United Way Central Alberta has begun its 2023 community fundraising campaign.
The local nonprofit organization hosted its annual Campaign Kickoff Luncheon at the Red Deer Resort and Casino on Thursday. About 250 people attended the event.
“We’re bringing all of our supporters, our workplace campaigns, our partner agencies, individual donors together to celebrate kicking off the campaign,” said Chelsea O’Donoghue, United Way Central Alberta chief executive officer.
“Throughout the next three months, we do about 90 per cent of our annual fundraising.”
Nearly $1.6 million was raised through last year’s campaign. O’Donoghue said this year’s goal is to top that total.
“The need is greater than ever,” she said.
“This year (United Way will support) 15 partner agencies with multi-year funding for programming. The programming fits our strategies, whether it’s through basic needs, mental health or brighter futures – everything from youth programming to supportive counselling services, where it’s appropriate.”
The fundraising campaign will help build thriving communities, O’Donoghue added.
“It’s all about … making sure we have the essential programs to help support people so they can thrive,” she said.
Doug Doran, United Way Central Alberta board president, said the organization’s mission is to strengthen “vital connections” that support people in need.
“We believe the best opportunity to enable people and communities to thrive rests in three focus areas: ensuring access to basic needs, increasing access to suitable mental health services, and creating brighter futures with new possibilities,” said Doran.
“Our 2023 fundraising campaign is centred around these new focus areas and guide how we invest donor dollars to ensure community needs are met.”
Last year, UWCA invested over $1 million in supporting more than 34 programs, benefiting over 22,932 local individuals and families. Additionally, government funding of $1,098,000 was distributed by UWCA to 22 non-profits in Central Alberta through Canada’s Community Services Recovery Fund.
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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