Frances Lankin

President and Chief Executive Officer, United Way Toronto

Past, Present and Future

It's generally understood that time heals all hurts. And yet, in light of the economic ills our friends, families and neighbours have suffered over the last year—unemployment and uncertainty—it's safe to say that it will take more than just the flipping of a calendar to heal the impact the recent economic turmoil has had.

The time that has made a huge impact are the countless hours spent by countless people across the many neighbourhoods of this city. Their united response to the extraordinary events of 2008 and 2009 make me proud to call Toronto home. If someone had asked me a year ago to weigh in on United Way's prospects for the 2009 Campaign, I probably would have said that I was cautiously optimistic. It's a belief I held despite the headlines. The fact that we exceeded our target, set a new fundraising record and raised the most money of all North American cities—$109 million—is a testament to the leadership and commitment of the army of active volunteers—who gave and continue to give. They're an inspiration.

The leadership started with our Campaign Chair, Board Chair, Campaign Cabinet, Employee Campaign Chairs, Leadership Chairs and Sponsored Employees. On behalf of United Way, all our agencies, and all of Toronto, I say thanks to all of these wonderful people.

I'll end with this. The challenges we will face tomorrow are unrelenting. But so are we. We've proven it year after year that we have an unrelenting spirit and commitment. It's my belief that united we can. United we will.

Without you, there would be no way.

P.S. This issue launches the new look and format for Community Matters. We hope you enjoy it. Let us know what you think. Please drop us a line at feedback@uwgt.org.

Video: Thank you from our social service agencies

This year, more then ever your support helped so many in our community. Meet some of the many people in our city who are helped by your generous support of United Way Toronto. Without you, there would be no way! » Watch the thank you video...

Excellence in community giving: 2009 Spirit Awards

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 best of the best.

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. See all the 2009 Spirit Award recipients.

Special Report: Community Hub Launch

First of Eight Community Hubs Opens in Mid-Scarborough

Toronto's 13 priority neighbourhoods are challenged by a lack of space for community use and service delivery. This lack of space limits the skill-building, recreational, cultural, and social opportunities of the people who live there. In response, as part of United Way's Building Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy, United Way has partnered with West Hill Community Services, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, and the Central East Local Heath Integration Network to bring the first of eight planned Community Hubs to the priority neighbourhoods. » Read more...

Late Breaking News:

Canada and Ontario announce funding to build United Way community hubs in Toronto

On January 25, 2010, our Neighbourhood Strategy received yet another substantial investment. The Federal and Provincial Governments have committed $7 million in funding for two Community Hubs—one in Rexdale and one at Bathurst and Finch. See the full story.

Bill Downe

2009 Campaign Chair, United Way Toronto

Message from the 2009 Campaign Chair

On January 21, many supporters joined to celebrate the conclusion of United Way's 2009 campaign. Given the headlines over the last 18 months, the success of the campaign was significant—and it was a privilege to be able to take part in what was in fact a celebration of people and our city. The $109,000,000 raised was the result of a significant effort—one that will sustain the city and create a better future for families, neighbourhoods and newcomers. This success belongs to volunteers, donors and leaders from across Toronto. » Read more...

Leadership Profile: Celestica

A Culture of Leadership

Albert Schweitzer, said, "Do something wonderful, people may imitate it." These words sum up the power of a leader's influence and inspiration. Robert Schormans, Vice President, Canadian and U.S. Operations and General Manager, Toronto Manufacturing at Celestica, walked the walk and on the journey inspired people to give in a big way. » Read more...

Leadership Profile: RBC Capital Markets

Making it real, making a difference

Annually the employees at RBC Capital Markets come together to support United Way, but this year was very different. They read the headlines. They knew the need was growing rapidly, they knew extraordinary times demanded extraordinary effort. Deborah D'Arcy and the 2009 volunteer campaign cabinet wanted to encourage greater participation and wanted their colleagues to understand why it's vitally important to support United Way so they bolstered their annual campaign with education. The premise was to encourage people to walk a mile or two in another person's shoes. This meant understanding the agencies supported by the Community Fund and why they need support to do their front line work. » Read more...

The Tomorrow Fund

The Tomorrow Fund, United Way's community-wide endowment fund for social services helps donors create a legacy through their Will. A gift made by bequest to The Tomorrow Fund allows you to continue giving beyond your lifetime and perpetuate your annual support ensuring that your generosity benefits our community well into the future.

For more information, please visit our website or contact Lucia Stephenson, Director of The Tomorrow Fund at 416 359 2071 or lstephenson@uwgt.org.