2010 editions

United Way celebrates 10 years of Day of Caring™

From left to right
Volunteers take a break from teaching Chinese Newcomers about pumpkin carving at The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association.

Barb Anderson,Intuit Software; Edwina Cheung, The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association; Shelley White, United Way CEO; Lin Ferguson, United Way staff; Daljit Kaur, Intuit Software; Kevin Wang, Intuit Software; Doris Ng, Intuit Software; and Denny Poulin,Intuit Software.

Pumpkin carving, yard cleanups, painting and computer training were among the 22 projects completed today by more than 125 volunteers during the 10th anniversary of United Way of Peel Region’s Day of Caring™. The semi-annual event provides a unique opportunity for employees from companies and organizations across the region to spend a day helping at a local United Way funded agency. Through their experience, the volunteers learn more about community issues and the services supported by United Way.

“During the last 10 years we have seen tremendous growth in Peel and with that, an increased demand for agency services,” said United Way President and CEO Shelley White. “Day of Caring™ is instrumental in preserving agency resources and ensuring maximum funding goes to the vital frontline programs and services that hundreds of thousands of men, women and children in our community depend on.”

Over the last decade more than 2,200 employees across Peel contributed more than 13,000 hours of their time to United Way funded agencies through Day of Caring™.

“We want to extend a special congratulations and thank you to the Region of Peel and its employees for their dedication and ongoing support of United Way and our community,” said White. “While many organizations have participated in Day of Caring™ over the years, the Region of Peel is the only one that has participated each year since we started Day of Caring™ in 2000.”

The event was sponsored by TD Canada Trust employees serving Mississauga. Paint and related supplies were donated by the Brampton North Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse, and a pizza lunch was provided by Pizza Nova for volunteer groups of 8 or more.

To read our full news release with a list of participating agencies, corporations and organizations click here.

Photos can be viewed at on Flickr.

United Way announces PepsiCo Canada Leadership Challenge Grant

Photo credit: Mike Scholz

From left to right: Carl Oxholm, 2010 Board Chair, United Way of Peel Region; Linda Kuga Pikulin, President, PepsiCo Beverages Canada; Marc Guay, President, PepsiCo Foods Canada; and Shelley White, CEO, United Way of Peel Region

United Way of Peel Region is thrilled to announce the creation of its first-ever Leadership Challenge Grant. The 2010 PepsiCo Canada Leadership Challenge Grant, supported jointly by PepsiCo Beverages Canada and PepsiCo Foods Canada, will match dollar-for-dollar, up to a total of $100,000, all new or increased gifts of $1,000 or more to United Way’s Community Fund. This matching grant is available for the duration of the 2010 campaign.

“Stepping up to provide the inaugural Leadership Challenge Grant is one way that PepsiCo Canada can demonstrate its strong commitment to the community in which we live, work and do business,” said Linda Kuga Pikulin, President, PepsiCo Beverages Canada. “United Way creates lasting change in the lives of individuals, families and neighbourhoods in our community. PepsiCo Canada is proud to be an active partner in supporting this vital work.”

The grant gives individuals who are considering a gift to United Way an extra incentive to demonstrate outstanding generosity and concern for our community.

“At PepsiCo Canada we are committed to delivering our mission of ‘Performance with Purpose’, which is, achieving success while leaving a positive imprint on society,” said Marc Guay, President, PepsiCo Foods Canada. “Establishing this Leadership Challenge Grant for United Way creates momentum for the 2010 campaign by prompting more people to give, and we are confident that it will also help to build better futures for thousands of people in our community.”

To read our full news release click here.

Sylvia gives thanks

Thanksgiving was always a special time for Sylvia Flynn. In addition to it being one of her favourite holidays, it was also her wedding anniversary. She and her husband Douglas had married on a Thanksgiving weekend more than 50 years ago. Since then, every Thanksgiving, Sylvia would prepare an intimate meal for two: turkey or roast beef, potatoes, squash and other vegetables. It was their tradition until 2004 when Douglas unexpectedly passed away. With no children, Sylvia in her 80s, was left on her own.

“He was my whole life,” she says.

Several months after her husband’s death, Sylvia read in her local newspaper about the Caledon Meals on Wheels Congregate Dining program for seniors and decided to join. Funded by United Way, the program reduces isolation by providing social dinning and other programs that assist seniors to stay connected with their community and live active, social lifestyles.

Thanks to United Way and the Caledon Meals on Wheels Congregate Dining program, this Thanksgiving Sylivia was not alone. She enjoyed an entertaining afternoon which included a delicious meal in the pleasant company of other residents from her community.

“It was such a lovely day and I had a great time,” says Sylvia. “I’m already looking forward to next year.”

When you support United Way, you invest in programs and services that help create a healthy community where no one is left behind, left out or left on their own.

“Being able to get out and socialize really makes life worth living,” says Sylvia.

Chinese hub officially opens

Left to Right: Audrey Chiang, Chair, Mississauga Board of Chinese Professionals & Business. Allan Thompson, Regional Councillor, Region of Peel; Genevieve Wong, President, Carefirst Seniors & Community Services Association; Bob Delaney, MPP Mississauga-Streetsville; Bonnie Crombie, MP Mississauga-Streetsville; Victor Oh, Vice Chair, Safe City Mississauga; Hazel McCallion, Mississauga Mayor; Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism; Bob Dechert, MP Mississauga Erindale; Kathy Zhao, President, Mississauga Mandarin Association; Stephen Chu, President, Mississauga Chinese Business Association; Sharon Douglas, Assistant Director, Community Investment, United Way of Peel Region.

Federal, provincial, regional and municipal leaders, along with community partners and volunteers gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the official grand opening of the Peel Chinese Community Service Hub (PCCSH) in September. Located in Unit 81 at 1177 Central Parkway West, the PCCSH is a culturally sensitive, language-specific, social service centre for Chinese residents and immigrants of all ages. It aims to link residents with volunteer, employment and settlement services to enhance successful integration. It also serves as an information and education centre with a broad range of programs designed to strengthen neighborhoods and empower our community.

The PCCSH was a recommendation based on the 2008 report, The Needs and Challenges of the Chinese Community in Peel Region by United Way of Peel’s Chinese Advisory Council. It is a collaborative initiative between the Mississauga Board of Chinese Professionals and Businesses; Mississauga Chinese Business Association; Mississauga Mandarin Association; Region of Peel Human Services; Chinese Advisory Council, United Way of Peel Region; and Carefirst Seniors & Community Services Association.

Peel is home to more than 60,000 people of Chinese origin who make up 9.4 per cent of Peel’s visible minority population.

Tri-hospital joint United Way campaign exceeds goal

In the first-ever tri-hospital campaign for United Way of Peel Region and United Way Toronto, staff, physicians and volunteers at the Credit Valley Hospital, Trillium Health Centre and William Osler Health System joined forces to raise an incredible $88,084. The result is almost triple their $30,000 goal.

Throughout the campaign, the three hospitals competed to raise the most money, achieve the highest percentage increase in donations over last year and demonstrate the strongest spirit. Trillium Health Centre received the Percentage Increase Award for achieving a 476% increase over last year in total funds raised. William Osler Health System walked away with the Spirit Award by sending a team out into the community to visit United Way agencies and meet their clients and staff. The Credit Valley Hospital won the overall competition by raising $40,147.

“This campaign has been a unique opportunity for our three hospitals to come together in support of people in our neighbourhoods who need the services of United Way agencies,” said Matt Anderson, President and CEO of William Osler Health System. “The United Way is a critical resource in our community for our friends, our neighbours, our patients and their families.”

To read our full news release click here.

Register for the Marathon and save HST

Register now for the 2011 Mississauga Marathon, taking place next May 14 and 15. The earlier you register, the earlier you can benefit from outstanding bonus offers. Register by October 27 and save the HST. The sooner you register, the more you save.

As a charity partner of the Marathon, United Way invites you to register as an individual runner, join a team, or pledge a runner. There are a variety of running events to enter, ensuring a fun run for all ages and athletic abilities. Registrations received by May 2 will have their first name or team name printed on their bib.

All pledges donated to United Way through the marathon go directly to our Community Fund, which helps change lives and build better futures. Last year donors contributed $3,300 to United Way through the marathon.
To learn more about the marathon, registration and bonus offers visit www.mississaugamarathon.com or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

See Nutcracker for United Way

Here’s your chance to enjoy the arts and help support our community at the same time! Mississauga’s Living Arts Centre is offering a special promotion to benefit United Way.

When you purchase tickets to The Nutcracker (December 4 and 5), enter the promotional code UNITED and 20 per cent of your ticket price will be donated to United Way's Community Fund.

To learn more about this great opportunity, click here, visit www.livingartscentre.ca or call the Living Arts Centre box office at (905) 306-6000.

When he was 22, Robert Ditchburn lost touch with reality. He was consumed with thoughts that his coworkers were talking about him behind his back and that his employer was trying to harm him.

Alarmed by Robert's behaviour, his father took him to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and given medication. Robert had joined the ranks of the 1 in 5 people in Canada who will personally experience a mental illness. Robert returned to work two years later but relapsed when he stopped taking his medication. After a two-month hospitalization,

Robert lost his job and feared for his future. He agonized over how he would get his life back on track. More

October 30
Region of Peel 5K Run, Walk and Roll

November 17
Step Up and Learn - Negotiations/ Influencing workshop

December 4, 5
The Nutcracker
at the Living Arts Centre
20% of ticket price donated to UWPR with promo code UNITED.

Posters:
Download 11x17 or 8.5x11 posters featuring the stories showcased in the 2009 Annual Report. Click here!

Announcing our 2010 Campaign goal

At an energetic and rousing campaign kick-off at the Hershey Centre SportZone, United Way of Peel Region Campaign Chair Barb Leavitt announced a 2010 fundraising goal of $13.75-million.

United Way of Peel Region Campaign Chair Barb Leavitt announced a 2010 fundraising goal of $13.75-million at a rousing campaign kick-off held at the Hershey Centre SportZone on September 17.

“There’s no question that our economy continues to present challenges for many people,” said Leavitt, President of Baxter Corporation. “Yes, there are hopeful signs that improvement is on the way, but there can be a long delay between recovery in the market and recovery in the community.”

Highlights of the event included a flash mob dance choreographed by Mississauga native Blake McGrath, a choreographer and judge on CTV’s So You Think You Can Dance Canada, and remarks by Mayors Hazel McCallion of Mississauga and Marolyn Morrison of the Town of Caledon. Troy Taylor, a volunteer youth mentor and former little brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peel, shared the story of the difference the organization has made in his life. He is now pursuing studies at the University of Guelph.

A special emphasis in this year’s campaign is the focus on increasing the number of Leadership gifts to United Way’s Community Fund. Leadership gifts are donations of $1,000 or more in a calendar year. Last year more than 1,100 generous donors contributed at this level.

United Way’s kick-off event was sponsored by TD Bank Financial Group. Other event supporters included Blake McGrath, Canada Dry-Motts, Casa Film Productions, Courtyard by Marriott, CueGo Audio Visual, the Hershey Centre and On the Move Catering.

There are various ways to support United Way in our community. Organizations, businesses and individuals interested in becoming involved can contact United Way at 905-602-3650 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Photos of the event can be viewed at on Flickr. Videos of the event can be viewed on YouTube.

Troy’s on the right track

“I could have been out in the streets doing anything,” says 19-year-old Troy Taylor. “Who’s to say what could have happened to me?”

At age 9 Troy felt a void in his life. His parents had separated when he was 4 and he had gone several years without having a consistent male role model. As a result he started to put less effort into his schooling and didn’t have much faith or trust in commitments by male authority figures.

To fill the void and get troy on the right track, Troy’s mom reached out to Big Brothers Big Sisters Peel, a United Way-funded agency. Initially, Troy participated in group outings and activities. He was later matched with his first big brother through the One to One friendship program when he was 10 and graduated from the program at 19.

Today, Troy is attending university and studying to be a mechanical engineer. He is a youth mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters Peel and an active volunteer in his community.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters Peel made me the person I am today,” he says. “Through the program, I learned to respect myself and others, and the values and rewards of volunteerism.”

Your donations to United Way’s Community Fund support Big Brothers Big Sisters Peel. United we can help youth reach their full potential.

Three Peel hospitals support United Way

United Way CEO, Shelley White, spoke at the tri-hospital kick-off on September 14.

In a strong show of community spirit, leaders from The Credit Valley Hospital, Trillium Health Centre and William Osler Health System launched the first-ever tri-hospital campaign for United Way of Peel Region and United Way Toronto on September 14. Together, the hospitals — which have sites across Peel Region and Toronto— set a goal of $30,000 for United Way’s Community Fund to support vital local social services, programs and initiatives. However, at a mid-campaign event on September 22 the hospitals announced they’ve already raised more than $50,000!

“As hospitals we already work together to support our patients and their care within our hospital communities,” said Michelle DiEmanuele, President and CEO of The Credit Valley Hospital. “This joint initiative to support United Way takes our partnership a step further. It is an opportunity for us to make a further difference in the community where we live and work through our personal donations. By supporting United Way, I believe we are really supporting each other.”

The campaign officially launched at Credit Valley on September 14 and concludes on October 7 at Osler’s Brampton Civic Hospital site. As part of a friendly competition, the three hospitals will vie for unique trophies and bragging rights for the most money raised, highest employee participation rate and the strongest spirit.

For their campaign, the three hospitals created the slogan, “United we can make a difference in our neighbourhoods”. The slogan will help inspire support and remind the community that United Way and the hospitals work together to improve lives.

“United Way is the largest non-governmental funder of social services in our community and last year more than 420,000 people in Peel Region received support from a service funded by United Way,” said Shelley White, CEO of United Way of Peel Region. “We are thrilled with the initiative of our local hospitals in demonstrating another facet of their care for our community.”

Social purpose enterprise gives Nigel a new purpose in life

After being diagnosed with schizophrenia more than 10 years ago, Nigel Harry, 41, began spending a lot of time alone. Even with medication, he still found it difficult to interact with others and was unable to maintain employment.

“My anxiety was so great I had a hard time doing simple things such as grocery shopping or even going through the drive-thru at Tim Hortons,” he says.

A family member referred Nigel to Peace Ranch, a United Way funded agency that provides supportive housing and rehabilitative programs for adults who have serious mental illnesses, enabling them to live and work in our community.

At Peace Ranch, Nigel works in the Market Garden which grows organic produce and sells it to residents in Caledon. Last year the Market Garden received a Social Purpose Enterprise (SPE) grant funded by United Way and the Region of Peel. A social purpose enterprise is an income-generating business created by a non-profit organization to support a social mission. United Way invests in social purpose enterprises to help provide job training and employment opportunities to individuals outside the traditional workforce.

“The Market Garden has given me a new purpose in life,” says Nigel. “It has also given me the confidence to interact socially and pursue other employment options. One day I hope to start my own business.”

“The SPE grant has been instrumental in increasing Market Garden revenue which will ultimately create more employment for our clients,” says Eric Tripp-McKay, Peace Ranch Executive Director.

To learn more about Social Purpose Enterprise grants visit www.unitedwaypeel.org.

Day of Caring registration is open

Discover the rewards of volunteerism while learning more about United Way funded agencies and services in our community. Register today for United Way’s Day of Caring, taking place on October 21, and experience a unique opportunity to spend one day volunteering at a local United Way funded agency.

Our online registration is now open and makes registering easier than ever. Choose from a variety of volunteer opportunities that best suit your skills and interests. Along with painting and yard cleanups, projects for our fall Day of Caring include pumpkin carving with newcomers and sprucing up a daycare.

Day of Caring can be an excellent team-building experience and your participation helps save agency resources by undertaking projects that otherwise may not have been completed. During United Way’s last Day of Caring volunteers gave more than 1,000 hours of their time to complete 25 different projects at 18 local United Way agencies.

Fall Day of Caring is generously sponsored by TD Canada Trust employees serving Mississauga.

To register or to learn more click here.

See Forever Plaid or Nutcracker for United Way

Here’s your chance to enjoy the arts and help support our community at the same time! Mississauga’s Living Arts Centre is offering a special promotion to benefit United Way.

When you purchase tickets to either Forever Plaid (October 22, 23 and 24) or The Nutcracker (December 4 and 5), enter the promotional code UNITED and 20 per cent of your ticket price will be donated to United Way's Community Fund.

To learn more about this great opportunity, visit www.livingartscentre.ca or call the Living Arts Centre box office at (905) 306-6000.

Announcing our 2010 Pacesetters

Many thanks to the 41 organizations and businesses that have stepped up to help set the pace for the 2010 campaign. United Way announced its 2010 Pacesetters at its annual campaign kick-off held at the Hershey Centre SportZone on September 17. Pacesetters are companies and organizations that demonstrate their commitment to United Way by pledging their support prior to the public launch of the campaign.

“It is with great pleasure that we announce our 2010 Pacesetters and thank them for taking a leadership role in jump-starting our campaign,” said 2010 Campaign Chair Barb Leavitt, President of Baxter Corporation. “The support of these companies and organizations provides a strong example of community commitment and inspires others to follow their lead.”

To view our list of Pacesetters, click here.

Young Leaders Council launches professional development series

On September 28, United Way of Peel Region’s Young Leaders Council (YLC) will launch Step Up & Learn, a six-part professional development series featuring workshops on public speaking, communications, negotiation, team building, professional image and networking.

United Way is working to prepare emerging leaders for success in their professional lives and in their roles as leaders in Peel Region. The YLC is a group of volunteers aged 20-35 who are dedicated to creating a legacy of spirited giving and volunteerism within our community.

The skills development workshops will expand and develop professional skills through targeted hands-on sessions. The monthly workshops are open to individuals aged 20 to 35 years and will be led by Michelle Manglal-Lan, a facilitator with more than 15 years of leadership experience in multiple industries in both operations and corporate environments. Individuals can register for one or all six workshops at www.unitedwaypeel.org. The deadline to register for each workshop is 12 noon on the day of the workshop.

Each workshop costs $15 and takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. at PriceWaterhouseCoopers, One Robert Speck Parkway, Suite 1100, Mississauga. Participants will receive a participation letter for each workshop they attend and a certificate for attending the entire series. The following workshops are being offered:

1. Public Speaking –September 28, 2010

2. Communications – October 20, 2010

3. Negotiation/Influencing Skills – November 17, 2010

4. Team Building – January 19, 2011

5. Professional Image – February 16, 2011

6. Networking – March 15, 2011

How much can you afford to give?

Reprinted with permission from Ted Rechtshaffen

One question that occasionally comes from clients is the following:

“I give $2,500 a year to charity. Can I afford to give this? What if I gave $5,000 a year, would that be something I can budget? Is there a smarter way to give?”

These are reasonable questions, but how do you answer them?

Here is the answer you’re most likely to get from an investment adviser:

“If you are feeling comfortable from a cash-flow perspective, you can probably afford what you are giving. You might be able to do more, but I wouldn’t do too much at this stage.”

The reason for this general and fairly vague answer is simple: The adviser has no way of knowing and, in general, would rather clients kept more money invested and gave less away.

There is a better answer.

I believe that if Canadians had a better handle on what they could afford to donate, in many cases they would be comfortable giving more. To help with this, TriDelta has put together an online tool called the Donation Planner, which answers the basic question: “How much could I afford to give?”

In many cases, the number will surprise you.

Charities that want to answer this question for their donors can brand the donation planner and put it on their website.

Why is this whole question and discussion important?

In many cases, Canadians give less than they want to because they do not include charitable giving as part of their financial-planning discussions. They often don’t understand the true tax implications of giving while they are living. To support the point, we only need to look at how Canadians give versus Americans.

In Canada, we donate much less than Americans. A Fraser Institute study called “Generosity in Canada and the United States,” based on the 2007 tax year, shows that in the state of New York, 30.3 per cent of tax filers made a donation, and donations represented 1.85 per cent of their taxable income. Across the border in Ontario, 25.7 per cent made a donation, but it represented just 0.84 per cent of our taxable income. In Ontario, we are giving 45 per cent as much as those in New York.

Given the relative prosperity of Canadians these days, we should be able to see greater support for our vital charities than our neighbours to the south. There are some cultural and tax reasons behind the differences in giving, but one of them is simply that many of us don’t really know how much we could afford to give.

Now is as good a time as any to start to include this in your family discussions or in those with a financial planner.

Ted Rechtshaffen is president and CEO of TriDelta Financial Partners, a firm that provides independent financial planning advice. He was vice-president of business strategy at a major Canadian brokerage firm and found that the interests of the client were often not aligned with the interests of the adviser or the interests of the company.

When he was employed as a chef, Tong Mai worked many long hours. But after retiring 10 years ago, he found himself sitting in front of the television all day. His wife, Irene, kept busy doing housework.

Tong grew restless and Irene longed for more, so they contacted Carefirst Seniors and Community Services Association, a United Way funded agency that provides programs and services to support, educate and enhance the lives of seniors in our community. Since connecting with Carefirst, the couple, who have been married more than 50 years, are having the time of their lives. Tong, 82, and Irene, 75, participate in Tai Chi, English classes, Karaoke, and computer training. They have expanded their social network and enjoy social outings and events, while living an independent, healthy and active lifestyle.

September 28:
Step Up and Learn - Public Speaking workshop

October 20:
Step Up and Learn - Communications workshop

October 21:
Day of Caring

November 17
Step Up and Learn - Negotiations/ Influencing workshop

Posters:
Download 11x17 or 8.5x11 posters featuring the stories showcased in the 2009 Annual Report. Click here!

Registered Charities in Peel are invited to apply for grants up to $10,000 to explore the possibility of starting a social purpose enterprise (SPE). Social Purpose Enterprise Technical Assistance grants totalling $50,000 are jointly offered by United Way and the Region of Peel. The grant is designed to support social purpose enterprise development from idea exploration, preparation and development to project launch and growth. Organizations are encouraged to attend an information session on August 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon at United Way, 5170 Dixie Road, Suite 300, Mississauga.

“Social Purpose Enterprises are income-generating businesses that also support a social mission,” explains United Way CEO Shelley White. “SPEs provide individuals outside the traditional workforce with employment and job training, as well as an opportunity to earn income, improve their housing, enhance life skills and self-esteem, and create better connections to their community.”

United Way launched its Social Purpose Enterprise initiative in 2007 as part of its poverty reduction strategy. The grants aim to help organizations identify potential business activities, conduct market research, assess organizational readiness and undertake business planning activities. Previous SPE technical grant recipients include a catering company that would provide job training and income for domestic abuse survivors, an eco-friendly e-waste management service that would train and employ seniors and youth, and a program that engages youth in producing and marketing original artwork.

“Successful social purpose enterprises assist in reducing poverty and help build more inclusive and healthy communities for everyone,” says Anita Stellinga, United Way’s Director of Community Investment.

The application deadline for the Social Purpose Enterprise Technical Grants is October 8, 2010 at 4 p.m.

To RSVP by July 28 for the information session, or for more information about this funding opportunity and how to receive an application, please contact Lorna Dixon, Senior Manager, United Way Community Investment, at 905-602-3621 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Theresa is empowered

Theresa Gyampah was being verbally, emotionally and physically abused by her husband who threatened to have her deported if she ever left him. As a newcomer to Canada, she didn’t know where to turn or who to trust. After enduring years of abuse, fearing for her life and worried about how her children were being affected, Theresa called a helpline and was referred to a local shelter.

“My kids were getting older and I could no longer expose them to the violence. Plus I was afraid if I didn’t leave he would eventually kill me,” she explains.

Staff at the shelter connected Theresa with the Violence and Abuse Prevention Program, provided through African Community Services and funded by United Way. The program aims to reduce violence and abuse within the African Canadian community through culturally sensitive and language-specific services. Theresa participated in workshops and group counselling that helped enhance her self-esteem and confidence, and assisted her in building a better life for herself and her children.

“The workshops made me realize I wasn’t alone and that there were other women who shared my pain,” says Theresa. “They also helped me understand that I had legal rights and that I deserved to be happy.”

Today, Theresa 49, and her three children live a life free from abuse. She is thankful for the support and caring she received from the staff at African Community Services, and volunteers at the agency to create awareness about abuse and empower other women in her community.

Your donations to United Way’s Community Fund are invested in programs and services that help build strong families, and support woman and children to build new lives free from violence and abuse.

Left to Right: Jacke Dheer of Rogers Television; Andrew Kania, MP, Brampton West; Eve Adams, Councillor, Mississauga Ward 5; Parminder Singh (Volunteer); Pam Hundal (Sponsor); Sonia Layne, Chairperson Malton Community Festival.

A Neighbourhood Development grant, jointly funded by United Way and Region of Peel helped bring more than1,500 Malton residents together for the Malton Neighbourhood Festival held in June. The two-day festival included a community BBQ and various activities and events such as crafts, face painting, a youth leadership conference, senior’s bingo, and a talent show. One of the highlights was the Canada Day Celebration and cake cutting ceremony.

This is the third year the festival has received a United Way Neighbourhood Development grant. The annual festival aims to help address issues identified by Malton residents and engage the diverse community in a celebration of pride and unity.

Through its Neighbourhood Development initiative, launched in 2007, United Way of Peel Region is investing in projects that address priority needs, create opportunities for resident engagement and enhance neighbourhood pride.

Grant recipients qualify for World Championships

I Rock with the One, recipients of a 2009 Youth in Action grant jointly funded by United Way of Peel Region and Region of Peel will represent Canada at the 2010 World Hip Hop Championship in Las Vegas in August. The group of young dancers from Mississauga, aged 12 to 16, won first prize at the 2010 East Coast Canadian Hip Hop Varsity Championship held in Montreal and qualified for the World Championships.

I Rock with the One, in partnership with the Gateway Centre for New Canadians received a 2009 Youth In Action grant to execute Project One: Inspire, a project that helped build leadership skills and enhance self-esteem in youth through dance and mentorship sessions held at three Mississauga high schools.

Project One: Inspire was one of 11 projects led and organized by youth in Peel that received a Youth in Action grant. The purpose of the grant is to motivate and encourage youth to become involved in their communities, to seek and empower youth leadership within neighbourhoods, and to raise awareness and inspire change regarding issues that are of interest to youth in Peel.

The Youth in Action grant was developed in 2009 by United Way’s Young Leaders Council, a group of volunteers between the ages of 20 and 35 years old who are committed to creating a legacy of volunteerism and spirited giving within Peel Region.

To learn more about United Way’s Young Leaders Council visit www.unitedwaypeel.org.

United Way of Peel Region’s 2010 public campaign kicks off at the Hershey Centre SportZone in Mississauga on September 17. This year’s theme, United We Can, emphasizes the power we have when we all come together for a common cause. Join us from 8 to 9:30 a.m. as we celebrate and announce our fundraising goal. Stay tuned for more details in the August issue of Way to Go.

United Way of Peel Region welcomes Marilyn Friedmann as its Chief Development Officer. In this position, Marilyn is responsible for the strategic vision and leadership of all functions pertaining to Resource Development including annual campaign, major individual giving, planned giving, the endowment fund and special gift initiatives.

Marilyn holds the Certified Management Consultant (CMC) designation. Her extensive career includes more than 20 years experience in marketing, fundraising and management consulting within the private and nonprofit sectors. Marilyn previously served as Vice President of Donor Development with World Vision and more recently as a marketing and resource development consultant with the international development organization Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA). Marilyn has also served with Nestle Enterprises, Manulife Financial, Mattel Canada, Sun Life Financial, Plan International of Canada, and several other organizations.

“We are very excited to have Marilyn leading our Resource Development team,” said United Way CEO Shelley White. “Her strong business skills and experience, combined with her passion and commitment for poverty reduction and humanitarian concerns make her a great asset.”

In 2007, Marilyn received accreditation with the Partnership Brokers Accreditation Scheme in the U.K., a program designed to build skills for designing and implementing effective multi-sector partnerships for sustainable development between business, government and civil society. In 2006, she received the Certificate in Corporate Social Responsibility from the University of St. Michael’s College, University of Toronto. Marilyn holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management and Economics from The University of Guelph.

Laureen Rennie has been appointed Director of the Peel Newcomer Strategy Group (PNSG). She has been seconded from the Region of Peel to this position. PNSG was established in 2005 by United Way of Peel Region and the Region of Peel to champion a collaborative and comprehensive strategy for the successful integration of newcomers in the economy and all aspects of the Peel community.

In 2007, Laureen co-led a joint Community Investment Strategy review for the Region of Peel in partnership with United Way of Peel Region. During her 15-year career in human services, Laureen has held various management positions with responsibilities ranging from supervising daily operations, developing, implementing and evaluating employment programs and services to administering community grants, writing council reports and funding proposals.

Prior to joining PNSG, Laureen held the position of Project Manager, Peel Immigration Labour Market Survey with the Region of Peel. She also worked for the not-for-profit sector in the area of immigrant settlement and integration where she was instrumental in implementing the Peel Host Program.

Laureen has received many accolades for her community work. In 2004, she was recognized by the City of Toronto Mayor David Miller and Councillor Peter Li Preti for her contributions in developing and implementing grassroots initiatives in helping vulnerable populations in priority neighbourhoods. She is trained in the field of social work and is a certified cross-cultural trainer. She received a Certificate in Project Management from the University of Toronto in 2006.

For Jennifer Deathe and her husband Richard, the birth of their first child was a time filled with fear and emotional pain. Their son James was born with severe physical malformations to his legs, requiring the amputation of his left leg and extensive reconstructive surgery. Both parents felt devastated and helpless.

In a deep depression, Jennifer reached out to Caledon Parent-Child Centre, a United Way funded agency that provides support, resources and education that strengthens families and promotes the optimal development of children. In addition to medical referrals, the Centre provided Jennifer and Richard with emotional support and counselling to help them cope during their son’s surgery.

More than a year after the surgery, Jennifer, Richard and James, now 2, are doing great. His mom reports that James climbs, jumps and gets into mischief on a regular basis. Now with the help of a prosthetic leg, he is learning to walk.

September 17:
2010 Kick-off

October 21:
Day of Caring

The United Way of Peel Region’s Chinese Advisory Council is part of a collaborative group helping to enhance access to programs and services for Peel’s Chinese Community through the Peel Chinese Community Service Hub.

The Hub, which opened May 12 at 1177 Central Pkwy. W., is a culturally sensitive, language-specific, service centre for Chinese residents and immigrants of all ages. It aims to link Peel’s Chinese community with volunteer, employment and settlement services to enhance successful integration. It also serves as an information and education centre with a broad range of programs to empower community residents and strengthen the neighborhood. Peel is home to more than 60,000 people of Chinese origin who make up 9.4 per cent of Peel’s visible minority population.

The hub was a recommendation based on the 2008 report, The needs and challenges of the Chinese community by United Way’s Chinese Advisory Council. The Peel Chinese Community Service Hub is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation. In addition to United Way’s Chinese Advisory Council, other collaborators in the project are the Mississauga Board of Chinese Professional and Businesses, Mississauga Chinese Business Association, Mississauga Mandarin Association, Region of Peel, and Carefirst Seniors & Community Services Association.

United Way board member Dr. Colin Saldanha received the 2010 Mississauga Citizen of the Year Award on May 20. The Gordon S. Shipp Award is given annually to a Mississauga resident who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the community.

In addition to his extensive list of achievements, Colin has held several key volunteer positions with United Way. He is currently a member of our Board of Directors and Chair of our Advocacy Committee. He served as Board Chair in 2007-08 and is an active member of the Mississauga Summit Steering Committee.

While Yoshie Ikebe’s husband was at work, she felt lost. Her husband had sponsored her to come to Canada in 2007 and she longed to be a contributing member of society. She was 33, didn’t speak English very well, and wasn’t sure how her qualifications matched with the available job opportunities. In September 2009, while surfing the Internet, she came across a volunteer opportunity with The Cross Cultural Community Services Association (TCCSA), a United Way-funded agency.

As a volunteer with TCCSA, Yoshie improved her English while gaining valuable Canadian work experience. A year later, she applied for a paid position with TCCSA and was hired. Recently she was promoted to the position of Settlement Worker where she inspires and assists other newcomers to integrate successfully into Canadian society.

In May, 179 employees from 19 organizations across Peel united in record numbers to support our community by participating in United Way of Peel Region’s spring Day of Caring™. It’s the most participants at a spring Day of Caring™ since the event began in 2000 and more than double last year’s numbers. Collectively, volunteers today gave more than 1,000 hours of their time to complete 25 different projects at 18 local United Way agencies.

The spring Day of Caring™, generously sponsored by TD Canada Trust employees serving Mississauga, is an opportunity for employees to play a direct role in community building and experience firsthand how their contributions support local United Way-funded agencies. Volunteers worked on a variety of projects including participating in mock job interviews, helping out at the food bank, doing yard work, painting, gardening, spring clean up, and office duties.

“It is really inspiring to see the record number of volunteers,” said United Way CEO Shelley White. “By participating in Day of Caring™, volunteers experience a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a difference in our community while learning more about United Way-funded programs and services. They also save agency resources by undertaking projects that otherwise may not have been completed.”

For a list of participating agencies and corporations and to read our full news release, click here.

For more information on how to participate in the fall Day of Caring™ on October 21, visit www.unitedwaypeel.org. Click here to view the photo gallery.

RSA employees donate new BBQ tank to Credit Valley YMCA during Day of Caring.

From left to right: Gavin Georgeson, Carson Cheeseman, Emma Mallory, Chris Snook, Olga Mirka, Shane Vallance, Marie Richards, Tricia Ayotte, Ana Paula Marcos and (Jason Spencer missing from photo)

This April, RSA Group celebrated its 300th birthday and decided to give back by encouraging employees to fundraise, volunteer and donate items to their local communities.

RSA employees who volunteered for United Way’s spring Day of Caring™ helped out with whatever needed to be done - from gardening and putting together picnic benches, to painting and organizing closets. Despite rainy weather, employees were full of spirit and excitement. One group of employees who volunteered at the Credit Valley YMCA, were so motivated and inspired by what they saw, they purchased additional needed items including a new BBQ tank and some garden stepping stones for the agency.

Join us to hear Community advocate and poverty fighter Mark Chamberlain, share his insights at United Way’s 2009 Annual General Meeting to be held June 11 at 7:30 a.m. at Lionhead Golf and Country Club in Brampton. Mark is the President and Senior Partner of Trivairs Ltd. and serves on the boards of several innovation-based and social enterprise organizations.

The theme of this year’s event is “Building resilient communities.” The meeting will include reports from CEO Shelley White, Board Chair Michelle Cole, and a presentation of financial statements from United Way’s Treasurer Norma Trim. New board members will be elected and the 2009 Annual Report will be released.

A complimentary continental breakfast will be provided and everyone is welcome. There’s still time to register online at www.unitedwaypeel.org or contact Jacqueline Pereira at 905-602-3650 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Baxter Corporation president and United Way Campaign Chair, Barb Leavitt and Baxter’s Employee Campaign Chair John Minicucci were in good spirits after completing the 5k race.

Baxter Corporation President and United Way Campaign Chair Barb Leavitt and 127 Baxter employees participated in a variety of running events to support United Way at the Mississauga Marathon held May 14 to 16.

“It was a fabulous run for a great cause,” said Barb.

Two airline tickets to anywhere in North America (donated by RBC Insurance) are among the fabulous silent auction items available at United Way of Peel Region’s 19th annual Leaders on the Links golf tournament at Lionhead Golf and Country Club on July 5.

In addition to the silent auction, your day on the links will include a golf cart, locker, guest gift, on-course lunch, and three-course dinner.

Fees are $500 for a single golfer, $2000 for a foursome and $2,300 for a combination of a foursome and hole sponsorship. Proceeds from our Leaders on the Links tournament directly support United Way’s Community Fund which invests in programs and services that improve lives and help our community thrive.

Don’t miss out. There are limited spaces still available. Download your registration form at www.unitedwaypeel.org, complete form and fax to 905-602-3651 or mail to 5170 Dixie Rd, Suite 300, Mississauga, ON L4W 1E3.

Title sponsors for this year’s tournament are Deloitte, General Mills Canada Corporation, Purolator, RBC Insurance and Telus. There are still some great sponsorship opportunities available. To learn more please contact Lesley Allison at 905-602-3629 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

For more information on Leaders on the Links visit www.unitedwaypeel.org or contact events manager Lin Ferguson at 905-602-3625 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . We are also seeking additional items for the silent auction.

In April 2002, 6-year-old Nolan Cattell's father died of a brain tumour. With no siblings or relatives living locally, Nolan and his mother, JoAnn, were on their own.

JoAnn wanted her only child to have a male role model - someone he could learn from and have fun with while maturing. She contacted a United Way-funded agency that placed Nolan in a group program in 2003 where he could interact with other children in his single-parent situation. The ultimate goal of the program was to match the children to adult role models. Over the course of the program, the agency introduced Nolan to a young man named Nat Marchica and the two were officially matched in 2005.

Nolan and Nat shared something in common. Nat's father had passed away 10 years ago. Like Nolan, Nat had no relatives living nearby.

"My dad passed away when I was 19," said Nat when asked why he got involved in the United Way-funded program. "I wanted to help someone in similar circumstances."

Today, Nolan, age 13, and Nat have a strong bond. They engage in many activities together, including soccer, going to the movies, attending sports events, and playing with Nat's dog. The two try to get together on a weekly basis, usually on weekends.

When asked what is the most important thing Nat has done for him, Nolan replied with a smile on his face. "He's helped me with social issues - like girls."

How has Nat's relationship with Nolan affected his life? "It's changed it for the better. It makes a hard day better. It makes me feel like a kid again," said Nat.
More

June 11:
Annual General Meeting
July 5:
Leaders on the Links Golf Tournament

Barb Leavitt, president of Baxter Corporation and a leader in the healthcare products industry, is taking on a new healthcare challenge. As United Way of Peel Region’s 2010 Campaign Chair, she will help improve long-term health in the community where we live and work.

“I believe that by working together we can make a real difference in our community,” says Leavitt. “United, we can affect long-lasting change. That’s why I’m so proud and excited to be chairing the 2010 campaign.”

As Chair of the 2010 campaign, Leavitt will lead United Way’s Campaign Cabinet, a team of high profile volunteers who are leaders in our community’s corporate and public sectors, organized labour, and funded agencies.

“Barb’s extensive business and leadership experience combined with her dedication to improving the health of our community make her an excellent choice for the 2010 Campaign Chair,” says United Way CEO Shelley White. “It is a pleasure and a privilege to have her on board.”

Click here to read our full news release.

In honour of National Volunteer Week (April 18 to 24), United Way thanks the thousands of dedicated volunteers who help keep our organization running all year-round.

As a volunteer-led organization, United Way promotes and supports voluntarism and helps mobilize the caring power of our community. When people volunteer their time, energy and skills, they help our community thrive.

In 2006 United Way of Peel Region Board of Directors adopted the Canadian Code for Volunteer involvement as an integral part of operational practice for all staff and volunteers at UWPR. The code provides a philosophical framework for involving volunteers at the governance, leadership and direct service levels. It outlines the values, principles, and standards for effective volunteer practices.

Last year 2,128 people volunteered a total of 11,523 hours to United Way. Click here to read United Way’s thank you card to our volunteers.

Like most girls in her grade five class, 10-year-old Aaliyah Parks enjoys going to parties and having fun with friends. However, making and keeping friends is often difficult for her and party invitations are rare.

Aaliyah has Autism Spectrum Disorder, a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain. It is also a developmental disability where individuals have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and relating to others. Autism has a broad range or “spectrum” of symptoms that vary in severity and affect everyone differently. Those mildly affected are said to be high-functioning and on the high end of the spectrum. Those more severely affected are said to be on the low end of the spectrum. In Peel there are an estimated 10,000 people on the Autism Spectrum.

No one knows what causes autism, although there are several theories, and there is no cure. Aaliyah is high-functioning and verbal, but must work hard to learn the social skills that come naturally to most of her peers.

“It has been a real struggle and it takes a toll on the entire family” says Aaliyah’s dad, Torence Parks. “That’s why we really appreciate the programs and services offered at Brampton Caledon Community Living.”

Brampton Caledon Community Living (BCCL), an agency funded in part by United Way, supports individuals with developmental disabilities, in partnership with their families and the community, to lead enriched and meaningful lives. BCCL provides respite care for Aaliyah which allows the Parks family a few hours a week where they can focus on each other or other things in their lives. In addition, the agency also provides resources and programs that allow Aaliyah to learn and practice social skills in a safe environment, and enhance her confidence and community participation.

For now the Parks family take things one day at a time but they are relieved to know BCCL is there to help.

“Brampton Caledon Community Living just makes life a little bit easier,” says Torence.

Your donation to United Way’s Community Fund supports agencies such as Brampton Caledon Community Living that help Aaliyah and others who struggle with developmental disabilities, to become participating members of our community.

With a grant from Ontario Trillium Foundation, United Way of Peel Region is undertaking a community mapping process to get a better understanding of the strengths and gaps in services within Peel’s largest ethnic communities. The mapping process will be completed by United Way’s three advisory councils, Chinese, South Asian and the Black Community and will engage residents in interviews and focus groups. The information collected is intended as a valuable planning tool to help indentify where programs and services are most needed.

“Community mapping is a development tool that aims to tap into and expand the breadth of knowledge and experience in our community,” explains United Way CEO Shelley White. “It is also an opportunity for residents to work together to create a common vision for their community and develop programs and services to address needs, fill gaps and make their vision a reality.”

Community mapping builds on United Way’s ongoing efforts to engage and partner with Peel’s diverse population in building a healthy integrated community where everyone thrives.

Carl Oxholm, Steve Hall, Sue Ritchie, Bonnie Waterfield, Galina Szlapetis

Five United Way of Peel Region volunteers recently received Ontario Volunteer Service Awards in recognition of their ongoing commitment to United Way.

“We deeply appreciate the time, energy, and varied skills and expertise that all our volunteers bring to United Way,” said United Way CEO Shelley White. “They are truly the backbone of our organization.”

Three volunteers received 20-year awards:
Steve Hall, Director, Real Property Asset Management, Region of Peel.
In his long list of volunteer roles, Steve has had a major impact on United Way’s vision and leadership in the community. Currently, Steve is a member of our Campaign Cabinet. Other volunteer roles have included membership on the Board of Directors (including Board Chair in 2004), Leadership Giving Division, and the citizen review process.

Sue Ritchie, Manager Community Programs Unit, Human Services Department, Social Services Department, Region of Peel.
As the past chair and a current member of our Community Investment Cabinet as well as our 2010 Campaign Cabinet, Sue has given her time and energy to helping create a thriving community. In addition to her impressive work on our Community Investment Cabinet, Sue’s volunteer roles have included participation on our Board of Directors, Priorities Review Team and chairing the Policy Review Committee.

Bonnie Waterfield, Administrative Assistant, Family Transition Place.
Bonnie is our Community Investment Cabinet Chair and a member of our Board of Directors. She has been instrumental in solidifying United Way as a key community partner and indentifying the vision for building capacity in the sector. Bonnie’s other volunteer roles have included Chair of the Priorities Review working Group and the Review Committee for the Neighbourhood Development Funding Stream, Community Investment Advisory Group, and participation with the citizen review process.

Galina Szlapetis, Senior Manager, Regulatory Affairs, AstraZeneca Canada Inc., received a 15-year award.
Galina joined United Way as a Citizen Review volunteer. Currently she is Chair of the Allocations Committee and a valued member of our Community Investment Cabinet.

Carl Oxholm, Partner PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, received a 10-year award.
Carl is currently the Vice Chair of our Board of Directors, a member of the Major Individual Giving Cabinet, and a member of the Campaign Cabinet. He chaired the campaign in 2006 and has also served as an Account Executive.

Youth in Peel with a passion for making a difference in our community can now apply for funding to help turn their dreams into reality. Through the Youth in Action grants program, offered jointly for the second year by United Way of Peel Region and the Region of Peel, funding of up to $2,000 each is available for youth-led projects. Individuals or groups of young people between the ages of 14 and 24 are encouraged to apply. A total of $20,000 is available.

“We encourage projects that support youth in becoming more involved in their community, empower youth leadership within neighbourhoods, and raise awareness about local issues,” says Nicole Dupuis, United Way’s Volunteer and Youth Engagement Associate. “By leading and implementing their own community projects, youth are empowered as emerging community leaders.”

The deadline for all applications is Monday, June 7th, 2010.

Information sessions will be held in Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon during May. To obtain funding guidelines or to receive an application package, interested youth can contact Nicole Dupuis at 905-602-3622 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . The guidelines are also available at www.unitedwaypeel.org.

Youth in Action grants are an initiative by United Way’s Young Leaders Council, a group of volunteers aged 20 to 35 who are dedicated to creating a legacy of spirited giving and volunteerism within our community.

Click here to read our full news release and learn eligibility criteria.

Collect pledges or make a donation to support United Way at the Mississauga Marathon taking place from Friday, May 14 to Sunday, May 16.

Make it a family outing by registering for the 2K Family Fun Run/Walk or make it a team effort with the Desjardins General Insurance 10K Student Relay or our Corporate/Team Relay Challenge. The multi-event weekend includes 8 different race or walk events which ensures there is something for every age and level of ability.

Support United Way and help create lasting social change in our community. Pledge forms can be downloaded at www.mississaugamarathon.com.

All proceeds designated to United Way through the Mississauga Marathon support our Community Fund which invests in services, programs and initiatives that develop resilient people, grow strong families, and build vibrant neighbourhoods and communities.

For information on how to register for the Mississauga Marathon or to learn about volunteer opportunities available, please visit www.mississaugamarathon.com or reach event coordinators at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone at 905-949-2931.

Mark your calendar for United Way’s Annual General Meeting to be held June 11 at 7:30 a.m. at Lionhead Golf and Country Club in Brampton. The theme of this year’s event is “Building resilient communities.” In addition to a special guest keynote speaker, the meeting will include reports from CEO Shelley White, Board Chair Michelle Cole, and a presentation of financial statements from United Way’s treasurer Norma Trim. New board members will also be elected. More information on this event to come in upcoming issues of Way to Go.

How can you enjoy a relaxing day on the golf course and have a major impact on our community at the same time? Register today for United Way of Peel Region’s 19th annual Leaders on the Links golf tournament at Lionhead Golf and Country club in Brampton on July 5.

“All proceeds from our Leaders on the Links tournament directly support United Way’s Community Fund which invests in programs and services that improve lives and help our community thrive,” said United Way CEO Shelley White. “These programs, services and initiatives work together to provide a circle of care, tackling social issues from many different angles including; prevention, education, counselling and crisis intervention.”

Fees are $500 for a single golfer, $2,000 for a foursome and $2,300 for a combination of a foursome and hole sponsorship. Golf cart, locker, guest gift, on-course lunch, and three-course dinner are included. A silent auction will feature some fabulous items, including two airline tickets to anywhere in North America, donated by RBC Insurance.

Download the registration form at www.unitedwaypeel.org, complete form and fax to 905-602-3651 or mail to 5170 Dixie Rd, Suite 300, Mississauga, ON L4W 1E3.

Title sponsors for this year’s tournament are Deloitte, General Mills Canada Corporation, Purolator, RBC Insurance and Telus. There are still some great sponsorship opportunities available. To learn more, please contact Lesley Allison at 905-602-3629 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

For more information on Leaders on the Links, visit www.unitedwaypeel.org or contact events manager Lin Ferguson at 905-602-3625 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . We are also seeking additional items for the silent auction.

When he was 22, Robert Ditchburn lost touch with reality. He was consumed with thoughts that his coworkers were talking about him behind his back and that his employer was trying to harm him.

Alarmed by Robert's behaviour, his father took him to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and given medication. Robert had joined the ranks of the 1 in 5 people in Canada who will personally experience a mental illness.

Robert returned to work two years later but relapsed when he stopped taking his medication. After a two-month hospitalization, Robert lost his job and feared for his future. He agonized over how he would get his life back on track.
More

May 13:
Day of Caring
May 14-16:
Mississauga Marathon
June 11:
Annual General Meeting
July 5:
Leaders on the Links Golf Tournament

Classes help overwhelmed parents

“All I ever wanted to do was be a mom,” says Karla Oates, 33. “But I never imagined it could be such a nightmare.”

As a Child and Youth Worker, Karla had always dreamed of having her own family. But when her dream became a reality she was overwhelmed by the many challenges and frustrations she experienced. As a mother of three young children, Keegan, 10; Liam, 6; and Hannah, 5, she was often at her wits ends as to how to deal with some of their behaviour.

“There were times where I would just sit on the floor and cry because I didn’t know what else to do,” she says.

It was during one of these meltdowns that she reached out to The Family Education Centre, a United Way funded agency that enriches the quality of family life through parent-to-parent education, support and training. Karla and her husband Rodney, 40, participated in the agency’s Parenting Young Children course.

Having a safe space to share concerns with other parents helped Karla and Rodney understand that they were not alone. In addition, through the classes they learned to focus on the positive and how little changes can have a big impact on family life.

“The Family Education Centre really changed our life,” says Karla. “Now, the kids are happier, and together we are all more connected as a family.”

Still time to support United Way

With only a few weeks remaining in its 2010 fundraising campaign, United Way is reminding Peel residents to pitch in and donate to help reach its $13.75-million goal and preserve the lifeline of programs and services that support our community.

“The last two years have been difficult for many people in our community as the recession has taken its toll,” says 2010 Campaign Chair Barb Leavitt, President of Baxter Corporation.

United Way is the largest non-governmental funder of social services in Peel. People from all walks of life and in many different circumstances receive assistance including newcomers, youth, abused women and children, and families and individuals who are homeless or hungry.

Last year, more than 420,000 people received help through United Way funded programs and services. Without this vital network of support many of these people have nowhere else to turn.

Donations to United Way’s Community Fund support services, programs and initiatives that improve lives, strengthen families and children, and build vibrant neighbourhoods and communities. In addition to funding local services, United Way draws together partners from many different sectors to tackle complex social issues, works to strengthen local social service agencies, and speaks out for social change.

We all have a role to play in creating a great community. United we can give hope and help build better futures. Every donation counts and every dollar makes a difference.

To find out how you can help click here.

All donations received (or postmarked) by December 31 are eligible for a 2010 tax receipt.

We're nuts about the Nutcracker

Here’s your chance to enjoy the arts and help support our community at the same time! Mississauga’s Living Arts Centre is offering a special promotion to benefit United Way.

When you purchase tickets to The Nutcracker (December 4 and 5), enter the promotional code UNITED and 20 per cent of your ticket price will be donated to United Way's Community Fund.

To learn more about this great opportunity, click here, visit www.livingartscentre.ca or call the Living Arts Centre box office at (905) 306-6000.

Take the stress out of the holidays

Change a life this holiday season by making a donation in the name of a loved one through United Way’s online Gifts with Purpose program. Gifts with Purpose provides an opportunity to give a gift that will help change lives, strengthen families and make our community better for everyone.

Your donations to Gifts with Purpose support United Way’s Community Fund which invests in vital social programs and services that hundreds of thousands of residents in our community depend on daily.

To make your donation today and help create a better tomorrow, visit United Way’s website at www.unitedwaypeel.org, make a secure online donation through Canada Helps, and then either download and print a greeting card insert or order a postcard-sized printed insert that will be mailed to you. A minimum donation of $25 is required to receive the printed insert. A variety of cards are available, including those for Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, Kwanzaa, in memoriam, weddings, graduations, birthdays, anniversaries and general occasions.

Computers and knitting needles mix it up

Prior to this summer, Geraldine Batey, 67, had never used the internet or even turned on a computer. But with some savvy guidance from 17-year-old Sagarika Paul, she can now search online for recipes and knitting patterns. Geraldine and Sagarika met through the Intergenerational Project, an initiative made possible through a Youth in Action grant funded by United Way of Peel Region and the Region of Peel.

The Intergenerational Project brought together 13 youth and six seniors to volunteer their skills and learn from one another. Local youth taught seniors how to use computers and seniors shared traditional hobbies such as knitting, chess and crafts. Geraldine saw the program advertised in her local paper and thought it would be a great way to connect with young people.

“I really enjoyed talking with the young people about their lives and learning how to surf the internet,” she says. “And it felt great to share my knitting skills.”

Sagarika was eager to work with seniors from her community.

“It was an awesome experience and it totally made my summer,” she says. “The elders had a lot of knowledge and wisdom to share and I found them very inspiring.”

A $1,200 Youth in Action grant to COSTI Immigrant Services provided the resources to bring the youth and seniors together. Sumanpreet Kaur, 18, a recent graduate of Central Peel Secondary School and a COSTI volunteer, led the project.

“I am very proud to have been part of such a wonderful project,” says Sumanpreet. “Everyone who participated had a great time and expressed a sense of empowerment in learning new skills.”

The Youth in Action grant program was developed by United Way’s Young Leaders Council, a group of volunteers between the ages of 20 and 35 who are committed to creating a legacy of volunteerism and spirited giving within Peel Region. The grants provide funding for youth-led projects that aim to enhance community life.

“By bringing youth and seniors together, the project helped bridge communication and combat stereotypes that each of the groups may have had about each other,” explains COSTI Youth Worker Susanna Tang. “It also helped reduce isolation and strengthen independence among seniors by teaching them how to access information through the internet and contact friends and family through email.”

To learn more about United Way’s Youth in Action grants visit www.unitedwaypeel.org.

UTM honoured for leadership giving

2010 UTM United Way campaign team: Student Chair Melvin Sert, Leadership Chair Dr. Anthony Wensley, UTM Prinicpal Professor Deep Saini, Employee Campaign Chair Paul Handley, United Way of Peel Region President and CEO Shelley White and United Way Resource Development Manager Susan Kulkarni.

University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) recently received a certificate in honour of 10 years of generous leadership giving to United Way.

Carlson Marketing runs an amazing campaign

Carlson Marketing employee bake sale

Carlson Marketing had their best-ever United Way campaign this year. The 2010 campaign ran from September 24 to October 1 and saw a 10 per cent increase in participation and a 20 per cent increase in individual pledges which helped them achieve an amazing grand total of $102,000!

These great results were achieved by one on one meetings with employees to communicate and create awareness about United Way, great incentives, and fundraising events such as online bingo, a silent auction, a raffle and a bake sale. Great work Carlson Marketing!

Celebrate community achievement with United Way

Mark your calendar for United Way of Peel Region’s Community Achievement Celebration (CAC) taking place Friday February 4, 2011 at the International Centre. The CAC celebrates the conclusion of United Way’s 2010 campaign and honours all our volunteers and supporters. More details to come in our next issue of Way To Go.

When he was 22, Robert Ditchburn lost touch with reality. He was consumed with thoughts that his coworkers were talking about him behind his back and that his employer was trying to harm him.

Alarmed by Robert's behaviour, his father took him to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and given medication. Robert had joined the ranks of the 1 in 5 people in Canada who will personally experience a mental illness. Robert returned to work two years later but relapsed when he stopped taking his medication. After a two-month hospitalization,

Robert lost his job and feared for his future. He agonized over how he would get his life back on track. More

December 4, 5
The Nutcracker
at the Living Arts Centre
20% of ticket price donated to UWPR with promo code UNITED.

February 4, 2010
Community Achievement Celebration

Posters:
Download 11x17 or 8.5x11 posters featuring the stories showcased in the 2009 Annual Report. Click here!

United Way of Peel Region will invest more than $9.7-million this year in local services, programs and initiatives that meet immediate social needs and tackle their underlying causes. More than $7.7-million of the $9,770,334 contributed to United Way’s Community Fund in 2009 will be used to support a network of 99 vital programs provided by 53 different social service agencies. This investment represents a slight increase over last year and will assist agencies in addressing the ongoing growth in service demands. The remaining donations will be invested through our Community Fund.

“Even though we are starting to see signs of economic recovery, we know that there can be a long delay between recovery in the market and recovery in the community,” says United Way CEO Shelley White. “Last year more than 420,000 people in our community turned to the services and programs supported by United Way, an overall increase of 6 per cent over 2008. We expect this growth to continue as our community continues to grow. Some agencies have experienced increases of as much as 300 per cent as job loss, stress and anxiety due to the economy continue to impact our community.”

This announcement represents the first allocations under United Way’s new funding strategy, Investing for Resilience. Under its new approach, United Way is focusing on building resilience in individuals, families and neighbourhoods by taking action in four areas: meeting basic physical and emotional needs; developing coping skills and abilities; providing economic opportunities; and supporting meaningful participation in our community.

Click here to read our full news release.

The birth of a first child is one of the happiest occasions in a couple’s lives. But for Jennifer Deathe and her husband Richard it was a time filled with anxiety, fear and emotional pain. During the sixth month of Jennifer’s pregnancy an ultrasound revealed severe physical abnormalities in the couple’s unborn son.

“The bottoms of his feet were facing upward instead of down,” explained Jennifer. “We couldn’t believe this was happening to us. We wanted better for our child and we felt cheated. We were utterly devastated.”

After James was born in February 2008, Jennifer sank into postpartum depression. Due to the rare malformation of baby James’ legs, his left leg would need to be amputated and he would undergo extensive reconstructive surgery.

“I cried every day for about a year,” says Jennifer. “It was disheartening to watch him in pain. I just felt so helpless.”

Jennifer reached out to Caledon Parent-Child Centre, a United Way-funded agency that provides support, resources and education that strengthens families and promotes the optimal development of children.

In addition to medical referrals, the Centre provided Jennifer and her husband with emotional support and counselling to help them cope during their son’s surgery. “They were there to listen to our concerns and help us make difficult decisions. They also enabled us to feel safe in expressing our pain,” says Jennifer.

More than a year after the surgery, Jennifer, her husband and James are doing great. According to his mom, James is an active toddler who climbs, jumps and gets into mischief on a regular basis. Now with the help of a prosthetic leg, he is learning to walk. “He is as happy as any other kid and when he smiles at me…well it just makes my day,” beams Jennifer.

The family has learned to take things one day at a time and not to dwell on the past or what the future may bring. Jennifer and James continue to get support from Caledon Parent-Child Centre and attend the Centre’s Toddler Mother Goose program once a week.

“We feel so blessed to have support from the Caledon Parent-Child Centre. I don’t think James or our family would be what we are without them,” says Jennifer.

Your donation to United Way’s Community Fund supports agencies like Caledon Parent-Child Centre that strengthen families and help children reach their full potential.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and lend a hand at one of many United Way-funded agencies on United Way’s spring Day of Caring on May 13. Volunteering for Day of Caring is an excellent opportunity to learn more about how your donations to United Way help support our community.

Day of Caring projects include serving meals, providing computer training, conducting practice job interviews, accompanying agency clients on outings, teaching arts and crafts, helping at a food bank, painting, and garden clean ups.

During our last Day of Caring 80 volunteers contributed more than 1,000 hours of time to complete 43 different projects at 17 United Way funded agencies. By participating in Day of Caring, you help preserve agency resources for front-line services.

For more information on Day of Caring and the online registration visit www.unitedwaypeel.org or click here.

Collect pledges from friends, family and colleagues to support United Way at the seventh annual Mississauga Marathon taking place May 14th to the 16th. This year runners and walkers will experience a new route with a new finish line. The finish line, which was previously located at Lakefront Promenade Park, will be moved to Port Credit Memorial Park to accommodate the growing number of participants, spectators, and volunteers.

With “A Run for Everyone,” including the Canon Marathon, Half Marathon, Desjardins 10K and 10K Student Relay, “The Hazel” 5K, 2K Family Fun Run/Walk, and Corporate Relay, the Mississauga Marathon is an event for all ages and athletic abilities.

Take steps to help improve your community by participating yourself or pledging a runner or walker. You can also take part by becoming a volunteer. Many volunteer opportunities, including Course Marshalls, are available.

All pledges donated to United Way through the marathon support our Community Fund.

If you wish to participate as a runner or walker, make a pledge or donation, volunteer, or find out more about the marathon please visit www.mississaugamarathon.com or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Get ready to have a swinging good time while supporting your community. Register for United Way’s 19th annual Leaders on the Links Golf Tournament taking place Monday, July 5 at Lionhead Golf and Country Club in Brampton.

Fees are $500 for a single golfer, $2000 for a foursome and $2,300 for a combination of a foursome and hole sponsorship. Golf cart, locker, guest gift, on-course lunch, and three-course dinner are included. As always, there will be some fabulous items to bid on at our popular silent auction.

Funds raised through Leaders on the Links support United Way’s Community Fund which invests in programs, services and initiatives that address key social challenges in our community. These programs, services and initiatives work together to provide a circle of care, tackling issues from many different angles—prevention, education, counselling, crisis intervention. People from all walks of life and in many different circumstances receive support through United Way.

Don’t delay. Register today. Click here to download your application.

For more information on Leaders on the Links visit www.unitedwaypeel.org or contact events manager Lin Ferguson at 905-602-3625 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Title sponsors for this year’s tournament are Purlolator, Delotitte, Telus and RBC Insurance. There are also other sponsorship opportunities available. To join our winning sponsorship team contact Lesley Allison at 905 602-3629 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

In April 2002, 6-year-old Nolan Cattell's father died of a brain tumour. With no siblings or relatives living locally, Nolan and his mother, JoAnn, were on their own.

JoAnn wanted her only child to have a male role model - someone he could learn from and have fun with while maturing. She contacted a United Way-funded agency that placed Nolan in a group program in 2003 where he could interact with other children in his single-parent situation. The ultimate goal of the program was to match the children to adult role models. Over the course of the program, the agency introduced Nolan to a young man named Nat Marchica and the two were officially matched in 2005. More

Annual public campaign kicks off September 17

"United we can" is the theme for United Way of Peel Region's 2010 public campaign which kicks off on September 17, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Hershey Centre SportZone in Mississauga.

A complimentary continental breakfast will be served and everyone is invited. Register today to unite with us in celebration as we announce our 2010 fundraising goal. United Way's 2010 Kick-off is sponsored by TD Bank Financial Group.

To reserve your spot before the September 13 deadline or for more information about United Way's 2010 Kick-off, click here.

Supporting people through hard times

Joining the growing number of people unemployed due to the recession was difficult for Ron Carnwell, 56. So much of his self esteem and pride was tied to working.

"I was good at my job and I worked hard," says the divorced father of 3, and grandfather of 5. "Without a job I felt like I just wasn't contributing to society."

Struggling with feelings of confusion, hurt and betrayal, Ron contacted Family Services Peel (FSP), a United Way funded agency. Ron participated in the agency's Working to your full potential program, which provides counselling and workshops that assist people in finding employment.

"My counselor was great," says Ron. "He helped me accept that I lost my job and that what happened to me could happen to anyone. He also provided resources and information on job training and job search programs. He really energized my spirit and kept me motivated and hopeful."

Eventually with support from FSP, Ron found another job. He is grateful that when he needed help, it was there.

"These are really hard times," says Ron. "There are so many people out of work who don't know what to do. It's good to know that there are places where people can turn for help to get through these tough times."

United Way and Region of Peel empower youth

"Thanks to our Youth In Action grant, youth in our neighbourhood will have an opportunity to learn a skill and have fun at the same time," says Sherrise Gordon, 15. Sherrise is team leader of Out of the Fire and into the Kitchen, one of 11 youth-led projects recently awarded a Youth in Action grant, jointly funded by United Way of Peel Region and the Region of Peel. The grants, totalling $20,000, will fund projects including sports camps, workshops and mentoring sessions that aim to build confidence in youth aged 14 to 24, and help develop future leaders while improving neighbourhood life.

Youth in Action grants were developed in 2009 by United Way's Young Leaders Council, a group of volunteers aged 20 to 35 who are committed to creating a legacy of volunteerism and spirited giving within Peel Region. The grants will be distributed through several local registered charities that will provide financial oversight to the youth developing and implementing projects.

"Youth in Peel Region are restless for change," said Vanessa Mui, Co-Chair of the Youth in Action Review Panel and Executive Member of United Way's Young Leaders Council. "They are eager to tackle issues within their communities and act as agents of social change. We are excited to facilitate youth leadership and activism and empower youth to maximize their potential."

Out of the Fire and into the Kitchen (Mississauga) will receive a grant of $2,000, distributed through YMCA Peel Youth Village. The program aims to deter youth violence while teaching youth the essential life skill of cooking. During weekly sessions youth will prepare and share various dishes, and discuss the justice system with guest speakers from the community.

In addition to Out of the Fire and into the Kitchen, the following projects will receive Youth in Action grants: Journey to OUR Mother, Peel Environment Youth Alliance (PEYA) - EcoBuzz Conference, United Camp, Get out! Get Active!, Girls in Action, Newcomer Youth Media Project, Project One: Operation Inspire 2, RHYTHM, The NUSAYbah Project, Youth Productions.

For details on the Youth In Action grant recipients, read our full news release.

Apply for Neighbourhood Development grants

United Way of Peel Region and the Region of Peel are jointly offering up to $30,000 in grants to charities and community groups interested in improving the quality of community life in Peel. The Neighbourhood Development grants, totalling $275,000, aim to give Peel residents an opportunity to partner with local agencies and businesses to create resident-led programs and services that enhance the quality of neighbourhood life.

"The Neighbourhood Development grants were launched in 2008 as part of United Way's poverty reduction strategy," explains United Way CEO Shelley White. "The grants give residents an opportunity to identify priority issues and needs in their neighbourhood, and be active participants in creating programs and services to address them."

Previous grant recipients included a park beautification project that brought together volunteers, youth and seniors to revitalize a community park; a youth council that provided leadership skills for local youth; a seniors' wellness program that reduced isolation and increased independence; and a neighbourhood festival that brought residents together and promoted community pride.

Interested applicants are invited to attend one of the following information sessions:

• Wednesday, September 1, 2010 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at St. Leonard's Place, 1105 Queen Street East, Brampton;

• Thursday, September 9, 2010 from 6 to 8 p.m. at United Way of Peel Region, 5170 Dixie Road, Suite 300, Mississauga;

• Thursday, September 16, 2010 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Caledon Parent-Child Centre, 150 Queen Street South, Bolton.

To RSVP for one of the information sessions or for more information about this funding opportunity and how to receive an application, please contact Areeta Bridgemohan, Manager, Community Investment at 905-602-3650 ext. 2328 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Thank you Marathon supporters!

Thanks to everyone who ran, walked, pledged or volunteered in support of United Way at the 2010 Mississauga Marathon in May. Donors contributed $3,300 for United Way through the Marathon. These contributions go to the Community Fund, which supports local, vital programs and services that develop resilient people, grow strong families, and build vibrant neighbourhoods.

It's not too soon to start planning for the 2011 Marathon, which takes place May 14 and 15. United Way is proud to be a charity partner.

Join Region of Peel's run for United Way

Sign up now for the Region of Peel's first-ever Run, Walk and Roll 5K for the United Way taking place October 30. The family-oriented, wheelchair accessible event is open to everyone. The inaugural run, presented by Walk+Roll Peel begins and ends at 10 Peel Centre Dr. in Brampton and travels along Queen Street. There are three course options for participants to choose from: a 5K chip timed event; a 5K non chip timed event and a 1K kid's course. Individuals in wheelchairs and parents with children in strollers or wagons are encouraged to participate. Service animals are welcome, however, pets, bikes, skateboards and rollerblades are not allowed on the course.

All proceeds benefit United Way, which helps develop resilient individuals, grow strong families and build vibrant neighbourhoods, making our community a better place for everyone.

For pledge forms, online registration and full event details, visit www.walkandrollpeel.ca.

Fall into action for our community

Exchange an ordinary work day for an adventure by participating in United Way's fall Day of Caring on October 21. During Day of Caring you will have an opportunity to personally contribute to the wellness of our community by volunteering at one of several local United Way funded agencies. Employers and employees alike often find coming together for a Day of Caring project to be a fun and rewarding team-building experience. Whether you register as an individual or a group, choose from a variety of projects that best suit your skills and interests, and spend a day making a real difference. Volunteer opportunities include painting, gardening, yard cleanups, computer training and more.

In addition to supporting our community and learning about local agencies and programs, your participation in Day of Caring helps save agency resources by undertaking projects that otherwise may not have been completed. During United Way's last Day of Caring volunteers gave more than 1,000 hours of their time to complete 25 different projects at 18 local United Way agencies.

Fall Day of Caring is generously sponsored by TD Canada Trust employees serving Mississauga. Registration opens September 20.

Thank you!

The Mississauga Board of Chinese Professional & Business (CPB) raised $3,500 for United Way at their 2010 Spring Banquet.

From left, Josephine Bau, the Board of Director of CPB; Audrey Chiang, Chair of the CPB; Sharon Douglas, Assistant Director, Community Investment; Shelley White, CEO; Jenny Qin, Community Outreach Coordinator; Anita Stellinga, Director, Community Investment of UWPR.

Thirty-one-year-old Vanessa Ramnarine, her husband Tony, and their two daughters Eva, 6, and Amy, 4, have always been a tight-knit family with strong family values. When a flyer from her daughter's school asked for participants for its eight-week Family and Schools Together (F&ST) program, Vanessa was all for it. That's because it offered the chance for parents, children, social service professionals, community volunteers and school staff to meet at school for dinner and quality family time.

"I liked the concept of the program and I thought it would be a really nice thing to do with the kids," she says. "In these tough times, it allowed us a family night out that we otherwise couldn't afford."

Funded by United Way and provided through Family Services of Peel, F&ST strengthens family unity and supports families in helping their children do well at school, at home and in the community. The goal is to improve health, social and academic outcomes for children and reduce the risk of delinquency, substance abuse and school failure in adolescent years. It also provides an opportunity for parents to become more involved in their child's school.

The Ramnarines are one of approximately 120 families that have graduated from F&ST. United Way supports programs like F&ST that empower children and youth to reach their full potential.

"You can see the effect the program has on your child," says Vanessa, who since attending F&ST has joined the parent council at her daughter's school. "At one time Eva was hesitant to participate in school activities, but since F&ST she loves school and has become very outgoing. She is developing great leadership skills."

September 17:
2010 Kick-off

October 21:
Day of Caring

This year, family will have Christmas tree

“My first Christmas in Canada was extremely bleak,” recalls Sandra Bocarro. “There were no gifts and no tree.”

After researching Canada, Sandra felt it would be an ideal place to live and raise a family. She arrived in July 2004 but despite being a highly educated professional, she had difficulty finding employment. By Christmas the family had depleted their savings and were struggling to make ends meet.

“How could I think about Christmas?” says Sandra. “I barely had furniture and had to focus on affording the essentials.”

Then a United Way-funded agency matched Sandra with a professional mentor who helped her network and apply her transferable skills to find employment. Now at 38, Sandra is employed and living in Mississauga with her husband and two children. For the first time since arriving in Canada, she and her family will have a Christmas tree. They are excited about the holidays.

“Without the help of my mentor, I’d still be groping around in the dark,” she says. “The whole experience has really taught me the power of being resilient.”

General Mills stuffs the bus and raises record amount

A minivan nicknamed the “cereal bus” was bursting at the bolts, thanks to a record-breaking donation by General Mills Canada and its employees. On November 29 hundreds of General Mills employees stuffed the bus with food, toys and clothes they had collected to donate to various United Way funded agencies just in time for the holidays. The “Stuff the Bus” event was part of the General Mills workplace United Way campaign which raised a record $388,318. This marks the 12th year that the company and its employees have rallied together to support United Way of Peel Region.

Intuit runs successful first campaign

Intuit’s United Way Employee Campaign team members left to right: Christine Chapman, Denny Poulin, and Daljit Kaur.

Inuit and its employees raised $5,660 for United Way’s Community Fund during their first-ever employee campaign. The effort was led by Intuit’s “We care and give back” co-chair Denny Poulin, along with a dedicated team of volunteers. Fundraising activities included a campaign launch with guest speakers, a food drive competition, samosa sale, book sale and games. Congratulations Intuit on a great first effort!

Sheridan College students create Youth Spirit Awards

For the second year, Sheridan College students have created one-of-a-kind awards to present to the winners of United Way of Peel Region’s Youth Spirit Awards. The Youth Spirit Award program recognizes children and youth from across Peel Region for their creativity and enthusiasm in raising funds and awareness for United Way.

The Youth Spirit Awards program is an initiative of United Way’s Young Leaders Council, a group of young adults focused on creating a legacy of giving and volunteerism that will strengthen our community.

“Youth play a vital role in the building of a strong and vibrant community,” says Nicole Dupuis United Way’s Stakeholder Engagement Manager. “The unique awards handcrafted by Sheridan students symbolize the innovative efforts that our winners have exhibited this year.”

Winners will be announced on February 4 at United Way of Peel Region’s Community Achievement Celebration.

Celebrate community achievement with United Way

Join us in honouring our volunteers and supporters as we celebrate the conclusion of United Way’s 2010 campaign. Order tickets for United Way of Peel Region’s Community Achievement Celebration (CAC) taking place Friday February 4, 2011, at the Pearson International Centre. The theme for this year’s event is the power of “the dance.”

The evening begins with a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Halal dinner, entertainment and awards presentation at 6:30 p.m. Early bird tickets ordered by January 7 are $60 each or $600 for a table of 10. Tickets ordered after January 7 are $65 each or $650 for a table of 10. To download your order form or for more information about the CAC click here or contact Lin Ferguson, Manager, Events at 905-602-3625 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Supporting community through Well of Change

Share a passion or talent, or donate an item to support United Way through Well of Change. This unique and innovative virtual marketplace makes donating fun and convenient. Through Well of Change, individuals and organizations can donate or buy a variety of services and items online, with all proceeds benefiting charity.

Well of Change is a non-profit organization supported by a team of dedicated volunteers whose goal is to make the act of giving easier for everyone. You can experience the rewards of volunteerism, promote a business, find a great deal and contribute to a worthy cause all at the same time.

To support United Way of Peel Region through Well of Change, please visit http://wellofchange.org/charities/32. You can post or purchase a variety of items and services including photography lessons, dog walking, tax preparation, furniture and more.

All proceeds donated to United Way of Peel Region through Well of Change support United Way’s Community Fund which invests in vital programs and services that hundreds of thousands of Peel residents depend on every day.

Calling for Spirit Award nominations

United Way is looking for innovative and creative workplace campaigns that have inspired employee participation while promoting team spirit and raising funds for our community. If you know of such a campaign, nominate it for a United Way Spirit Award!

All nominations must be forwarded to Susan Kulkarni at United Way of Peel Region by 5 p.m. on January 6, 2011. Winners will be announced at United Way’s annual Community Achievement Celebration, taking place February 4, 2011 at the International Centre in Mississauga.

Click here to download a nomination form. For more information about the 2010 Spirit Awards please visit www.unitedwaypeel.org, call Susan Kulkarni at (905) 602-3642, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact your United Way representative.

Raptors support United Way

Here’s your chance to save up to 30 per cent off Toronto Raptors tickets and support United Way. For a limited time, when you purchase tickets to select Raptor’s games listed below, a portion of the sales will go directly to United Way’s Community Fund which invests in programs and services that create hope and build better futures.

To book your tickets today, visit www.raptors.com/ticketpass and enter the special offer code: WAYTOGO. For more information on this great opportunity and more, contact Brennan Kerr at 416 815-6076 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Select games include:

• Sacramento Kings – Sunday, January 9 @ 1:00 p.m.
• Atlanta Hawks – Wednesday, January 12 @ 7:00 p.m.
• Detroit Pistons – Fridary, January 14 @ 7:00 p.m.
• Memphis Grizzlies – Monday, January 24 @ 7:00 p.m.
• Philadelphia 76ers – Wednesday, January 26 @ 7:00 p.m.
• Milwaukee Bucks – Friday January 28 @ 7:00 p.m.
• Minnesota Timberwolves – Friday, February 4 @ 7:00 p.m.
• San Antonio Spurs – Wednesday, February 9 @ 7:00 p.m.

In April 2002, 6-year-old Nolan Cattell's father died of a brain tumour. With no siblings or relatives living locally, Nolan and his mother, JoAnn, were on their own.

JoAnn wanted her only child to have a male role model - someone he could learn from and have fun with while maturing. She contacted a United Way-funded agency that placed Nolan in a group program in 2003 where he could interact with other children in his single-parent situation. The ultimate goal of the program was to match the children to adult role models. Over the course of the program, the agency introduced Nolan to a young man named Nat Marchica and the two were officially matched in 2005.

Nolan and Nat shared something in common. Nat's father had passed away 10 years ago. Like Nolan, Nat had no relatives living nearby.

"My dad passed away when I was 19," said Nat when asked why he got involved in the United Way-funded program. "I wanted to help someone in similar circumstances."

Today, Nolan, age 13, and Nat have a strong bond. They engage in many activities together, including soccer, going to the movies, attending sports events, and playing with Nat's dog. The two try to get together on a weekly basis, usually on weekends.

When asked what is the most important thing Nat has done for him, Nolan replied with a smile on his face. "He's helped me with social issues - like girls."

How has Nat's relationship with Nolan affected his life? "It's changed it for the better. It makes a hard day better. It makes me feel like a kid again," said Nat.

January 19 - Step Up and Learn: Team Building workshop for individuals aged 20-35

February 4, 2010
Community Achievement Celebration

February 16 - Step Up and Learn: Professional Image workshop for individuals aged 20-35

March 15 - Step Up and Learn: Networking Image workshop for individuals aged 20-35