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| Cake? Third-year commerce student Stephanie Howatt offers a slice during the United Way barbecue Tuesday at noon. (Nick Pearce Photo) |
Two hundred and ten in twenty-ten; $210,000 that is.
After surpassing last year’s goal of $200,000, the annual Dalhousie United Way campaign is aiming higher this year to reach $210,000. The campaign officially kicks off today, Tuesday, Oct. 12, at noon with three simultaneous barbecues on Studley, Carleton and Sexton campuses. The cost is $2 with the proceeds going to the United Way.
“We were really excited last year to not only reach, but exceed, our campaign goal,” says Liz Cowley, associate professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics and campaign co-chair. “This year, we believe the Dalhousie community will support the campaign just as strongly and we are excited to try reaching that little bit higher.”
Like last year, this season will feature a blitz campaign, condensing the core fundraising to three weeks from October 12 to the 29. Campaign proceeds go to United Way of Halifax, which supports 55 agencies in HRM and other community initiatives that engage residents in the support of safe, vibrant and healthy neighbourhoods.
“The United Way is everywhere in HRM and they support so many services and causes throughout our community. They are simply a huge part of who we are,” says Peter Dykhuis, director of the Dalhousie Art Gallery and campaign co-chair. “Dalhousie has a wonderful reputation for supporting the United Way. In fact, our workplace campaign was the first in Halifax, and we can all come together once again to help this wonderful organization.”
Among the incentives to donate are the contest prizes, which have been very popular in previous campaigns. All Dalhousie faculty and staff who donate from October 12 through to the 29 are eligible to win a reserved, outdoor parking spot for 12 months or a year's worth of bus passes. (Imagine no longer being caught up in the daily hunt for parking!) Also available is a free lunch for four at the University Club.
New this year to the United Way of Halifax campaign is a challenge from Manulife Financial commemorating the 85th anniversary of the Halifax United Way. The program will match new and increased donations at the leadership level ($1,000 or more) to support the Halifax United Way’s 2010 campaign up to $85,000. If you’re already a leader, the difference from any increased donation (i.e. from $1000 to $1400) will be matched. This is a great program to make your donation reach even further.
Donating is easy and there are many options available. The secure donation website can be accessed anytime or paper forms can be acquired from your area coordinator or downloaded from the Dalhousie United Way website. Donations can be made through convenient payroll deductions, single or multiple cash, cheque or credit card donations, or a perpetual pledge. No contribution is too small and every donation makes a difference.
Visit: http://unitedway.dal.ca to learn more about the campaign.