way board vice-chair, thanked those who made last year's campaign a success.
"We're already off to a great start, and I encourage everyone to get involved, share what they've learned, and support our mission to make Central Alberta a place where everyone can reach their potential."
Red Deer Mayor Ken Johnston called the United Way campaign a "rite of fall. Nothing kicks off the fall in Red Deer like the United Way campaign."
For more information go to caunitedway.ca