The United Way CSO celebrated its 2016 campaign last week, recognizing more than 100 community partners that made it all possible.
Community leaders, corporate sponsors, media partners, workplace campaign contributors, volunteers and funded partners were treated to an evening of appreciation thanks to sponsor, Your Dollar Store with More, hosted at Hanna鈥檚 on the Waterfront.
As a result of the annual fundraising efforts and provincial funding, a total of $1.45 million will be invested in the Central and South Okanagan/Similkameen communities this year.
Last year, United Way invested a similar amount in 51 programs and initiatives delivered by community agencies that support children, youth, families and seniors in the community.
More than 85,000 people in 22 communities are impacted by United Way investments in 3 focus areas: supporting all that kids can be, moving people from poverty to possibility and building healthy, strong communities.
鈥淲e partner with hundreds of people and organizations throughout the year to strengthen our community. People across the Okanagan are committed to taking care of each other, and it鈥檚 encouraging to see the local, community spirit that is helping people who are most in need,鈥� said Kathy Conway, volunteer Chair of the United Way CSO Board and CEO of Interior Savings.
In addition to the social services provided by more than 40 local charities, the United Way investments support strategic initiatives like the new Central Okanagan Family Hub, 100 Homes Penticton Campaign, Emergency Transportation Tickets, Youth Initiative Grants and Child Safety Car Seat initiative.
It also includes province-wide projects that United Ways deliver in partnership such as Better at Home and Success by 6.
鈥淲e are so thankful to every caring person and company that contributed to this year鈥檚 campaign,鈥� said Ian Gerbrandt, Interim Executive Director for United Way CSO.
鈥淥ur community is filled with everyday heroes. Working together, we can do amazing things to address local challenges that no one organization can solve on its own.鈥�
Individual and corporate donations amounted to $1.25 million in 2016, with 70 per cent of gifts generated by workplace campaigns.
At last week鈥檚 event, more than 100 appreciation certificates were prepared for each workplace, corporate and media partner and presented to those in attendance.
Locally, this year鈥檚 top three workplace campaigns were Costco, BMO and Gorman Bros. Lumber.
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