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Winter 2009

Dear [contact-first],

To say that the past months have been frightening would be a very simple understatement. Financial markets in turmoil. Jobs disappearing. Family, friends and neighbours struggling. Few, if any, are untouched. And yet the spirit of goodwill and generosity continues to shine in Toronto. 2008 was an extraordinary year—so many lost so much. We asked for help and everyone responded. I am so proud to be a part of this incredibly caring city!

Recently, a volunteer who is an investment professional asked me in an incredulous tone how we managed to raise $107.5 million in this economy? What was our secret? I told him what I tell everyone. Our secret is the great people of Toronto. Our secret is the hundreds and hundreds of dedicated volunteers who work on our campaign, give tirelessly of themselves, and inspire their colleagues and co-workers to give and then give some more. And of course, our secret is the extraordinary leadership and example set by our Campaign Chair, Board Chair, Campaign Cabinet, Employee Campaign Chairs, Leadership Chairs and Sponsored Employees. We at United Way, all our agencies, and all of Toronto are indebted to every one of these wonderful people.

To Bill MacKinnon, 2008 Campaign Chair, our everlasting gratitude for outstanding work in incredibly difficult times. Committed to social justice and passionate about the city of Toronto, Bill cares deeply for the diversity of our communities and the people who live here. A long time friend and member of the United Way family, he demonstrates his commitment through generous donations and contributions of time and leadership.

With increased demands and decreased resources, the pressure has never been greater. Where do we go from here? Well, we continue to do everything possible so that United Way agencies can achieve fundamental priorities: to build strong and healthy neighbourhoods, create opportunities for youth, and help newcomers fulfill their potential. We continue to work with partners in business and government, with service providers and individuals. And we continue to be prudent as we meet ongoing commitments and explore new ways to meet growing needs.

In late 2007, the United Way Report called Losing Ground: The Persistent Growth of Poverty in Canada’s Largest City demonstrated just how far behind Toronto families have fallen compared to their counterparts in the rest of Canada. Given today’s situation, it may get worse before we can help make it better.

More than ever before in our history, we will need to count on everyone in our community.

Without you, there would be no way.

President and Chief Executive Officer
United Way Toronto

$107.5 Million! Thank you Toronto!

There is a special vibe in a room full of over 1,600 people who collectively defied the odds. It's a vibe that resonates with enthusiasm and pride, with the sheer joy that comes from a job not just well done in the face of adversity but superbly done in spite of adversity. And it clearly expressed the mood at United Way's 2008 Celebration Dinner.

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In a "city of neighbourhoods", we must continue to create conditions for every community to thrive

Most people know about United Way’s commitment to supporting a network of health and social service agencies across Toronto. But United Way is also working to create lasting changes by investing in strategic initiatives and building public understanding of systemic issues. A key focus of these efforts is United Way’s Neighbourhood Strategy—an initiative aimed at strengthening those inner-suburban neighbourhoods most in need of targeted support. This strategy is a response to growing trends of localized poverty and population growth in Toronto.

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My heartfelt thanks: A message from Campaign Chair, Bill MacKinnon

It seems appropriate in these challenging times to borrow a phrase from Winston Churchill. "We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give."

The phrase popped into my mind often during this past year: when I saw fellow Campaign Cabinet members redouble their efforts, increase their personal contributions and take more and more time away from their careers, businesses and organizations...

During tough times, the community turns to United Way

As this full blown economic crisis takes it toll—the numbers of people who need help will increase dramatically in the months to come. United Way member agencies will be called upon more and more for financial counselling, employment training, food services and shelter.

Now, stable core funding to Untied Way member agencies is more important than ever before.

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2008 Spirit Awards: Excellence in community giving

United Way Toronto’s Spirit Awards recognize excellence in community giving among the dedicated volunteers, donors, labour and corporate supporters in the community. Everyone plays a vital role in helping United Way achieve its mission.

The Spirit Awards are given to organizations, campaigns, teams and individuals who achieve outstanding results in their United Way campaigns. To be nominated is an achievement. To win is to be the best of the best.

See all the 2008 Spirit Award winners...