MISSISSAUGA (December 1, 2008) — Looking for a way to make a difference in our community this holiday season? United Way of Peel Region’s new online Gifts with Purpose program provides the opportunity to make a donation that will change lives, strengthen neighbourhoods, and make our community great for everyone.

“Donations made through the Gifts with Purpose are used by United Way for local programs, services and initiatives that help people right across our community,” explains United Way CEO Shelley White. “Whether it’s reducing poverty, helping families cope with stress, reaching out to isolated seniors, providing a safe haven for abused women and their children, or giving hope to a discouraged newcomer, Gifts with Purpose make a real difference.”

To make a donation through the Gifts with Purpose program, 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, Kwanzaa, and general occasions.

Gift givers can also call United Way directly at 905-602-3650 to make a donation via credit card.

All funds raised through the Gifts with Purpose program bring United Way closer to achieving its 2008 campaign goal of $13.5-million. With one month left to go in the campaign, United Way has raised $5.8-million, or 43% of its goal. Please help us reach our goal!

United Way of Peel Region was established in 1967 and serves the cities of Mississauga and Brampton and the town of Caledon. Our mission is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA (November 19, 2008) — At the mid-point of its fall fundraising campaign, United Way of Peel Region is calling on residents of Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon to dig deeper to help reach its $13.5-million campaign goal. To date United Way has raised $4.8-million and is in danger of falling short by almost $500,000.

“This has been a very challenging campaign, as many people are concerned about the personal and business impact of the current economy,” explains 2008 Campaign Chair Sean Smith, President, Canada of IKON Office Solutions. “But the reality is, when times are tough, our community needs United Way even more. We’re asking everyone to be as generous as possible.”

This year, United Way is funding 118 different programs, services and initiatives in Peel that change individual lives, strengthen neighbourhoods and make our community better for everyone. People from all walks of life and in many different circumstances are helped through United Way. Examples of programs supported by United Way include:

• After-school, homework and breakfast clubs for children
• Distribution of emergency food to impoverished individuals and families
• Telephone support for people in distress or crisis
• Emergency shelter for abused women and their children
• Counseling for families in conflict • Mentoring for skilled newcomers
• Meals and social activities for isolated and frail seniors
• Assistance for people who have lost their sight or hearing
• Safe shelter for youth fleeing abuse and family conflict

“Hard times put more pressure on the social service agencies we fund as more people turn to them for support,” says Joseph Palumbo, Chair of United Way’s board of Directors. “Agencies rely on United Way to fund this network of care for our community. We all need to come together right now to help ensure that these services continue to be available.”

How you can help:

Individuals and organizations interested in supporting United Way can do so through a variety of methods:

• Donate online at www.unitedwaypeel.org
• Call 905-602-3650 to make a donation by credit card.
• Mail a cheque, payable to United Way of Peel Region, to 5170 Dixie Road, Suite 300, Mississauga ON L4W 1E3.
• Make a gift of stock or marketable securities. Contact Chris Meyer at 905-602-3634 for more information.
• Make a corporate gift or host a United Way campaign in your workplace. It doesn’t take long to organize and we provide all the resources you need. Contact Christine Lynch at 905-602-3648 to sign up.

All donations received (or postmarked) by December 31 are eligible for a 2008 tax receipt.

“This is a time of hardship for many of our friends and neighbours,” adds United Way CEO Shelley White. “People who are just getting by do not have extra resources to see them through difficult economic times. Never has there been a more important time to dig deeper for our community.”

About United Way of Peel Region

United Way of Peel Region was established in 1967 and serves the cities of Mississauga and Brampton and the town of Caledon. Our mission is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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Mississauga (November 8, 2008) — Today an energized crowd of more than 125 guests and volunteers attended the launch of something new, fresh, and stylish — United Way of Peel Region’s Young Leaders Council. Leadership in Style, the Council’s inaugural event, featured a reception and fashion show promoting nine young fashion designers as well as models from diverse backgrounds. Guests also had the opportunity to learn about United Way and how, through the Young Leaders Council, they can help create a community that is great for people of all ages.

“We are thrilled that so many young adults have expressed their interest in getting involved,” said Young Leaders Council Chair Matthew Curran. “The Young Leaders Council is a new and exciting way to get connected, involved, give back, and make a difference in our community.”

The Young Leaders Council was established by United Way earlier this year. Young adults aged 20 to 35 years who are interested in creating a legacy of spirited giving and volunteerism in our community are invited to join. There are several ways to get involved, including joining the Executive Council, a community, helping with events, becoming a general member, or making a donation to United Way.

“United Way of Peel Region recognizes the tremendous contribution that young adults make in our community,” United Way CEO Shelley White told guests at the event. “They bring energy, enthusiasm, and commitment. United Way is excited about partnering with young adults to address key social issues in our community.”

The launch event, which took place at TEN Restaurant and Wine Bar in Port Credit, attracted young leaders from all sectors of the community and put the spotlight on the Young Leaders Council values of volunteerism, spirited giving and civic engagement. Young adults interested in becoming involved can contact Nicole Dupuis, Volunteer and Youth Engagement Associate, at 905-602-3622 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA (October 23, 2008) — How do you fit four months of work into a single day? Ask the 180 volunteers who participated today in United Way of Peel Region’s fall Day of Caring! Together, they contributed more than 1,000 hours of time to complete 43 different projects at 17 United Way-funded agencies around the region.

In the largest turnout ever for United Way’s Day of Caring, volunteers from 15 organizations in Peel rolled up their sleeves to serve meals, provide computer training, conduct practice job interviews, accompany agency clients on outings, teach arts and crafts, help at a food bank, paint, and clean up gardens. It would take one person working an eight-hour day for four months without a break to complete the same tasks. The caring power of today’s volunteer work is valued at more than $18,000.

“Everyone wins with Day of Caring,” explains Shelley White, United Way CEO. “Community agencies have work done that they otherwise would not be able to afford; volunteers receive tremendous satisfaction from completing often desperately needed tasks; and United Way has the opportunity to let more people know about the impact on our community of the programs and services we fund.”

The following organizations sent volunteers: Canada Post, Chrysler, E.I. DuPont, General Mills, IKON Office Solutions, Ingram Micro, Mettler-Toledo, Microsoft Canada, Nacan Products, Peel Regional Police, Region of Peel, Ricoh, Spherion, The Pepsi Bottling Group (Canada) Ltd. and UPS SCS.

The participating agencies were: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peel, Brampton Caledon Community Living, Brampton Neighbourhood Resource Centre, Caledon Community Services, Caledon Meals on Wheels, Canadian Mental Health Association/Peel Branch, Catholic Family Services of Peel-Dufferin, Community Living Mississauga, Elizabeth Fry Society of Peel-Halton, Family Education Centre, Foodpath, Malton Neighbourhood Services, Our Place (Peel), Peel Senior Link, Skills for Employment, Life and Family (SELF), VON Peel and YMCA.

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Click here to view photos from the event.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — Employment, childcare and parenting, language barriers, and supports for seniors top the list of needs and challenges facing Peel’s Chinese community, according to a research report released this month by the Chinese Advisory Council (CAC) of United Way of Peel Region.

The Needs and Challenges of the Chinese Community in Peel Region outlines the results of a literature review conducted by the CAC. The findings were presented and discussed at a community forum attended by the Honourable Michael Chan, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, and more than 100 participants from the Chinese community, government and the social services sector.

“Peel is one of the most diverse communities in the country,” says Shelley White, CEO of United Way of Peel Region. “Understanding the different needs within such a diverse community is crucial in developing appropriate programs and services.”

The Chinese community in Peel numbers more than 40,000, making it the third largest visible minority in the Region. East Asians made up 7.8 per cent of the118,220 immigrants that arrived in Peel between 2001 and 2006. In Canada the Chinese population totals more than one million, making it the largest non-European ethnic group in the country.

“We want to help newcomers by empowering them to help themselves,” explains CAC Co-chair, Josephine Bau . “Language barriers, deep rooted Confucianism, and lack of awareness of social supports and services are all challenges that make it difficult for individuals in the Chinese community to ask for help.”

The report outlines six recommendations:

• Provide pre-settlement and post-settlement services for newcomers
• Improve access to information through one-stop centres for services and referrals, and promoting 211
• More networking opportunities and education about volunteer and mentorship programs
• Offer culture and language specific programs and services
• Implement new outreach programs to assist with integrated bridging and provide emotional support
• Lobbying for more government funding for new programs and to reduce waiting periods for affordable housing and other services.

“Within the Chinese community there are various cultural backgrounds, faiths, languages, and socio-economic levels. These factors must be considered by service providers in order to adequately meet the needs in this community,” said CAC Co-chair, Nelly Gong. “We hope our findings will be helpful in future service, human and capital planning.”

Funding for the report was provided by Heritage Canada. The complete report can be downloaded at the Reports and Publications page of www.unitedwaypeel.org.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — Charities in Peel are invited to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to help them assess the feasibility of starting a social purpose enterprise. United Way of Peel Region and the Region of Peel are providing a total of $50,000 to assist charities in identifying potential business activities, conducting market research, assessing organizational readiness and undertaking business planning activities.

“Social purpose enterprises are businesses that are operated by charitable organizations to generate revenue while addressing social issues,” explains United Way CEO Shelley White. “They provide at-risk individuals with jobs or job-related training and can lead to financial stability, improved life skills and stronger community connections.”

United Way launched its Social Purpose Enterprise initiative last year as part of its poverty reduction strategy. A total of $100,000 was provided to three existing social purpose enterprises.

“What we learned last year was that there are many charities in Peel that are interested in social purpose enterprise but lack the resources to even explore the possibility,” says Anita Stellinga, United Way’s Director of Community Investment. “This new funding opportunity in partnership with the Region of Peel enables us to provide technical grants to help charities address this problem.”

The application deadline for the Social Purpose Enterprise Technical Grants is November 5, 2008 at 4 p.m.

Applicants must be registered charities. Organizations are encouraged to attend an information session on October 15, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at United Way, 5170 Dixie Road, Suite 300, Mississauga. To RSVP for the information session please contact Manmeet Singh Sandhu at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 905 602-3619.

For more information about this funding opportunity or to receive an application, please contact Lorna Dixon, Senior Manager, United Way Community Investment, at 905-602-3621 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — United Way invites charities in Peel to apply for grants of up to $25,000 to support resident-led leadership activities that will strengthen neighbourhoods. A total of $150,000 in funding is available to create programs and activities that identify and address priority needs while promoting inclusion among all residents. Collaborations and partnerships among residents, business associations, registered charities, and non-profit and grass-roots organizations are strongly encouraged to apply.

“United Way’s Neighbourhood Development funding is intended to strengthen neighbourhoods in ways that will create opportunities for all residents, including youth, children and families, newcomers and immigrants, seniors, and people with disabilities,” said United Way CEO Shelley White. “Stronger neighbourhoods help make Peel a thriving community for everyone.”

Peel has the highest proportion of children, youth, seniors and single parents in the province and more than 167,000 people living in poverty. There are few recreational opportunities, and inadequate transportation to access social services and programs. Last year United Way distributed a total of $100,000 in Neighbourhood Development Grants to help residents strengthen several neighbourhoods in Peel.

“The Neighbourhood Development Grants Program aims to engage businesses, community agencies, residents and stakeholders in creating quality resident-led initiatives and programs that will empower residents and uplift neighbourhoods,” said Anita Stellinga, United Way’s Director of Community Investment. “Research shows that a neighbourhood that works together is safer, healthier and more productive.”

The application deadline for Neighbourhood Development Grants is November 7, 2008 at 4 p.m.

The applying group must be a registered charity that is actively engaged in the project. Organizations are encouraged to attend an information session on October 10, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at United Way of Peel Region, 5170 Dixie Road, Suite 300, Mississauga.

To RSVP for the information session, receive an application package or get further information, contact Aamna Ashraf, Community Investment Manager, at 905-602-3650 ext. 2328 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — Support United Way of Peel Region while joining the fun and excitement of watching the Toronto Argonauts battle the Grey Cup Champion Saskatchewan Roughriders at the Rogers Centre on Thursday, October 30 at 7:30 p.m.

The Argos are offering discounted tickets to the game and donating $5 from every ticket sold through this offer to United Way of Peel Region.

Come out and cheer for the Argos and support a worthy cause. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The deadline for orders is Tuesday, October 28. Order yours tickets today!

To order tickets, download an order form at www.unitedwaypeel.org and click on “News and Events”. Complete the form and then fax it directly to the Argos at 416-341-2714. Alternately, you can contact Allan McNinch at the Argos at 416-341-2717 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — At a pancake breakfast at Peel Youth Village this morning, United Way of Peel Region Campaign Chair Sean Smith announced a 2008 fundraising goal of $13.5-million.

“Our 2008 campaign theme is “Come together. Right now”, declared Smith, President, Canada, of IKON Office Solutions. “By helping caring people come together, United Way is creating lasting change that improves lives, strengthens neighbourhoods and makes our community great for everyone.”

The campaign goal reflects a change in fundraising focus for United Way. This year, United Way is excluding from its fundraising target those donations made by individuals from outside of the region who are employees of national companies with head offices in Peel. In 2007 this amount totaled $2.1-million.

“These national donations are distributed to the United Ways serving the communities in which they were raised,” said Joseph Palumbo, United Way Board Chair. “As these funds are not available to invest in Peel programs, services and initiatives, United Way has decided to exclude them. In this way, our community gets a clearer sense of what we have available.”

Contributions to United Way of Peel Region that are not designated by donors to other registered charities go to the Community Fund. These donations are strategically invested to address the following community priorities:

• Strengthening families and children
• Alleviating hunger, homelessness and poverty
• Helping abused women and children
• Supporting seniors to live healthy and independent lives
• Helping newcomers and immigrants settle and integrate

“United Way’s Community Fund supports a network of 118 programs delivered through 58 social service agencies,” said United Way Board Chair Joseph Palumbo. “In addition, the Community Fund helps United Way provide training and skills development for agency staff and volunteers, fosters community partnerships to tackle complex social issues, and helps us provide a strong voice for social change.”

“I think it’s fair to say that no other organization brings together people like United Way does,” said United Way CEO Shelley White. “From every corner of our community, people unite to focus on important social issues such as reducing poverty, creating opportunities for newcomers, stopping domestic violence, providing support for seniors, and strengthening families. We all want to make our community a better place to live for everyone.”

United Way’s kick-off event was sponsored by IKON Office Solutions. Breakfast was provided by Denny’s, Longos and Pepsi QTG, with musical entertainment by Afropan Steelband.

Organizations and businesses interested in supporting United Way can contact Ted Fauteux, Director of Resource Development at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 905-602-3632 or For further information about United Way of Peel Region, visit the website at www.unitedwaypeel.org.

United Way of Peel Region was established in 1967 and serves Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon. The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — At its campaign kick-off today, United Way of Peel Region announced its 2008 Pacesetters, those companies and organizations who pledge their commitment to United Way before the public launch of the campaign. The kick-off, sponsored by IKON Office Solutions, took place at Peel Youth Village in Mississauga.

“This year we are pleased to announce our 42 Pacesetters and thank them for their commitment,” said 2008 Campaign Chair Sean Smith, President, Canada, IKON Office Solutions. “These companies and organizations are demonstrating great leadership in giving back to our community.”

With the help of its Pacesetters, United Way has already raised close to $560,000 in donations towards its $13.5-million campaign goal.

The following companies and organizations have set the pace for the 2008 campaign.
An asterisk (*) indicates those that have locations or services across the entire region:

Mississauga-based organizations and companies:

• AstraZeneca Canada Inc.
• Bantrel Co.
• Baxter Corporation
• Canada Dry Mott’s
• Canada Post
• Citi
• City of Mississauga
• Communications Repair Logistics
• Desjardins General Insurance Group
• Deloitte & Touche LLP
• DuPont Canada
• Edward Jones*
• EllisDon Corporation
• ESI Canada
• Frito Lay Canada
• GE Canada
• General Mills Canada Corporation
• GlaxoSmithKline Inc.
• Hewlett-Packard (Canada) Co.
• Hill’s Pet Nutrition Canada Inc.
• IKON Office Solutions
• Labour Community Services of Peel Inc.
• Morguard Investments Limited
• Nestlé Purina PetCare
• Peel District School Board*
• Pepsi-QTG Canada
• PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
• Richardson Partners Financial Limited
• Ricoh Canada Inc.
• Royal & Sun Alliance Canada
• Samuel, Son & Co. Limited
• Skills for Employment, Life and Family
• Symcor Inc.
• Tech Data Canada Corporation
• The Pepsi Bottling Group (Canada), Co.
• Wells Fargo Financial

Brampton-based organizations and companies:

• Canadian Mental Health Association, Peel Branch*
• Chrysler Canada
• City of Brampton
• Regional Municipality of Peel/Peel Regional Police Services*
• Rogers Communications
• Trow Associates

“On behalf of United Way, I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our 2008 Pacesetters for their enthusiasm and generous commitment,” said Shelley White, United Way of Peel Region CEO. “Together we will continue to create lasting social change that improves the quality of life for all of us who live and work in Peel.”

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — A study released today by United Way of Peel Region reveals tremendous diversity within Peel’s black population. The Black Community in Peel Region: An Exploratory Study shows that Peel’s black community is made up of several separate groups including: Canadian-born blacks; Caribbean; African; and those born in other countries. Each group has its own culture, language, dialect and faiths.

“This finding is key to understanding the community and providing appropriate social services and programs that address the variety of challenges and issues experienced by the different groups within this community,” said Shelley White, CEO of United Way of Peel Region. “Peel is one of the most diverse communities in Canada. Understanding the challenges and needs of such a diverse community is critical to creating a community where we all thrive.”

The objective of The Black Community in Peel Region: An Exploratory Study was to identify socio-economic characteristics, the challenges and issues affecting the black community, and the gaps in human care services. As part of the research, members of the black community participated in focus groups and interviews. The data generated can be used to strengthen existing services, develop new culturally sensitive programs tailored to address specific challenges and issues, and enhance the lives of individuals and various different groups in this community.

The study is part of a larger diversity outreach initiative by United Way to build and promote inclusion. The cultural landscape of Peel has changed dramatically over the years. Social programs and services initially set up to serve the mostly white European population of Peel decades ago, now need to be adjusted to meet the needs of the current multiracial, multiethnic and multifaith population.

Based on 2001 census data, the study reported there were more than 70,000 blacks living in Peel; 42.5 per cent being Canadian born. The study reports 66.3 per cent of blacks in Peel own their own homes and 11 per cent have a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. Single parent families make up 9.9 per cent of Peel’s black community, and blacks in Peel have a higher incidence of low income at 18.2 per cent compared to 11.6 per cent in Peel’s total population. According to the 2006 census, the black population in Peel has grown by 36.5 per cent to 95,570.

Major issues outlined in the study include racism and discrimination based on immigration status, gender and poverty. Other issues listed include lack of affordable housing and limited recreational facilities for youth. Participants in the study also reported they feel there is limited understanding of the ethno-cultural and economic diversity of the black community by mainstream service agencies.

Recommendations from the study include capacity building for mainstream human service organizations, such as anti-oppression training and recruiting staff and volunteers from the black community. Providing settlement services specifically tailored to assist black newcomers and leadership programs for black youth were also among the recommendations.

Funding for the study was provided by Heritage Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services.

The complete study can be accessed by clicking The Black Community in Peel Region: An Exploratory Study or by visiting the Reports and Publications page at www.unitedwaypeel.org.

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — More than 200 people attended United Way of Peel Region’s annual meeting today and heard the Honourable Deb Matthews, Ontario Minister of Children and Youth Services and Chair of the Cabinet Committee on Poverty Reduction, speak about her work in the fight against poverty.

At the meeting, four new Board members were elected for a three-year term. At a Board of Directors meeting immediately following the annual meeting, Joseph Palumbo was elected Board Chair. Other officers elected were Michelle Cole, Senior Vice President with GE Capital Solutions, as Vice Chair; Bobby Sachdeva, Partner, Pallett Valo LLP, as Secretary; and Norma Trim, Director, Corporate Finance and Deputy Treasurer with the Region of Peel, as Treasurer.

Palumbo is the Executive Director of the Career Development Centre at the Schulich School of Business, York University. He has more than 26 years of diverse business experience. He is also an Executive Coach for several organizations and CEO of the Americas division for one of India’s largest, independent and most prestigious Executive Search firms. In addition, he is an active member of a number of organizations including the International Coaching Federation, Human Resources Professional Ontario, Society for Human Resources Management, MBA Career Services Council, The Board of Trade of Metropolitan Toronto, Canadian Professional Sales Association, Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers and The Certified Management Accountants of Ontario. He holds a marketing degree from York University, a CMA designation and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business. He was elected to the United Way of Peel Region Board in 2006. Palumbo lives in Mississauga.

“I feel honored and privileged to be elected Chair of United Way of Peel Region’s Board of Directors,” says Joseph Palumbo. “I’m looking forward to working with my fellow directors, other volunteers, and the staff team as we continue to inspire and champion social change in our community.”

The following individuals were elected to the Board for their first three-year term:

MARK BECKLES
Mark Beckles is president and CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada). His responsibilities include fundraising and developing partnerships with community and government stakeholders. Previously, Beckles has held senior positions in insurance and risk management over a period of 18 years in the Caribbean, UK and Canada. He is a Certified Risk Manager and holds an MBA in International Business from Bradford University in the United Kingdom. Beckles is a Brampton resident.

SAVINO DiPASQUALE
SavinoDiPasquale is Chief Information Officer and Vice President of Information Technology with GlaxoSmithKline Canada. He also chairs GSK’s Global IT Emerging Technology Council, responsible for the company’s emerging technology agency including the evaluation of new information technology opportunities. In 2006 he was named “CIO of the Year” by the Canadian Information Productivity Awards and CIO Canada. He is also a director of the Kids’ Health Links Foundation. Mr. DiPasquale is a computer science graduate from the University of Toronto.

SHAILA MEHTA
Shaila Mehta is a Chartered Accountant and a Partner in Deloitte’s Assurance & Advisory practice. She is also the Partner in charge of learning and growth for Deloitte’s audit practitioners in the Greater Toronto Area. Mehta has more than 15 years of experience in providing audit and advisory services, primarily in the manufacturing sector. She served as a Board member and Treasurer of the Mississauga Board of Trande from 2004 to 2006. Mehta holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from York University.

BONNIE WATERFIELD
Bonnie Waterfield is an Administrative Assistant at Family Transition Place in Orangeville. Waterfield returns to the Board after serving previously from 1997 to 2002. She has served as a member of United Way’s Community Investment Cabinet for more than 10 years, including as Chair for six years. In 2002 Waterfield chaired United Way’s Priorities Review Working Group, which identified community investment priorities and articulated the vision for building capacity in the human services sector. In 2003 she co-chaired the Capacity Building Sub-group of the Paving the Road Committee. This work led to the development of United Way’s outcomes measurement initiative, the development of the Strengthening Organizational Effectiveness Fund and the creation of the Peel Learning Institute. Waterfield is a resident of the Town of Caledon.

Continuing as Board members are Harold Brathwaite, Charles Courneyea, Michelle Cole, Matthew Curran, Vijay Kanwar, Louroz Mercader, Joseph Palumbo, Bobby Sachdeva, Don Taylor, Kamal Jolly, Norma Trim and Janice Telfer. Past Chair Dr. Colin Saldanha and Sean Smith, 2008 Campaign Chair, are ex officio members of the Board.

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — GE Canada today became just the second Peel-headquartered company to receive United Way of Canada-Centraide Canada’s most prestigious honour, the Thanks a Million Award. The award was presented at United Way of Peel Region’s Annual General Meeting at the Mississauga Convention Centre.

The Thanks a Million Awards are presented to organizations and affiliated unions that, through the combined efforts of their employees and members, have contributed more than one million dollars to United Ways-Centraides across the country. Thousands of organizations support United Way each year, however fewer than 100 achieve the results that make them eligible for this award.

“We congratulate GE Canada and its employees on this outstanding achievement,” says outgoing United Way of Peel Region Board Chair Colin Saldanha. “Their inspiring corporate citizenship, not only in Peel but across Canada, helps build better communities for everyone.”

GE Canada has 10,000 employees across the country and its head office is located in Mississauga. The company’s 2007 campaign slogan was “One Company, One Goal, One Million Reasons. United it’s our Way!”

Other 2007 Thanks a Million Award recipients who have locations in Peel region are:

• Bell Canada Enterprises, its Employees and Retirees
• Best Buy Canada Ltd.
• BMO Financial Group
• Canada Post and its Employees across Canada
• Canada Revenue Agency
• Canadian Union of Postal Workers
• Canadian Union of Public Employees
• Canadian Pacific Railway Limited
• CAW – Canada
• Chrysler Canada Inc.
• CIBC
• Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada
• Costco Wholesale
• Deloitte
• Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited and Employees
• Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life
• HSBC Bank Canada
• KPMG LLP
• Manulife Financial
• Ontario Public Service
• Ontario Public Service Employees Union
• Petro-Canada
• Pratt & Whitney Canada and its Employees
• PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
• Public Works and Government Services Canada
• RBC Financial Group
• Rogers Communications Inc.
• Scotiabank Group
• Service Canada
• TD Bank Financial Group
• UPS Canada/ UPS SCS Canada

“We congratulation all the Thanks a Million Award winners and thank them for their generosity and commitment,” says Saldanha.

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — Today 155 employees from across the region set aside their regular jobs to volunteer for the day at United Way-funded agencies in Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon. It was the largest turn-out for United Way’s spring Day of Caring since the initiative began in 1999.

At today’s event, volunteers from 16 different organizations in Peel completed 27 projects at 16 agencies funded by United Way of Peel Region. Their assignments included gardening, serving lunch, providing computer training, conducting practice job interviews, accompanying agency clients on outings, helping at a food bank, painting, yard work, and building an indoor greenhouse.

It would take one person half a year to do the work completed today by the volunteers.

Day of Caring is more than simply a chance to demonstrate individual caring; it also provides an invaluable opportunity to learn more about needs in our community and to see, first-hand, the work supported by United Way’s Community Fund.

“On the surface, our community looks great,” says Shelley White, United Way CEO. “But if you scratch the surface, you’ll see a different picture: poverty, abuse, discrimination, isolation, despair, and overwhelming stress. United Way, through its Community Fund, works with many different partners to tackle these complex social issues from several different angles, including prevention, crisis intervention, counselling and education. Together, we are improving individual lives and making our community stronger.”

The following organizations sent volunteers: Alcon Canada, Bantrel Co., Baxter Corporation, Bell Mobility, City of Mississauga, CPL, E.I. DuPont, G3 IT Advisors, IKON Office Solutions, Medtronic, National Starch, Region of Peel, Ricoh, Rogers, Tech Data, and the Trillium Health Centre.

The participating agencies were: Brampton Caledon Community Living, Caledon Community Services, Canadian Mental Health Association/Peel Branch, Community Living Mississauga, the Cross-cultural Community Services Association, Distress Centre Peel, Elizabeth Fry Society of Peel-Halton, Erin Mills Youth Outreach, Foodpath, John Howard Society of Peel-Halton-Dufferin, Malton Neighbourhood Services, Our Place (Peel), Peace Ranch, Rapport Youth & Family Services, Vita Centre and YMCA.

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — Several vulnerable neighbourhoods in Mississauga and Brampton have received a boost from United Way to assist them in creating opportunities for residents to work together to make their neighbourhoods stronger. United Way of Peel Region’s new Neighbourhood Development Grants, totaling $100,000, will help reduce isolation and exclusion while strengthening resident-led leadership and helping to revitalize local communities.

“The six projects that we are funding provide an excellent start to United Way’s neighbourhood development strategy,” says United Way CEO Shelley White. “Our goal is to engage and empower neighbourhoods, communities and key stakeholders in creating high-quality community-based solutions to local issues and challenges.”

Funding under this initiative has been directed to several community agencies which will in turn develop and manage the neighbourhood development projects. The following projects have received funding:

Malton Stewardship Day, taking place on Saturday April 26 in recognition of Earth Day, will include a tour for local residents of Malton’s major trail system, tree planting, and the creation of a canvas mural by event participants with the aid of a local artist. The mural will later be displayed at the Malton Community Centre. United Way is providing $6,000 to the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority for this event, which is expected to increase resident involvement and community pride.

McHardy Court & Fair Oaks is a high density neighbourhood in central Brampton. United Way is providing $18,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Peel to develop projects to build connections and strong relationships among neighbourhood residents. Activities will include communication circles, family movie nights, and a community festival. The project will empower residents to make positive choices for themselves and their community, encourage inclusion and promote education throughout the broader community.

Acorn Place is a high density neighbourhood in Mississauga near Hurontario Street and Eglinton Avenue. United Way is providing $21,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Peel to continue development of a community kitchen and garden, health and wellness activities for isolated seniors with physical limitations, as well as increasing involvement of youth in activities, facilitating parent support groups and a computer literacy program for adults.

The Brampton Kennedy Road Strip, north of Steeles and south of Queen Street is a community that is both culturally and economically diverse. United Way is providing the Brampton Neighbourhood Resource Centre with $15,000 for project activities that build resident leadership and the development of a small community event such as a summer neighbourhood clean-up or a winter celebration to bring people together. Community residents will be empowered and enabled as they take pride and ownership of their community.

In the Sheridan apartment complex, which is north of the QEW, near Erin Mills Parkway and adjacent to Sheridan Mall, newcomer families face multiple social, economic and language challenges that make it difficult for them to integrate and connect with the community. There are no traditional recreation facilities in this area other than the library within the mall, which limits the opportunities for families to engage in regular social and recreational neighbourhood activities. United Way is providing $21,000 to Boys and Girls Club of Peel to assist in the development of activities such as workshops, after-school programs, and community spirit events to engage residents and help them build positive relationships with one another.

The Malton Community Festival, taking place this year on July 5 and 6, has been bringing together a diverse combination of residents, associations and community organizations since 1976. United Way is providing $19,000 to Malton Neighbourhood Services to support the festival. Residents who attend the festival will meet many community organizations, enjoy a free barbecue and live entertainment in a vast multicultural environment where all performances promote unity and diversity.

“The desired outcomes of the six projects are to create connections within neighbourhoods, build relationships between residents and social service providers and empower residents to be leaders in creating a thriving community for all,” said Anita Stellinga, United Way’s Director of Community Investment. “The bottom line is, a neighbourhood that works together is safer, healthier and more productive.”

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — An enthusiastic crowd of 700 people cheered at the Pearson Convention Center this evening when United Way of Peel Region announced that it had raised $14,565,806 in 2007, surpassing the $14-million goal set last September.

"Our campaign theme this year was United we are stronger," said 2007 Campaign Chair Linda Kuga Pikulin, President of The Pepsi Bottling Group (Canada) Ltd. "Our community really demonstrated its collective strength in this campaign. Thousands of generous individuals and organizations from all across the region joined with us because they believe in creating lasting positive change that makes our community stronger."

The 2007 campaign achievement includes $2-million from national employee campaigns and an additional $1.7-million that has been designated by Peel donors to other United Ways or registered charities. National employee campaigns are coordinated by United Way for organizations that have head offices in Peel and have multiple locations across the country. Donations raised through national campaigns are distributed back to the communities in which they were raised.

"It takes a lot to make a community strong," United Way Board Chair Dr. Colin Saldanha told the guests. "It takes a vital business sector, good jobs, visionary political leadership, strong social services, opportunities for people to participate in the life of their community, and, most of all, it takes people who care. Together we are building the kind of community in which everyone can thrive."

United Way's Community Fund supports programs, services and initiatives that focus on meeting immediate human service needs as well as addressing the root causes of our community's most complex social challenges.

"United Way would like to thank the community and the many generous donors and volunteers who helped us raise this record amount," said United Way CEO Shelley White. "United Way will invest in reducing poverty, supporting the integration of newcomers, assisting victims of abuse, supporting children and youth to reach their potential, and helping seniors live healthy and independent lives."

Attendees at the celebration included volunteers from companies and organizations across the region, representatives from United Way-funded agencies, organized labour, and government and community leaders.

The Pepsi Bottling Group (Canada) Ltd. was the evening's title sponsor. Grant Thornton LLP provided an additional sponsorship and Lite Concept Design and Image Force provided in-kind support.

During the evening, United Way presented 21 Spirit Awards to organizations and individuals whose participation in the 2007 campaign was outstanding.

Funds pledged to United Way's Community Fund are used to improve social conditions in Peel by:

• Investing in a network of well-managed human care services and programs that are focused on meeting community priorities;
• Championing and leading community-based partnerships to tackle complex social issues;
• Providing training and skills development to agency staff and volunteers to ensure our community has a strong human care network;
• Advocating for changes in public policy to eliminate inequity and expand opportunities so individuals can fulfill their potential.

United Way is the largest non-governmental funder of social services in Peel. The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — United Way of Peel Region tonight announced the recipients of the 2007 Campaign Spirit Awards at its 2007 Community Achievement Celebration held at the Pearson Convention Center.

"The Spirit Awards program pays tribute to the most outstanding United Way campaigns over the past year," says United Way CEO Shelley White. "We are thrilled that close to 40,000 people and 484 organizations participated in the campaign this year, helping us raise a record $14,565,806. Congratulations to all the recipients!"

Best First-Time Campaign
This award is presented to a workplace campaign that has had outstanding participation in its first-ever campaign for United Way of Peel Region.
Winners:

• Less than 100 employees: Hill's Pet Nutrition Canada Inc., Mississauga
• More than 100 employees: Hatch Ltd., Mississauga

Outstanding Public-Sector Joint Union-Management Campaign
This award is given to the public-sector campaign that best exemplifies teamwork and leadership and involves both management and union employees.
Winners:

• Less than 500 employees: Hydro One Brampton and Canadian Auto Workers Local 1285 and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 636
• 500 or more employees: The City of Mississauga and Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 66, International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1212, International Association of Machinists District Lodge 78 and Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1527

Outstanding Private-Sector Joint Union-Management Campaign
This award is presented to the private-sector campaign that best exemplifies teamwork and leadership and involves both management and union employees.
Winners:

• Less than 100 employees: ESAB Group Canada Inc. and United Steelworkers Local 9042, Mississauga
• More than 100 employees: ArcelorMittal and United Steelworkers Local 7536, Brampton

Outstanding Agency Campaign Award
This award is presented to a United Way-funded agency that has exceptional participation in its employee United Way campaign.
Winners:

• Less than 20 employees: Rapport Youth & Family Services, Brampton And
• Canadian Hearing Society, Mississauga
• More than 20 employees: Peel Senior Link

Speakers' Bureau Award
This award is presented to the member of United Way's Speakers' Bureau who is an outstanding ambassador and public speaker.
Winner:

• Carmine Spadafora, St. Leonard's Place (Peel), Brampton

Outstanding Leadership Giving Campaign Award
This award is given to the organization that conducted an exemplary Leadership Giving Campaign. A Leadership donor gives more than $1,000 annually to United Way.
Winner:

• Bantrel Co., Mississauga

Outstanding Corporate Campaign Award
This award is presented to a corporation that excels in many areas of corporate support.
Winners:

• Less than 500 employees: The Pepsi Bottling Group (Canada) Co., Mississauga
• More than 500 employees: AstraZeneca Canada Inc., Mississauga

Outstanding Employee Campaign Award
This award is presented to the workplace campaigns with the most outstanding efforts of individuals or teams that ran exceptional employee campaigns.
Winners:

• 100 or fewer employees: The Clorox Company of Canada Inc., Brampton
• 101-499 employees: ESI Canada Inc., Mississauga
• 500 or more employees: Desjardins General Insurance Group, Mississauga

Best National Employee Campaign
This award is presented to an organization that runs an exceptional national campaign and has the greatest increase in participation and/or dollars raised.
Winner:

• GE Canada, Mississauga

'It's Your Say' Spirit Award for Youth
This award recognizes the vital importance of involving young people in United Way's work of building a strong and vibrant community for everyone.
Winners:

• Trelawny Public School, Mississauga
• Sandalwood Heights Secondary School, Brampton

Pacesetter Award
New in 2007, the Pacesetter Award is presented to a Campaign Pacesetter that has a strong percentage increase in participation, the number of leadership donors, and dollars raised/
Winner:

• Baxter Corporation, Mississauga

Chair's Award of Merit
A campaign of excellence is chosen to receive this special recognition.
Winner:

• Hewlett-Packard Canada Co., Mississauga

The winners were selected by the following panel of judges: United Way Board member Louroz Mercader; CEO Shelley White; Resource Development Director Ted Fauteux and Managers Susan Mortimer and Katryna Indewey; and April Bodiam, PCL Constructors.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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MISSISSAUGA — What do a print shop, internet cafe and cleaning service have in common? The three unique businesses are the first recipients of United Way of Peel Region’s new Social Purpose Enterprise Grants, totaling $100,000.

Operated by non-profit organizations, social purpose enterprises generate revenue while addressing social needs. By employing and supporting at-risk populations, these businesses create economic opportunities and community connections. They provide jobs, job-related training and experience, as well as a way to improve individual housing situations and foster life skills. United Way’s Social Purpose Enterprise Grants focus on reducing poverty by tackling some of its underlying causes.

“Social purpose enterprises have a double bottom line,” explains United Way CEO Shelley White. “They not only make money, they can make over lives as well.”

United Way is providing one-time grants to three existing social purpose enterprises in Peel. These grants are part of a pilot project as United Way explores the feasibility of creating a long-term social purpose enterprise strategy. The grants to all three enterprises will help them expand their marketing efforts so they can grow their businesses to the point where they can provide employment, training and support to more people.

The following organizations have received a Social Purpose Enterprise Grant:

DestinationCafé.ca, started in December 2006 by Supportive Housing in Peel, is an internet café located in Port Credit that serves freshly roasted, organic and Fair Trade coffees. It is staffed by individuals living with mental illness and provides a safe, supportive and flexible environment in which they can regain the confidence and skills required to maintain employment. United Way is providing a $35,000 grant.

Options Mississauga was established in 1993 by a group of parents concerned about the limited vocational opportunities for their adult children with intellectual disabilities. The enterprise, located in Port Credit, offers a variety of retail business services, focusing on printing and photocopying. Options Mississauga provides an inclusive work environment where people who have an intellectual disability receive support to learn the job skills they need to gain employment in the community. United Way is providing a $35,000 grant.

Licence to Clean is operated by St. Leonard’s Place Peel, a long-term residential facility that provides a place of safety and belonging for chronically homeless men with serious mental illness and those who have been in conflict with the law. Licence to Clean is located in Brampton and offers all types of commercial, industrial and residential cleaning, maintenance, landscaping, moving and small renovations. It is staffed by St. Leonard’s Place clients who want to work, but because of prejudice, mental illness or disability, face overwhelming barriers to employment. United Way is providing a grant of $30,000.

“Research shows that social purpose enterprise can have a very positive impact,” notes Anita Stellinga, United Way’s Director of Community Investment. “With the right social supports, individuals who have previously been unable to obtain or keep a job can achieve success.”

The mission of United Way of Peel Region is to engage with our community, through partnerships, to ensure people are cared for, connected and included.

Media Contacts:
Liz Leake
Communications and Marketing Director
905-602-3624
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