It truly is better to give than to receive...

Last Saturday, I joined Carlos Benevides from 91.5 The Beat as he perform Deed #23 of his 30 Deeds in 30 Days campaign. We joined some other volunteers to help the House of Friendship with their Annual Turkey Drive. Those few hours were freezing, but also very inspiring!

We gave away turkeys to folks who needed them, and I was moved by how happy and so very thankful the recipients were. One family gave a thank you card to House of Friendship when they came to pick up their gift. Another recipient, a grateful lady, passed me a blessing card. Perhaps most moving for me was a fellow who arrived on his bike. He wished me a Merry Christmas, to which I replied, "Happy Holidays". He then responded with, "It is now, because we have food!"

Folks needed a special voucher in order to receive a turkey, but we made sure no one went away empty handed. Some folks without vouchers were given a ham. Others were told how they could go about getting a turkey voucher. If they arrived on foot, we offered them bus tickets to get home.

I want to give a quick shout out to Jenna and Megan, two Grade 12 students who joined their father to volunteer with us. They were a tremendous help.

You can read more about the House of Friendship Annual Turkey Drive and watch a video about it on Carlos’ 30 Deeds in 30 Days blog. I've also posted two photos below.

Participating in this event showed me that it truly is better to give than to receive. Can’t wait to help out again next year!

Meg

T'is the season to be caring, fah la la la la, la la la la!

OK... I have to admit, I am a HUGE fan of the television show GLEE. (Yes, I even own the t-shirt.) I am often caught on Tuesday evenings singing along to my favourite tunes with Rachel Berry and the rest of the New Directions cast. I know many of you out there think the show is annoying fluff, but last night's episode certainly wasn’t. It was a holiday special focused on giving back and making a difference in the community.
  
The show really got me thinking about my “Care it Forward” journey, which has been a great way to showcase fantastic people and organizations in our community who show they care by volunteering their time. I’m happy to announce that someone has taken the “Care it Forward” idea to a whole new level, and I get to help out!

Carlos Benevides from the Beat Breakfast team at 91.5 The Beat recently embarked on a journey of giving back called “30 Deeds in 30 Days”. Every day since November 25th, he’s been lending a hand at local agencies, helping to bring volunteerism to the forefront.

In following Carlos’ blog about his efforts, I found myself really wanting to do more. So, I’ll be joining him this coming Saturday at House of Friendship in Kitchener to distribute turkeys to those who might not otherwise be able to have a holiday feast.

I’m excited to share my experience with you next week. I'll be sure to post pictures, and you can check out Carlos' blog for video. I promise not to post any videos of me singing and dancing to "We need a little Christmas"!!!

Thanks, Carlos Benevides from 91.5 The Beat, for being a true Community Hero!

And thanks everyone in the KW area, for helping me to Care it Forward!

Meg

Photo Blog - Lisa LaFlamme Celebrity Event

Special thanks to professional photographer Danny Bailey for providing us with these images (and many more!) from our 2011 Celebrity Event honouring Lisa LaFlamme.

 

More photos coming soon!

Video Blog - Lisa LaFlamme Celebrity Event

We could go on and on about what a great time everyone had at our 2011 Celebrity Event in honour of Lisa LaFlamme, and we could write paragraph after paragraph about what a fabulous night it was, but instead we thought you'd like to see this video about the event created by students from the Conestoga College School of Media and Design.
 
Reporters: Rachel Schoutsen and Christine Stonos
Camera and Editor: Nathan Cox
Graphics: Matt Viveen
Producer: Professor Matt Pancer



United Way KW Celebrity Event honours Lisa LaFlamme from School of Media and Design on Vimeo.

The Final Stretch

James Chmiel
2011 Campaign Chair

I’ll give it to you straight up - both United Way KW and our community are feeling the effects of a volatile economy. As a result, we’re still predicting a shortfall for this year's campaign while our community faces an increase in social service needs. It’s a challenge that will only become greater now that winter weather is bearing down on us.

We’re in the final stretch of the United Way KW fall workplace campaign, so I guess it’s pretty fitting that I ask you to do just that – stretch.

Stretch your notion of what it means to support our community. Can you dig a little deeper and do more, either by donating additional funds or volunteering more? How about reaching out to your local networks – friends, family, colleagues – and encouraging them to do more too?

The need is there, so please, let’s continue to rally together and make sure the dollars are too. I know we can do more. We NEED to do more. It's not too late to get involved.

Thank you to all the people and organizations that have donated and supported United Way KW this year. You play an integral part in bringing about positive change in our community – change that benefits us all.

Don’t forget to join us February 29th, 2012, at the Waterloo Inn for our Community Spirit Awards, when we reveal how much was raised in our community and celebrate the wonderful people and organizations that helped to make a difference.

If you could make a difference, would you?

Many of you have already taken that first step towards making a difference, and I thank you for helping United Way KW build a brighter future for our community. Let’s take it one step further by becoming as involved as we possibly can be. After all, the best way to see the difference is to be part of the change.
 
What would you like to do to make a difference in our community? Tweet your ideas to me at @KeithReinhart and let your voice be heard!

United Way KW really appreciates the support young people have shown so far, but I think we can do better. United Way KW is currently falling behind on its targeted revenue goal, which means our community may not receive all of the support it needs. So I ask you again, if you could make a difference, would you?

If you haven’t already, please take that first step. Be change, make change and see change with one simple action- text UCHANGE to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW.

It’s official, by the way, I’m back for another year. I’ve really been enjoying my role as Youth Campaign Chair for United Way KW, so when they offered to let me stick around for another year, I jumped at the chance. Quite literally, that is. I’m a big fan of jumping.

I’m also a big fan of the work United Way KW is doing to help our community remain healthy and strong, which is why I’ll be continuing on with my text-to-give campaign. Just one more reminder before I sign off…

Text UCHANGE to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW, and make a difference today!

Reach out and help your community

With a struggling worldwide economy triggering challenges at the local level as well, United Way KW recently voiced concern and worry for our community.
  
At a time of increased demand for social services, forecasts show that only $4.9 million of the $6 million revenue goal set in September will be brought in through fall workplace campaigns. Our CEO, Jan Varner, recently told the media that there is “an overall downward trend in the funds pledged,” which is cause for concern.

Shelters and emergency services have only become busier as more individuals and families come to depend on them. Our local Food Bank is also experiencing an increase in families needing assistance and, unfortunately, a decrease in food being donated. These facts all point to one thing - our community needs our help.

We’ve all heard the saying “one person can make a difference,” but how many times have we ignored this sentiment or questioned if it’s actually possible? I know I have many times.

I never would have believed that I, one individual, could benefit my community. I’m just an ordinary youth living in the KW area. I shop at the same places as you. I eat at the same places as you. Heck, we might have even met.

Simply put, I now realize I couldn’t have been more wrong. I now know that I can make a difference, and so can you. I encourage you to take that next step. Don’t be a bystander at a time when our community needs your help. Be change, make change and see change by taking one simple action. Text UCHANGE to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW and help your community today. For more ideas on how you can help, visit http://www.uwaykw.org/.

Dream Auction offers unique twist to online holiday shopping

This holiday season, United Way KW encourages you to give your loved ones an unforgettable gift that benefits our whole community.

If you're looking for the perfect Christmas gift - one that stands out from the rest and officially earns you the title of “Best Gift Giver of the Year” - you won’t want to miss the opportunity to bid in the 2011 edition of our Online Dream Auction.

As James Chmiel, our 2011 United Way KW Campaign Chair, explains, “We’ve taken your typical auction and transformed it into an opportunity to have the experience of a lifetime. Think back to your childhood dreams of what you wanted to be when you grew up. This auction provides a chance to make those dreams come true, either for yourself or for someone dear to your heart.”

Included among the many auction packages available are the chance to be police chief for a day, opportunities to be a talk show host or food critic on local radio, and the chance to play hockey with the Kitchener Rangers. These and many other dreams are only a bid away.

Whether it’s a well-deserved holiday gift for yourself, or something unique for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list, you'll find something for everyone.

In the spirit of the holiday season comes one more festive detail - all proceeds from the United Way KW Dream Auction will help support social service needs in our community. Afterall, the holiday season is the perfect time to help make a difference for someone in need.

Bidding starts Tuesday November 29th at 9 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m. on Wednesday November 30th. Bids can be placed at http://donateuway.com/auction or directly through the United Way KW web site at http://www.uwaykw.org/.

Dare to Dream!

If you could do anything you wanted to for a day, what would you do? Host a radio show? Play hockey with the Kitchener Rangers? Take over as police chief? Hit the spa in a limo?
  
United Way KW is pleased to be hosting an ONLINE DREAM AUCTION on November 29 & 30, 2011.
Place a winning bid, and you'll not only make your own dreams come true, you'll also help fulfill the dreams of those in need in our community.

There are lots of great packages to bid on, and with the holiday season coming up, it's a great opportunity to get a great gift for somone special on your list! For more information, visit http://www.uwaykw.org/.
 
Meg

Breakfast - no, make that lunch - with Jeff

I took leave of our wonderful community recently to visit Toronto and have lunch with Jeff Hutcheson, whom I know needs no introduction for anyone in the KW area. He may be working in Toronto now on Canada AM, but we still consider Jeff our hometown sports and weather hero.

Did I mention Jeff is hosting our annual Celebrity Event honouring Lisa LaFlamme at Fed Hall on November 25th? I was meeting with him to go over details for the event.

I'm not sure who was more excited, myself or my 5 year old son, who squealed with delight when I pointed to Jeff on TV and said that was who I was meeting for lunch later that day.

Jeff Hutcheson

Like many Canadians, every weekday morning my family watches Jeff and the rest of the Canada AM team while we eat breakfast and get ready to start our day. I have to admit, when I was younger I always wished we could be one of the families Jeff joined for breakfast in their home while hosting his segment of the show. I'm also particularly fond of the "things" Jeff finds on the internet to share with his viewers.

Back to Toronto... a colleague and I met Jeff at a sports restaurant, which I thought was very fitting. He is just as fun and easy-going in person as he is on TV. I can't give too much away about our discussion, but let's just say our upcoming celebrity event is one evening you do not want to miss! Remember, it's Friday November 25th at 7 p.m. at Fed Hall. More information and tickets are available at http://www.uwaykw.org/. Hope to see you there!   Meg

Don’t forget where you came from

Keith Reinhart
2011 Youth Campaign Chair

“Don’t forget where you came from.” - Justin Bieber

You’ve heard it before, “there’s no place like home,” and Justin Bieber’s home is no exception. Our own local Canadian celebrity recently donated a whopping $10,000 to the Stratford Food Bank. Now, Stratford may not be the city we live in, but I feel it is the perfect topic for this week’s blog. Even a multi-million dollar pop star like Justin comes back to his hometown roots because he knows from personal experience what it’s like to depend on community support.

It’s natural for some to have a cynical reaction to this latest donation. I mean, Justin has performed with some of the biggest musicians around such as Usher and Rihanna. He has also sold millions of albums and has a net worth of $85 million. But it was only a few years ago that this young star and his family relied on help from the Stratford community. In Justin’s movie biopic, Never Say Never, he vividly recalls going to the food bank with his mom. Despite those earlier struggles, however, Justin made it to where he is now.

Even if you haven’t performed in front of millions of screaming fans or been photographed with your celebrity girlfriend, you have something in common with Justin.

We all want the best for our families, friends and community. A lot of times we see people in need and wish we could do more to help. It is important to remember however that helping doesn’t take a lot. Food bank demands have greatly increased, with more people needing food and less food to give out. Every little bit counts. $5 may not mean much to you, but it can mean the world to someone else. Whether it’s five boxes of macaroni and cheese or a frozen pizza, that five dollars just made a difference. That five dollars just helped feed a family.

I wish I could say I’ve performed alongside some of the best artists like Justin has, but I guess he and I will just have to be alike in another way. I’ve made the step to help my home community, and now you have the opportunity to do the same. Be change, make change, and see change with one simple action - text UCHANGE to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW. If you want to do even more to help your community, you’ll find some great ideas online at http://www.uwaykw.org/.

Trick-or-treat

Hundreds of doors, several years and thousands of pieces of candy: that about sums up the first years of our Halloween experience. Every October 31st, we held out our arms as we shone with smiles singing “trick-or-treat” in hopes our favourite candy would fall into our pillow case. We held our arms out for the best chocolate, the best candy, the best chips and yes, even the best pop. Let’s face it; we were fortunate and we got the best out there. But now it’s our turn to give instead of get. It’s our turn make that difference, to put that smile on someone else’s face.
 
There’s no doubt about the fact that money is tight. Being a student is no multi-million dollar experience, but there are other ways to show support and make a difference in your community.

Volunteering is a great way to help those in need. Not only are you making a difference, you’re also acquiring skills and experience you can carry forward into your career. Future employers are always going to want to see the volunteer section on your resume, so why not beef it up with some community support? Give yourself the opportunity to stand out from the rest. Give yourself the opportunity to be the best.

Those hundreds of doors, several years and thousands of pieces of candy were part of our Halloween history. Now let’s make our Halloween present count. We held out our arms, we over indulged in candy and we knocked on every door with a light on. We were the “getters”, but now it’s time to be the givers. Give your time, give your skills, and give that same gleaming smile. Be a part of United Way KW, be a part of the change in your community.

Change is in Your Fingertips

Whether you’re employed full time or a student, accomplishing all your goals while juggling daily life can sometimes seem like the unthinkable, especially when final exams creep up on you or your boss gives you an unreasonable deadline. But once those goals are accomplished, it all seems worth it, like you’ve achieved something surreal or become the next superhero. That deep feeling of accomplishment feels pretty darn good, right?
  
Lately, I’ve discovered another way to feel a sense of accomplishment in addition to getting work done - helping my community through United Way KW. So has Conestoga College student Amanda Bilogrovic, who recently donated $5 through our “Give What You Can” text-to-give challenge. Here’s what she says about the experience: “As a student without a lot of money, I feel great knowing my one simple text message will improve someone’s life. The convenience of giving this way doesn’t hurt either!”

In recent years, Canadians have helped people around the world through text-to-give campaigns. These needs have mainly stemmed from people struggling to deal with natural disasters. For these countries, gratitude for the support received from Canadians is something that simply can’t be put into words.

Now, as the winter months approach and our warm coats and scarves come out from the back of our closets, it’s important to remember local needs as well. Cold weather means our shelters are becoming increasingly full. It also means that some individuals will have a harder time making ends meet. But most importantly, it means the KW area needs your help.

I asked Amanda what made her decide to donate to United Way for the first time and she responded with, “I’ve recently realized just how hard making it on your own really is, and how hard it must be for others as well. Individuals struggling to support a family or looking for a way out of an abusive relationship are the people who truly know how hard it is to make it on their own. I decided the people in my community are the ones who need my help. In the end, I decided to help my neighbours.”
  
Please, I encourage you to be change, make change, and see change by one simple action – text UCHANGE to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW. That’s right, you can help make a difference in our community by giving as little as five dollars. So please, take a short break from texting your friends, and text to make a difference instead. I guarantee you’ll feel that great sense of accomplishment.

Me? Superstitious? No way!

Hi, it’s me James Chmiel again, the 2011 United Way KW Campaign Chair.
 
Earlier this year, United Way KW took a look at the impact that could be achieved by surpassing last year’s revenue total of $5.3 million by 13%. Here are some of the great things we could provide:

• More support to help kids succeed in school, to be healthy, and free from abuse and neglect.
 
• Additional programs to help keep families strong.
 
• More focus on building neighbourhoods where people feel safe to live, learn, work and play.
 
• Increased efforts to ensure that newcomers to our community feel welcome and supported.
  
• Better opportunities for economic security.
  
Clearly, a 13% increase would do great things for our community. Based on last year’s $5.3 million, that would have meant a revenue goal of $5.89 million this year, but instead I rounded it up to an even $6 million.

In case this move makes me appear superstitious, I want to clarify that I have nothing at all against the number 13. I simply believe that $6 million is within our grasp. This community has a lot of heart. If we all work together, I KNOW we can get there.

Hosting a United Way Workplace Campaign? If not, why not?

Hi, I’m James Chmiel, the 2011 United Way KW Campaign Chair. Back in September, I announced this year’s revenue goal of $6 million. Enthusiasm and commitment from local workplaces have been fantastic so far. While we’re off to a great start, there are still many workplaces out there that aren’t running United Way campaigns. Some simply don’t know where to start, and others are under the misconception that it’s a lot of work to hold a campaign. I know if they found out how easy it is to help United Way KW bring about long term sustainable change in our community, they’d be on board in no time!
  
That’s where I’m asking for your help. Please, if your workplace doesn’t currently hold a United Way campaign, or if you know of other workplaces in our community that don’t hold one, help me spread the word about how easy it is to care.

Workplace campaigns offer a great opportunity for employees to come together as a team, build awareness of local social service needs and resources, and make a difference in their community by supporting the work United Way does to change community conditions for the better.

We know the need is there. By rallying together and encouraging all workplaces in our community to host United Way campaigns, we can help ensure that the dollars are there too.

More information about workplace campaigns is available at http://www.uwaykw.org/, or by calling United Way KW at 519-888-6100.

Celebrity Event Update - Special Guests Announced!

If you haven't taken a peek at the blog of our CEO Jan Varner lately, I highly recommend you do so, especially if you've been waiting in anticipation for more information about our ever-popular annual celebrity event.

As if having Lisa LaFlamme as our guest of honour isn't awesome enough, wait until you see who her special guests are for the evening!

This event always sells out, so don't wait. Get your tickets now!

Meg

Youth Challenge: Give What You Can

I’m Keith Reinhart, Youth Campaign Chair for United Way KW. I’m also a university student, so I get that cash can be tight when you’re in school. Making a big donation to United Way KW probably isn’t in the cards right now. But if you think that means you can’t do something good for our community, you’re wrong.

Every little bit helps. It’s a proven fact. So go ahead and keep your rent money, but how about going without a coffee every once in a while, or skipping that last drink you shouldn’t have had anyway? I know a way you can turn that small change into something really big.

Quiz time - what’s 600 X 5? Right, 3,000. More importantly, $3,000 to support those in need in our community if 600 of you text “UCHANGE” to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW. The amount gets added to your phone bill. (My grade school math teacher would be so proud if he saw this.)

So that’s the challenge I’m issuing to every youth in the KW area. I want 600 of you – at least 600 of you - to make that next message really count by texting “UCHANGE” to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW. Then text your friends and ask them to do the same. You’ll all be helping to create sustainable social change in our community.
 
Remember, text “UCHANGE” to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW. Don’t wait, do it today!

Keith
 
PS - Thanks to Libro Financial, our text-to-give sponsor, for making this challenge possible. I’ll report back soon and let you know how the challenge is going.

Checking in on Charity Fraud

It’s hard to tune into the news these days without hearing about some form or other of charity fraud. It’s not surprising then, that almost two thirds of Ontarians worry about charity fraud, and over half say they aren’t as likely to give as a result.

With this in mind, we want you to be confident that the funds you entrust to United Way KW are invested wisely in programs and initiatives that help improve social conditions in our community.

As the annual audited financial statements on our web site will attest, we are committed to being transparent and meeting all Canada Revenue Agency accounting principles and compliance requirements.

We encourage you to be an educated donor. Ensure that your gift goes to a genuine registered charity and is used for the purpose you intended. Check out www.uwaykw.org/give for three brief online videos by Canada Revenue Agency on the subject of charitable giving.

Cathy Snyder
CFO/CAO

Record editorial says it all

On Friday September 23, The Waterloo Region Record published a great editorial entitled "United Ways deserve our help".

Click here to access the full article on the Record web site.

I want to share a few snippets with you here:
 
"Fundraising is never easy, and it is particularly difficult at a time when a country is either in recession, getting over a recession, or, like now, worried about the possibility of another recession."

"Jan Varner, United Way of Kitchener-Waterloo’s chief executive officer, dealt with her organization’s financial situation frankly when she asked, “Are we where we hoped to be financially now?” Her answer was, “No.” She quickly added, “But we can’t give up. We’re committed to achieving this target.” She’s right."

"Either through channelling donated money or volunteer time, United Way organizations are making our communities better places in which to live. And they richly deserve all the support our communities can give them."

I realize I'm a little biased here, but thanks, Waterloo Region Record, for the great article. For sharing our message with the community, the editorial team members at the Record are my latest Community Heroes!

Keep Caring it Forward,

Meg

Guest Blogger Lisa Drew: Caring it forward…

The 2nd annual Day of Caring was just that, a great day to get out and do something to make our region a better place. And hang out with a few horses.
 
The day was sponsored by United Way KW and Area, and yesterday also launched this fall's workplace campaign. This year’s chair James Chmiel wants to to knock it out of the park- the goal? Six million! This is the year that we can do it. (Amazing turnout at the noon lunch downtown..thumbs up to the BIA, Shriners and Manulife!)
http://www.uwaykw.org/

Our radio group (570 News, CHYM and KIX) spent a few hours yesterday morning at Pride Stables in Kitchener .

It’s home to the Central Ontario Development Riding Program. Volunteers make this place hum, and make a lot of kids and their parents smile year round.

It provides therapeutic horseback riding not just to kids with special needs, but adults too. (Clients could be in a wheelchair, or have CP, or autism…) This is the biggest program of its kind in Canada, and its located in the Deer Ridge/Pioneer Tower end of Kitchener .

We were there scrubbing down the stalls, and the group from Deloitte would follow us with paint brushes in hand. Here’s what we learned yesterday: 26 beautiful horses make up this program, over 300 riders use the program annually, over 200 volunteers make the difference, and the program really needs 25 volunteers right now! http://www.pridestables.com/

CODRP gets support from our local United Way, and generous sponsors right here in the community. Tara and I have already signed up to help with a weekday session. We were that moved and that inspired, and left with big smiles.

lisa

Lisa Drew
Morning News Anchor
570 News
Kitchener ON
519 743-6397
Lisa.Drew@570News.Rogers.com
Listen Live at 570News.com
Read my blog : http://blog.rogersbroadcasting.com/lisadrew/
Follow me on Twitter @lisadrewradio

Day of Caring – a great chance to care it forward!

So, you’ve been thinking about caring it forward, but you haven’t quite gotten around to putting that caring into action, is that right?
    
Don’t worry, I understand. I’ve been really busy too, so I’ll let you off the hook for now. Provided, that is, you come out and join United Way KW in downtown Kitchener on September 21 when we celebrate our 2nd Annual Day of Caring and launch our Fall Workplace Campaign.
 
Wait, there’s more. I also want you to volunteer to do something, anything at all, to help others in our community during Day of Caring. Even if you’ve never volunteered before – in fact, especially if you’ve never volunteered before – I encourage you to give it a try on September 21st. Helping others makes you feel great inside, trust me on this one.
 
Just one more thing - don’t be afraid to toot your own horn. Post your efforts on Facebook or Twitter, using hashtag #dayofcaringkw. Send a photo too if you can to mlagrotta@uwaykw.org, and I’ll post it right here for all to see.

REMEMBER:
  
UNITED WAY KW 2nd ANNUAL DAY OF CARING
and Fall Workplace Campaign Launch

Generously sponsored by Manulife Financial

Wednesday September 21, 2011
12– 1:30PM

Kitchener Civic Square
Downtown Kitchener

We’ll be sharing the street with the Downtown Kitchener BIA as they celebrate their Employee Appreciation Day on King Street between Ontario and Gaukel from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
 
Until then, keep caring it forward,
 
Meg

Lisa LaFlamme - This Year's Celebrity Event Honouree

Be sure to check out our CEO's blog about CTV evening news chief anchor Lisa LaFlamme, who recently took over from the retiring Lloyd Robertson. We're honouring this outstanding Kitchener native at this year's United Way KW Annual Celebrity Event on Friday November 25th at Federation Hall.

Tickets go on sale soon. Visit our web site for more details.
 
Meg

It’s International Literacy Day – take the challenge!

International Literacy Day – September 8th - is celebrated across Canada to promote and increase reading and writing skills among Canadians.

One of United Way Kitchener Waterloo and Area’s five regional priorities involves ensuring that all people are economically secure. Literacy plays a critical role in achieving that security. United Way Kitchener Waterloo and Area supports programs that provide adults with important literacy services - and a chance at a better economic outlook.

I encourage you to get involved in International Literacy Day this year by taking the International Literacy Day Challenge. Simply participate in one or more of the following activities on September 8th:

1. Read a book to a child
2. Have a child read a book to you
3. Start a blog (my personal favourite!)
4. Take a professional development course
5. Join a social media platform – Linked In, Facebook, Twitter, etc.
6. Write a letter to an old friend – the snail mail way!
7. Share this list with friends and coworkers – and dare them to take the challenge!
8. Play a game of Scrabble
9. Look up and learn a new word (and continue to do so every day for a month!)
10. Use a new form of technology (Smartphone, self‐serve checkout, etc.)

Here’s my personal challenge to you – don’t just take part in these activities on International Literacy Day - do at least one of these activities each and every day of the year!

Nancy Bird
Director, Community Development

Thanks for “texting it forward” to support Goderich!

There are a lot of people out there that I want to send a big thank you to right now – those who supported the victims of the recent tornado in Goderich by participating in our special two-week mobile giving campaign for United Way Perth-Huron.
 
Between August 23-31, $2855 was raised via texting to support the citizens of the disaster-stricken town of Goderich. With $5 being donated for each text, that’s a whole lot of texting going on!

Twitter played a big role in spreading the word about this special campaign, as did our local media outlets. I think our CEO, Jan Varner, summed it up best with the following statement: "I am so pleased to see the support from the community, media partners and social media outlets. We’ve never seen so many retweets! Our community put caring into action by texting their financial support and sharing it with their networks.”

We also accepted donations from donors without texting capability. These funds will be added to the text donations and sent to Goderich.

While we’re no longer accepting text donations for Goderich, the mobile giving campaign continues throughout our fall workplace campaign season in support of those in need right here in the KW area.

Simply text “UWAY” to 45678 and $5 will be added to your phone bill. You can make up to six text donations per month.

Here’s an interesting fact for you: Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Libro Financial Group, we were one of the first Canadian United Ways to launch a mobile giving initiative.

Thanks again to all who supported Goderich through our special two-week mobile giving campaign, and to all who continue to support our community by “texting it forward”.

Keep Caring it Forward!

Meg

Hey "Care it Forward" Followers!

Thought it was time to give you an update since I’ve been MIA for a while!

I’ll be honest. I haven't had time to volunteer lately because I’m busy planning and organizing a huge day that encourages volunteering - United Way KW's 2nd annual Day of Caring.  This year's event will be even bigger and better thanks to our sponsor, Manulife Financial, and our partner, the Downtown Kitchener BIA.  I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that you won't want to miss the events going on in downtown Kitchener on Wednesday, September 21st.  Check out www.uwaykw.org for more details.

Back to caring it forward...

The importance of caring it forward really hit home when Goderich was recently devastated by a tornado.  We’ve been encouraging you to financially support the folks in Goderich through our text to give campaign.  Here’s another plug – if you can, please text "UCARE" to 45678 to donate $5.00 to those affected by the tornado.

I also want to encourage you to help the folks in Goderich by volunteering.  Simply call 211 and they’ll connect you with volunteer opportunities in that area.  If you do volunteer, be sure to send me your stories and photos so I can share them on my blog!

Until next time, keep caring it forward!

Meg

How we minimize fundraising costs to maximize donor dollars

At United Way KW, we aim to invest as many donor dollars as possible right back into our community. One way we do this is by keeping fundraising costs as low as possible.

Extraordinary volunteer commitment and numerous gifts-in-kind over the years have helped us keep these costs down. While the actual percentage fluctuates as revenue increases and decreases, we strive to keep our year-round fundraising costs at approximately 17%. This is evidenced by the audited financial statements available on our web site, which review the finances of our organization in great detail.

We’re able to keep costs low through opportunities such as:

·       working extensively with volunteers, including our Board of Directors, Finance and Audit Committee, Campaign Cabinet, Community Impact Council and Priority Impact Teams 

·       partnering with workplaces in our fundraising efforts

·       securing sponsorships and gifts-in-kind for events and operations

·       securing not-for-profit discounts from vendors and service providers

·       housing our office in space generously provided by the Marsland family at a significantly reduced cost

·       working continuously to improve the efficiency of our processes

·       incorporating our “Go Green” environmental initiative.

Cathy Snyder

CFO/CAO

Help Us Support the Citizens of Goderich

A message from our CEO, Jan Varner:

The town of Goderich lies disaster-stricken in the wake of an F3 Tornado that hit the community last Sunday. I find it hard to believe that the photos I see online and in the newspapers depict a once-idyllic location so near to my own home. The overwhelming personal and emotional loss suffered by the residents of Goderich extends far beyond the physical damage these images reveal. Like the buildings, their lives, too, need to be rebuilt.

In times such as this, with so many lives uprooted so close to home, we must step up and help each other. Please, put your caring into action. Text "UCARE" to 45678 to donate $5.00 to United Way Perth-Huron and let the citizens of Goderich know we're here to help them thorough this tumultuous time.

For more information, please refer to the media release on the our web site.

Jan

Year-Round Fundraising Efforts Strengthen Community Impact

With summer half over and the fall fast approaching, planning is well underway here at United Way KW for our annual workplace campaign.

I’ve had a few individuals approach me over the past year to inquire why we’re placing increased emphasis on year-round fundraising efforts, instead of just focusing on our popular fall workplace campaign. There are several very good reasons for this shift.

The philanthropy model we’ve used for many years - one based largely on workplace campaigns - limits our ability to raise increased funds. Our community is made up of many diverse types of workplaces and we know some individuals simply aren’t being reached through our traditional workplace campaign efforts. As well, some organizations find that fall just isn’t the right time of year for them to run a fundraising campaign.

So, while our fall workplace campaign continues to be our single largest - and most publicly recognized - method of fundraising, we’re also consciously stepping out of this historical campaign model to engage donors year-round. Through additional practices such as direct mail campaigns, special events, text-to-give, and sponsorship opportunities, we’re working aggressively to diversify revenue sources so we can expand our impact on community issues.

Cathy Snyder
CFO/CAO

Teledyne Dalsa Donates Social Media Student

Community Heroes abound! 
  
Be sure to check out the latest entry in our CEO's blog to learn more about two community heroes at Teledyne Dalsa - Patrick Myles and Neil Humphrey - and the unique program they've developed that's turning their co-op students into community heroes too!

Our 2011 Youth Campaign Chair: Keith Reinhart

Here at United Way KW, we strongly encourage youth to get involved in their community in a meaningful way. Doing so enriches not only their lives, but also the lives of many others.

This year, we’re upping the youth factor of our fall workplace campaign with the addition of a new volunteer position, that of Youth Campaign Chair. We’re thrilled that 22-year-old Keith Reinhart from Kitchener has agreed to be first in tackling this role.

Certainly no stranger to social media, Keith comes to us on the heels of an adventure-filled year as the 2010 Young & Free Ontario Spokesperson, part of a campaign sponsored by Libro Financial to lend a voice to Ontario youth 25 and under, particularly where financial matters are concerned.

A large part of Keith’s role involved blogging, tweeting and creating online videos, and we’re looking forward to him engaging in similar projects on our behalf.

You can learn more about Keith in the latest addition of our REACH newsletter. That's him on the cover, in fact. REACH is available online at http://www.uwaykw.org/.

Our 2011 Campaign Chair: James Chmiel

We’re pleased to announce that James Chmiel, a partner and President of Erb and Erb Insurance, will take on the volunteer role of 2011 Campaign Chair. James takes over the reigns from News570 radio personality Lisa Drew. Lisa set the bar very high with the fabulous job she did last year, but we know James is up to the challenge.

To acquaint you with James a little better, we’ve included a list of the top 10 things we think you should know about him in our latest edition of REACH newsletter. We won’t tell you all 10 right now, but here are the first two to get you started:

1. James was first introduced to United Way in 2003 when he joined Erb and Erb Insurance, one of our long-time supporters. That same year, James worked in the community on our behalf as a sponsored employee, an experience which he calls “phenomenal”.

2. James was named one of Waterloo Region’s 2011 Top 40 Under 40, an honour bestowed upon those individuals considered to be among the top young leaders in our community.

To learn more about James, be sure to check out the latest addition of REACH, available online now at http://www.uwaykw.org/.

OH Canada! My Care it Forward Family Challenge!

With Canada Day only a few days away, I thought I’d issue a “Care it Forward” challenge! I want each and every one of you to use the upcoming long weekend as an opportunity to do something caring as a family.

To give you some ideas, let me tell you about the two activities my family has planned for Canada Day weekend:

First, we’re planting a tree to replace one of the many trees in our region uprooted by the powerful winds and thunderstorms that swept through our area earlier in June.

Second, my family and I are going to pick up the litter in our neighbourhood park. This is an activity I do on a weekly basis with my 4 year old – part of my effort to ensure he grows up knowing the importance of pitching in and doing one’s part.

Remember, spend some quality time with your family this Canada Day weekend performing an act of caring. Then email me at mlagrotta@uwaykw.org to share your experience. If you can, send me a photo too.

By caring for our community, you’re also caring for this great country of ours. It’s where we live, work and play, and we need to take care of it.

I look forward to sharing my acts of caring next week!

Oh, and don’t forget to enjoy one of the fantastic fireworks displays this weekend, eh!

Meg

PS - If you're looking for some great reading material while you relax, check out the new edition of REACH. It's hot off the press!

2011 Edition of Reach Arrives

It's here!

  
The 2011 edition of REACH, our annual report to the community, is now available. There are a lot of Community Heroes inside!

Be sure to check out page 2 to learn more about our "Care it Forward" initiative. I'd love to have you get involved with this awesome project showcasing community spirit.

You can read REACH online or contact the United Way office to request a print copy.

Meg

Superheroes really do exist!

Like most children, I look at my dad and see a superhero. He really can do anything - still the strongest man I know. In the spirit of Father’s Day, I want to share why this day is so important to me.
 
Father’s Day is a special day for the Lagrotta girls. (Yes my dad was blessed with five fabulous girls, including my mom.)
 
My dad had the fight of his life from 1996 – 1998 when a very rare and aggressive type of lymphoma (neither Hodgkins nor non-Hodgkin’s) became his kryptonite. At the time, there was no known treatment and a very low survival rate.

I still remember him coming to my dance competition, very sick, to see me perform the solo I had dedicated to him and his cancer journey. The song was Leann Rimes’ “How do I live?” It’s the same song my father and I danced to on my wedding day a few years ago. With his indomitable spirit and incredible outlook on life, my father defied all odds and won his battle. He beat his kryptonite and lives life in remission.
  
My dad is one of those people who everybody knows and loves. He’s always helping neighbours and caring for others - especially his girls. He is happiest at the cottage with all of us, playing with his grandkids.
  
He is a walking miracle…and my real life super hero.
  
Happy Father’s Day, Dad!
  
Meg

United Way KW’s Commitment to Accessibility

In honour of this week, May 29th to June 4th, being National Access Awareness Week, I thought it fitting to highlight the effort United Way KW is making in this regard.
 
What exactly does accessibility mean and why does it matter? As the Access Waterloo Region web site explains, “People with disabilities regularly face barriers that prevent them from working, traveling in and enjoying their communities. Seniors also experience barriers to activities as part of the natural aging process. Ontario's accessibility standards will break down these barriers so that people of all ages and abilities can more easily live, work and travel throughout the province.”

National Access Awareness Week brings attention to the ongoing need for improved accessibility for people with disabilities. It’s also a time to acknowledge and thank those organizations that are making an effort and doing their part.

At United Way KW, we’re committed to making our region a great place to live for everyone. We want our community to be accessible and inclusive for all.

When it comes to communications, our goal is to connect with persons with disabilities in a manner that takes into account special needs and unique circumstances, including the use of assistive devices. We are working toward ensuring that our communications policies, practices and procedures are consistent with the core principles of independence, dignity, integration and equality of opportunity.

This is an ongoing process, and we welcome your comments and suggestions. Please direct any feedback and inquiries to myself at 519-886-6100 ext. 254 or csnyder@uwaykw.org.
 
Cathy Snyder
Chief Financial Officer

West Avenue Residents Inspire My "Care it Forward" Journey

One of the main reasons I was so excited to embark on my “Care it Forward” journey was so I could inspire other people in KW to give their time by showing them just how easy it is to make a difference.

Well, last week I was the one getting inspired! A story appeared in the Waterloo Region Record entitled “Residents work to take back neighbourhood, honour slain friend”. (http://www.therecord.com/news/local/article/527160--residents-work-to-take-back-neighbourhood-honour-slain-friend)

The article references the terrible tragedy that took place last New Year’s Eve when John Ferreira was senselessly killed on the Iron Horse trail and the residents of West Avenue in Kitchener lost a dear friend and neighbour.

From that terrible event, something wonderful has transpired. The residents of John Ferreira’s neighbourhood are now pulling together to reclaim and restore their once safe and prosperous community. Their goal is to change public perceptions about living in downtown Kitchener, while deterring and reducing crime in their own backyard.

Now that’s inspiring! This story demonstrates that by coming together for the common good, we can bring about positive change in our community. All we need to do is get started!

Thank you, residents of West Avenue in Kitchener, for role modeling change in your neighbourhood and showing others how to “Care It Forward”. You are all Community Heroes, and I applaud your efforts.


Meg

PS. Do you have a similar story to tell? If so, be sure to let me know at mlagrotta@uwaykw.org or 519-888-6100 x232. I want to make sure all of our unsung Community Heroes get the congratulations and recognition they deserve.

A Tribute to Mothers Everywhere

On Sunday May 8th, we pay tribute to mothers the world over - biological mothers, adoptive mothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, and anyone else, regardless of gender, who fills the role of mother in someone's life. Our Director of Community Development, Nancy Bird, offers the following thoughts about her own mother, and the valuable life lessons her mother taught her while growing up.

I don’t know what I would do without my mom. She is probably the strongest woman I know. She didn’t go to college until my sister and I were old enough to take care of ourselves at least a little, but she is smart (she doesn’t think so, but I know she is).

My mom came from a very modest family with its own kind of dysfunctions. She was teased as a kid because she was tall and big-boned – after all, we come from good farm stock. But you know what? She is the kindest, most generous person you could meet. She and my dad both remind me on a daily basis that who we are is not defined by what school we went to, what job we have, where we live or who we know. Who we are is truly about what we believe in and how we live our life.

I was blessed in that my parents gave me everything I could possibly have needed in this world. I didn’t have a computer or a cell phone and I remember the day we got a colour tv, so clearly it wasn’t the physical stuff.

What my mom gave and continues to give me is permission to be myself – the good and the bad; she has given me the understanding I needed when I made mistakes that I’m sure she knew I would make; she has demonstrated that even though we think we are imperfect, someone thinks differently; she have given me the experience of unconditional love.
This Mother’s Day I want to thank my mom for helping me become me. I couldn’t have done it without her. The greatest gift I can give her is to do the same for my children. So, mom, no matter how old I get and how independent I seem, I love you and need you every day. Thank you for teaching me the most important things in life – without even knowing you were doing it.

Nancy Bird
Director, Community Development

We've Moved - Same Building, Different Floor

We've just relocated from our offices on the 11th floor of the Marsland Building to a great new spot on the 8th floor. Please note our new contact information:


United Way of KW and Area
20 Erb Street West
Suite 801
Waterloo Ontario  N2L 1T2

Volunteers have Huge Impact on our Community – and Me!

I attended the Volunteer Impact Awards Gala last night! Now I’m even more excited to start my “Care it Forward” journey. It’s truly amazing to see what the gift of time can do in our community.

United Way KW was the proud sponsor of the Business Community Partner Award. Here’s a photo of our very own Nancy Bird, Director of Community Development, on the far right, presenting the award to Home Hardware.

Congrats to all the nominees and winners at last night’s gala. You’ve truly inspired me with all of the amazing things that you do. I hope I can join some of you on my “Care it Forward” adventures. Visit http://www.volunteerkw.ca/ to see all of the deserving award nominees.

It's here! Time to “Care it Forward”...

In the spirit of National Volunteer Week, I’d like to announce something very exciting we’re starting here at United Way! Something we like to call “CARE IT FORWARD”. You’ll hear those three words a lot over the next little while. In fact, you’ll hear from me a lot over the next little while, and as those who know me well are fully aware, I love to talk.

Remember Day of Caring? Well, “Care it Forward” is our way of turning every day into a Day of Caring. There’s an old proverb that goes: "If you have much, give your wealth; if you have little, give your heart." Well, I have a big heart and if I could, I would change the world. Realistically, I know I can’t do that, but I can make a difference right here in my own community.

The goal of “Care it Forward” is to get you thinking about volunteerism and how you, too, can make a difference by lending a helping hand. Which reminds me, we’ve added two new awards to our Community Spirit Awards roster with the introduction of both individual and corporate “Care it Forward” awards. What do you think? Are you up to the challenge?

I invite you to follow me as I venture out over the next few months, volunteering my time and meeting some of the many individuals and organizations in our area that exemplify the true spirit of a community hero.

Come on, be part of the “Care it Forward” movement. Do a good deed and share your story with me. Who knows, I might mention you in my blog. I may even volunteer to help you out!

You can reach me on Twitter , Facebook, or via email at mlagrotta@uwaykw.org.

I look forward to meeting lots of fascinating people and learning more about what our community has to offer. First stop, the Volunteer Impact Awards Gala on April 12th. I can’t wait to be inspired by those who invest their time giving back to our community. Talk about your wise investors!

Until next time, keep caring it forward,

Meg