Volume 3, Issue 6

Printer Friendly Version
You are welcome to reproduce the articles in Way to Go! Just send us a copy of the publication.

URGENT: United Way needs your support – now!

Employee Campaign Chairs play a key role in raising funds for the community

Sheri Wiggins and Donna McBride are kindred spirits. Both work for the Region of Peel and serve together as Co-Employee Campaign Chairs for their workplace’s United Way fundraising efforts.
more...

A shattered family: Bobby’s story

Following his mother’s death when he was 16 years old, Bobby came to Canada to live with his biological father and stepmother, both of whom he’d never met.
more...

Electronic version of funded agencies directory available

A pdf file of United Way of Peel Region’s 2005-06 Agency Directory is available.
more...

Outcomes Measurement making an impact

Chefs’ Challenge serves up success for United Way

Exquisite cuisine and good company were the order of the evening as the 2005 Chefs’ Challenge raised $100,000 for United Way of Peel Region on October 24.
more...

Argos score touchdown for United Way

United Way of Peel Region joined other United Ways from Ontario at the Rogers Centre in Toronto on October 27 for the game between the Toronto Argonauts and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
more...

Helpful parenting information just a click away

We value your feedback!

We are currently evaluating our website to make it more user-friendly.
more...

URGENT: United Way needs your support – now!

With just 6 weeks left in its 2005 campaign, United Way of Peel Region volunteers and staff are calling on every person, every workplace to do their part to help the campaign reach its goal of $12.7-million. The United Way of Peel Region campaign runs from September 9 to December 23.

“To date we’ve raised $3,387,903 toward the goal, but we really need to be further along at this point in the campaign,” says Campaign Chair Roland Sirois. “Meeting our goal is crucial if we are going to be able to respond to the increasing needs of our community.”

This year United Way of Peel Region is funding 115 programs and services offered through 55 community agencies. Some examples include:

Children’s breakfast clubs
Food distribution to low-income families, individuals and children
Training for volunteers supporting bereaved families
Hot, nourishing meals and friendly visits for frail and isolated seniors
Counselling for victims of sexual assault and childhood abuse
Emergency shelters for youth and abused women and their children
24-hour crisis and distress lines
Support for immigrant and black youth in overcoming social isolation and racism

The final weeks of the campaign are typically the busiest and most challenging, Sirois explains. “We realize that our donors are constantly called upon with requests, whether it’s here in our own community or around the world. However, we want to remind people that many United Way-funded agencies in our own community respond to people affected by disasters. Whether it’s through a distress phone line, food bank services, assistance to refugees and newcomers, or individual and family counselling, United Way is there to help.”

Some specific highlights from the campaign include:

The United Way Chefs’ Challenge, sponsored and organized this year by AstraZeneca Canada Inc., University of Toronto at Mississauga, and the Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre raised $100,000
Carlson Marketing Group raised $76,000, an increase of $11,000 over last year
GE Canada’s employee campaign is experiencing record growth in Leadership giving (donations of $1,000+). Last year GE had 64 Leadership donors; this year they have 80 so far and the campaign is still running!
Hershey Canada Inc. has come on board this year as a new supporter to run an employee campaign. They are matching employee donations dollar for dollar.
Early numbers from DaimlerChrysler indicate a record fundraising year. Last year they raised $386,000 for United Way. This year they anticipate an increase to just over $400,000!
Maritime-Ontario Freight Lines in Brampton stepped up with a $25,000 corporate donation, a major increase over their previous gift.

Please help us reach our goal, donate now.

back to index

Employee Campaign Chairs play a key role in raising funds for the community

Sheri Wiggins and Donna McBride are kindred spirits. Both work for the Region of Peel and serve together as Co-Employee Campaign Chairs for their workplace’s United Way fundraising efforts.

“I took this challenge and volunteered because I know the great work all the agencies do for the community that are funded by United Way,” said Donna, Homelessness Officer, Policy & Programs, Peel Housing & Property. “It was my hope that we could increase the funds raised so that more agencies could be funded or at the very least funding to agencies could be increased. This is also an opportunity to educate employees about the many services provided by the United Way-funded agencies.”

Sheri, Property Manager for Peel Living, echoed Donna’s remarks: “I too volunteered because I know how important the work of United Way is and that, without their assistance, many agencies would be in jeopardy, which in turn would jeopardize some of the more vulnerable people in our community.”

The Region of Peel’s employee campaign officially kicked off on September 14 with a big event just outside regional headquarters. This year’s theme is “Peel’s Amazing Race…Helping Others Along the Way.” Among the many fun activities organized by Donna and Sheri were ring toss, a mad hop race, aggressive recycling and a basketball showdown. Nine departments participated, with each team dressed in costume and represented by a “homemade” poster. Prizes were awarded for the most creative costume and the best poster.

Each department has also been running its own mini-campaigns, with events including breakfasts, barbecues, activities in the park, stretcher races, a carnival, book sales and an “island festival” (all food donated by a local caterer). The Planning department is staging a “Peel Idol” competition.

How did Donna and Sheri motivate their fellow employees to get involved in the campaign? “Many staff or their families and friends have used the services of many United Way-funded agencies,” explained Donna. “It is also not difficult to get employees involved as the events are always fun and there is always food. The other big motivator is that we offer everyone a chance to win great prizes.”

When asked whether she would encourage others to become ECCs at their workplace, Donna replied: “Absolutely, as it is extremely rewarding. Having said that, you cannot be in this role without the full support of your co-workers who are willing to relieve you of some of your workload. This enables you to meet all the commitments that it takes to make a campaign successful.”

Concluding her comments, Donna said: “It is important for organizations to support United Way of Peel Region because, without that help, many of the agencies would have to close their doors. And that would mean that the services would not only be unavailable to employees and their family and friends, but to the community of Peel in general and those who need these services.”

back to index

A shattered family: Bobby’s story

Following his mother’s death when he was 16 years old, Bobby came to Canada to live with his biological father and stepmother, both of whom he’d never met.

Bobby quickly realized that he was moving into an already established family. His father worked a great deal and didn’t seem very interested in getting to know him. His stepmother and stepsiblings resented him and felt that he added an extra burden to the family.

One day, within three months of arriving in Canada, Bobby returned home to find his suitcase packed and waiting for him. His father told him that, “things just weren’t working out” and that he’d found Bobby another place to stay — Our Place (Peel), a United Way-funded youth shelter.

Not having any friends or other family to turn to, Bobby had no choice but to call the shelter to ask if he could live there. He arrived, terrified and alone. Bobby was able to stay at the shelter for three weeks while he figured out what to do next. The Our Place staff helped him find a job and a place to live, provided financial assistance, and connected him with other agencies that could give him support once he left the shelter.

Bobby still grieves for his mother, will bear life-long scars from his father’s rejection, and struggles every day to adjust to his new country. These issues cannot be resolved during a brief stay at a shelter. But Our Place (Peel) was a safe haven during a very troubled time. It provided Bobby with the most basic of necessities – shelter, food, financial resources and, maybe most important, acceptance.

back to index

Electronic version of funded agencies directory available

A pdf file of United Way of Peel Region’s 2005-06 Agency Directory is available. This handy electronic version of the directory contains information on United Way’s 55 funded agencies and 115 programs that strive to make our community strong and healthy.

back to index

Outcomes Measurement making an impact

In 2003, United Way of Peel Region launched the Outcomes Measurement Training Project to enhance the ability of non-profit organizations in Peel to effectively measure, improve and communicate their impact. With 10 months remaining in this three-year initiative, 217 participants from 93 agencies (including 41 non-funded agencies) are beginning to see the fruits of their efforts.

Heather Hufton, Executive Director of the Peel Literacy Guild, was initially skeptical about the value of the Outcomes Measurement Training Project for her agency, but quickly discovered its worth. “At first I thought it would just mean more work gathering more statistical information to justify the need for our adult literacy program,” she said. But with the training provided through the project, her staff became aware that they did not fully appreciate the importance of some of their outcomes.

“Some of these ‘secondary’ outcomes that we weren’t really measuring were actually contributing significantly to improving the social and economic conditions of our clients,” continued Heather. “This was a real eye-opener.”

The agency is now looking at ways to measure those outcomes. They include these “new” outcomes when describing their results and have research that indicates that these outcomes lead to significant societal changes.

“Going through the process of developing outcomes measurements has really renewed our organization and added energy to staff and volunteers alike,” said Heather. “I know it will make our agency stronger for years to come.”

At India Rainbow Community Services of Peel, the United Way outcomes measurement workshops helped the agency establish the initial framework for much needed evaluation process. Thanks to the training they received, the staff was able to create and implement an effective evaluation tool to measure client satisfaction. Twenty-five clients have provided feedback.

“We want to assess if there are areas where we can streamline service as well as fill gaps in order to serve clients more effectively,” explained Executive Director Manju Panchapakesan. “The agency has expanded the evaluation process to include its youth program. This evaluation reveals that no other agency in Peel is addressing the concerns of South Asian newcomer and immigrant youth to the same extent as we are.”

For future Outcomes Measurement workshops, please click here.

back to index

Chefs’ Challenge serves up success for United Way

Seven of Mississauga’s top chefs get ready to tempt taste buds at the 2005 Chefs’ Challenge on October 24. Back, L-R: Derek Mayes (Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre), Tom Chlebek (Rosewood Bistro & Wine Bar), Olaf Mertens (On the Curve/TEN), event emcee Erin Davis of CHFI, Dirk Noort (Waterside Inn/Breakwater Restaurant, Bevan Terry (Rogues Restaurant) Front L-R: Jean Paul Angheloni (The Elliott House/Solstice Restaurant & Wine Bar and Ross Miller (Lucy’s Seafood Kitchen & Café). The event raised $100,000 for United Way. (Photo by: www.portraitsbywelcomeabooard.com)

Exquisite cuisine and good company were the order of the evening as the 2005 Chefs’ Challenge raised $100,000 for United Way of Peel Region on October 24. Seven of Mississauga’s top chefs served more than 400 guests at the Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre. Sponsors of the gastronomical gala were AstraZeneca Canada Inc., Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre and the University of Toronto at Mississauga.

“AstraZeneca is proud to be a long-standing supporter of United Way of Peel Region, and pleased to partner with the University of Toronto at Mississauga and the Delta Meadowvale to make this year’s Chefs’ Challenge the most successful yet,” said Michael Cloutier, President and CEO of AstraZeneca Canada Inc. “The time and effort the partners and the many volunteers have dedicated to this event is inspiring – all with a focus on supporting those in need in our great community.”

“The Chefs’ Challenge is an excellent example of the great things that can be accomplished when partners work together to achieve a common goal,” said Shelley White, Executive Director of United Way of Peel Region. “In addition to the sponsors, I would like to thank all volunteers, particularly the restaurants and chefs who provided the delicious food. Of course, the ultimate beneficiaries are the thousands of people in our community who turn to United Way-funded agencies each day for help, support and hope.”

The Chefs’ Challenge featured food prepared by: the Delta Meadowvale Resort & Conference Centre (Chef Derek Mayes), The Elliott House/Solstice Restaurant & Wine Bar (John Paul Angheloni), Lucy’s Seafood Kitchen & Café (Ross Miller), On The Curve/TEN (Olaf Mertens), Rogues Restaurant (Bevan Terry), Rosewood Bistro & Wine Bar (Tom Chlebek) and The Waterside Inn/Breakwater Restaurant (Dirk Noort).

back to index

Argos score touchdown for United Way

United Way supporters gather on the field to form a fan tunnel welcoming the Argonaut players.

United Way of Peel Region joined other United Ways from Ontario at the Rogers Centre in Toronto on October 27 for the game between the Toronto Argonauts and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. While the Argos were busy winning their game against their archrivals, they were also racking up some points for United Way. More than 300 United Way supporters attended the fundraiser. Five participating United Ways received more than $1,600 from the Argos.

Thanks to all who attended the game in support of United Way!

back to index

Helpful parenting information just a click away

The launch of the Success By 6 Peel public website is good news for parents of toddlers like Nicholas Lin and Jessica Zhan.

Parents and caregivers in Peel now have a central website for one-stop parenting support.

In front of a capacity crowd of children with their parents and caregivers, Success By 6 Peel launched its public website on Thursday, October 20 at the Mississauga Centre Early Years Centre. Operating in partnership with United Way of Peel Region, Success By 6 Peel, is dedicated to providing opportunities for children from birth to age 6 to grow and develop to their fullest potential. Launched last February, it is a collaboration of more than 60 partners in business, labour, education, recreation, health, social services and government.

The website will enable parents, grandparents, caregivers and service providers of children to find out about the many organizations, services and resources available to help young children develop to their fullest potential.

“We know that being a parent is one of the toughest jobs in the world. Success By 6 Peel is about making this job a little easier. With a click of a mouse, parents can now find out about specific programs and organizations for their young children, who are under 6 years of age. This website pulls it all together for them,” says Shelley White, Executive Director of the United Way of Peel Region.

With bold imagery and simple wording, the website will help parents find the resources they need on one dedicated site. The launch of the Success By 6 Peel website is also another way that the community is banding together to bring important resources into the hands of the parents, caregivers and service providers in Peel Region.

“We know parents go to Early Years Centres and neighbourhood hubs, like the location of this website launch, to find out ways to help their children thrive. This website is another source for them and addresses the need for information,” said Jim Grieve, Chair of Success By 6 Peel and Director of Education for the Peel District School Board.

Be sure to check out Success By 6 Peel at www.successby6peel.ca.

back to index

We value your feedback!

We are currently evaluating our website to make it more user-friendly. Please let us know what you think about our current site by filling out this online survey by November 30. Your response will help us make the site work better for you.

back to index

Upcoming Events

Spirit Award Nominations Deadline
December 8, 2005
more...

2005 Community Achievement Celebration
February 2, 2005
Pearson Convention Center (look for further details and a ticket order form in the December issue of Way to Go!)

Did You Know?

…that approximately 115,000 people in Peel (over 10% of the population) live below the poverty line?
The issue of poverty has led to an increased need for, among other things, income support, affordable housing, employment training, prenatal care, child care subsidies, support for the elderly and drug rehabilitation centres.

…that more than 16% (12,610) of the seniors population in Peel live alone?
Seniors have a strong desire to maintain their independence and social connections, but limited access to social and support networks, caused by such issues as disability, frailty, inadequate transportation and financial hardship, can create barriers that are impossible to overcome.