As a result of the United Way Central and South Okanagan Similkameen annual fundraising efforts and provincial funding, a total of $480,000 will be invested in South Okanagan communities this year.
Last year, United Way CSO invested a similar amount in 16 programs and services delivered by community agencies that ultimately supported children, youth, families and seniors in the community.
United Way CSO celebrated the 2016 campaign at Poplar Grove Winery last week. Over 70 community leaders, corporate sponsors, media partners, workplace campaign contributors, volunteers and funded partners were treated to an evening of appreciation thanks to sponsor, TD Bank.
“We are so thankful to all the contributors of the annual United Way campaign. True community heroes making a great impact to the lives of those in need in the community,” said Ian Gerbrandt, United Way CSO interim executive director.
Over 60 per cent of the community funds are generated by local workplace campaigns with the balance provide by corporate donations and individual donors. United Way prepared over 30 appreciation certificates for each workplace, corporate and media partner and presented them to those in attendance. Along with cash donations, corporate and media partners make a very significant impact to the campaign with in-kind donations ensuring United Way is able to target investments where they are most needed.
Other impactful services such as the Child Safety car seat initiative, Emergency Transportation program, 100 Homes Penticton, and other strategic initiatives rounded out United Way’s community development initiatives. The Better at Home and Success by Six program make up the balance of the provincial initiatives supporting the region.