United Way campaign totals $25.1 million

United Way British Columbia will put $25.1 million to work in the community to help 340,000 children, families and seniors across Metro Vancouver. The money raised through the generosity of donors means that United Way can help move families from poverty to possibility, help kids be all they can be, and build stronger communities for all. The campaign total was announced at the 15th annual Scotiabank & United Way Community Spirit Awards. Kathryn Young, Partner, Boyden Global Executive Search, chaired the 2015 fundraising campaign. Mauro Manzi, Senior Vice-President, Pacific Region, TD Canada Trust, was the vice-chair. “I was truly honoured to be asked to lead this year’s fundraising efforts. What makes me passionate about United Way is that it takes a holistic, prevention-based approach to strengthening our community. I’m often surprised to learn that people don’t realize that, in Canada, United Way is the second largest funder of social services after the government. The impact that United Way has on people’s lives is remarkable,” said Kathryn Young, Partner, Boyden Global Executive Search. “We all share in the responsibility of creating neighbourhoods that we are proud to call home. Part of that responsibility is looking after our vulnerable. Thanks to the hard work of our volunteers and the generosity of our donors, United Way is able to help hundreds of thousands of people living right here in the Lower Mainland,” said Michael McKnight, President & CEO of United Way British Columbia. The gala recognized top donors, volunteers, unions and organizations that support United Way and that have made exceptional impacts on the lives of children, families and seniors in the Lower Mainland. Scotiabank has been the title sponsor of this recognition event since its inception. Guest speakers were two African refugee families helped by Surrey’s Early Years Refugee Settlement Program, funded by United Way British Columbia. The program helps children and their caregivers adjust and integrate into their new life in Canada. United Way will be topping up its investment in the Early Years Refugee Settlement Program so that a drop-in program can be developed specifically to help young Syrian refugees. $80,000 has been earmarked for this early childhood program. Late in 2015, United Way launched an urgent fundraising appeal to help Syrian refugee families who are settling in the Lower Mainland. CTV News at Six Anchor Mike Killeen and 94.5 Virgin Radio On-Air Host Nira Arora emceed the event. A list of award recipients is here.