FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TORONTO RALLIES FOR UNITED WAY

Over 1,000 Torontonians help kick off 2007 campaign at Rally for United Way

TORONTO, September 6, 2007 – More than 1,000 Torontonians from across the city joined Chinese lion dancers, drummers, hip hop artists, break dancers and others at Dundas Square today to help United Way of Greater Toronto launch its record-breaking $108 million fundraising campaign for 2007, one of the largest in North America.

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

The action-packed event celebrated the generosity of Torontonians and the role they play in building a stronger, healthier city. In 2006, 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.

“In 2006, Toronto proved it truly is ‘the giving city’,” said Frances Lankin, President and CEO, United Way of Greater Toronto. “This event is a fresh, new way to connect people from across the city to encourage the same level of community involvement, leadership and engagement in 2007.”

To help unveil this year’s campaign goal, Flex was joined by Lankin; Tim Penner, President, Procter & Gamble and United Way’s 2007 Campaign Chair; Dr. Joseph Wong, founder of the former P&G Walk for United Way; Sharifa Khan, President, Balmoral Marketing and a long-time United Way supporter and co-founder of United Way’s Blossom Ball.

“P&G is thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with United Way of Greater Toronto, and I am honoured to be involved as this year’s Campaign Chair,” said Tim Penner, President, Procter & Gamble. “Today’s event is sparking enthusiasm for the 2007 United Way campaign among Torontonians as they continue to support a great cause and help us build a better city for everyone.”

The D’Alessandro Family Leadership Challenge Grant was also announced at the Rally. The Grant will provide up to $1 million in matching funds to United Way of Greater Toronto on donations of $1,000 or more.

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.

Established in 1956, United Way of Greater Toronto is a registered charity and community impact organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening neighbourhoods across Toronto. United Way identifies needs and takes action to create a better, safer, stronger city through research, partnerships and support of a network of 200 health and social service agencies.

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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