UNITED WAY MEDIA ADVISORY / PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

RALLY FOR UNITED WAY:
CALLING ON ALL TORONTONIANS!

Canadian Idol Judge Farley Flex to host United Way’s 2007 campaign kick-off at Dundas Square

TORONTO, September 5, 2007 – A sea of red hats, Chinese lion dancers, drummers, hip hop artists and break dancers will be among those contributing to the sights and sounds at the 2007 Rally for United Way, taking place at Dundas Square from 12 noon to 1 pm tomorrow.

The action-packed event will reveal United Way’s fundraising goal for the 2007 campaign and celebrate the generosity of Torontonians and the role they play in building a stronger, healthier city. In 2006, the United Way of Greater Toronto achieved a record-breaking fundraising campaign that raised an extraordinary $106.8 million for the community. The 2006 Toronto campaign was the second largest United Way campaign in North America.

The Rally for United Way will be hosted by Canadian Idol judge Farley Flex and feature entertainment, a food fair, and a sea of spirited Torontonians wearing red United Way hats.

In the past, the P&G Walk for United Way – initiated in 1983 by Dr. Joseph Wong, a longstanding United Way supporter and Chinese community leader – served as the official launch of United Way’s annual campaign. Instead, the Rally for United Way will take place on a weekday, giving more Torontonians the chance to join the campaign kick-off and celebration.

Funds raised during the 2007 campaign will support United Way’s network of 200 health and social service agencies, working in partnership with residents and community leaders to build stronger neighbourhoods and vibrant communities.

Attractions and photo opportunities:

  • Celebrity host Farley Flex, Canadian Idol judge and music producer
  • Diverse cultural entertainment including Plasma recording artists Toya Alexis and Belinda Brady; Chinese lion dancers; “the stilt-dancing sisters” Cherisse and Cheronne Thurab; REMIX hip hop and break dance extravaganza; community drummers
  • A “marketplace” showcasing the work of United Way agencies from across Toronto
  • 2007 United Way campaign goal announcement
  • Crowd throwing red hats in the air following the goal announcement

Date: Thursday, September 6, 2007

Time: 12 noon - 1 pm

Location: Dundas Square (Yonge & Dundas)

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Media Contact:

Caitlin Stidwill
United Way of Greater Toronto
(416) 777-1444 ext. 396
or 416-629-5166 (during event)
cstidwill@uwgt.org