Through workplace campaigns, donation boxes and a week dedicated to fundraising, the United Way Alberta Northwest is again looking to raise $1.3 million to support its 22 community partners. Executive Director Brenda Yamkowy says they understand that residents and businesses are struggling themselves in the current economy.
“We’re really focusing on whatever people can give, to dig deep in their pockets and really try to help us out to support our community partners. Grande Prairie and the region has been spectacular in giving back; we’re just asking people to really think about giving just a little bit more.”
Last year they came up about $350,000 short of their goal, but now that the region has expanded to include the Slave Lake area, Yamkowy expects to see more coming in. At the same time, the slump in oil prices also means the amount needed could be even higher than expected.
“Many of our workplace campaigns and bigger companies who do help support us have already had to make layoffs and cuts in their departments as well, so we’re already seeing that effect and that has a ripple down effect throughout the community. The less we are able to raise and give to our community partners, the more that need will be.”
Thanks to a $10,000 cheque from Alliance Pipeline, over $67,000 raised through the Northern Mat Charity Shoot, and an expected $14,000 from the Subway Million Dollar Golf Tournament, there’s already a base going in to United Way Week at the end of October.