York University will aim to raise $200,000 this year to support local agencies and programs when it launches its annual York Cares United Way Campaign on Nov. 2.
Each year, the York U community participates in the campaign and last year raised close to $185,000. These funds support social services in the community, some of which impact York U programs and students directly.
“It’s that time of year again when York University has the opportunity to demonstrate our spirit of sharing and caring with our wider community through the 2016 York Cares United Way Campaign,” said Jeff O’Hagan, vice-president Advancement and campaign leadership co-chair, along with Provost Rhonda Lenton and Osgoode Hall Law School Dean Lorne Sossin. “York University has a long history of supporting and working with the United Way and we would like to continue that tradition with the same enthusiasm and support.”
The United Way Toronto and York Region is the largest private-sector supporter of social services in Toronto.
Its work is fueled by groundbreaking research and powerful partnerships, which allows it to identify gaps and responsibly mobilize volunteer and financial resources for the most direct impact: effecting positive and lasting change, right here where we all live, work and raise our families.
Special events to support the 2016 York Cares United Way Campaign will take place across campus through the month of November, including:
• Campaign Kick-Off & President’s Pancake Breakfast – Nov. 2, 8 to 10am, Central Square
The president and members of the leadership team will be fundraising while flipping pancakes in the spirit of community, so mark your calendars and remember to bring a toonie ($2) for your hot beverage and a stack of pancakes.
• Pledge Drive – Nov. 2 to 23
This is the most important element of the campaign, with 95 per cent of donations coming from the Pledge Drive. On Launch Day, the UnitedWay@Work online pledge tool will be shared with members of the York community.
• Skills & Talents Auction – Nov. 17 and 18, 11:30am to 1pm, West Office Building
The Division of Advancement will host its second annual Skills & Talents Auction, which allows staff and faculty to showcase their creativity and hidden talents to colleagues. It is a great way to help raise funds for a good cause. If you can’t donate, you can always bid on one of the many items up for auction. Contact yucares@yorku.ca for more.
• Campaign Wrap-Up Event – to be announced
There are many ways to get involved in the campaign, including attending the events, or becoming a York Cares Ambassador.
The Community Relations team is seeking volunteer ambassadors to help spread awareness about the York Cares Campaign across our campuses. If you would like to get involved contact yucares@yorku.ca or Mandi Hickman at ahickman@yorku.ca or by calling ext. 44206.
For more information, visit alumniandfriends.yorku.ca/2016-united-way-campaign/#getinvolved.