Honouring those who helped raise $1.4 million for the United Way Peterborough & District’s 2023 campaign, the organization held a community celebration on Thursday (April 11) at The Venue in downtown Peterborough.
“Our success isn’t just measured in dollars, but in the lives touched and futures transformed,” said United Way CEO Jim Russell in a media release. “With $1.4 million raised, surpassing last year by eight per cent, we prove that when a community unites, the impact knows no bounds.”
With in-kind sponsorship from The Venue and photographer Andrew Macdonald, Thursday’s event included the presentation of the 2023 Community Campaign Spirit Awards to 23 donors, workplaces, and volunteers — including to kawarthaNOW writer Paul Rellinger for his volunteer work organizing the fourth Peterborough Performs benefit concert on March 7, which raised more than $30,000 for the United Way’s partner agencies supporting people in the community who are experiencing homelessness.
The United Way’s director of philanthropy Anne Ondercin led the presentation of the Spirit Awards.
“In our community, every contribution to the United Way campaign, whether it’s a donation or volunteer effort, is invaluable for funding essential social programs and initiatives,” Ondercin said.
“The Spirit Awards celebrate those who went above and beyond in 2023, highlighting their dedication and inspiring us all with their commitment to making a difference.”
Ondercin also thanked departing campaign chair Jim Hendry for his significant efforts and dedication
“It has been a privilege to act as United Way Peterborough & District’s 2023 Campaign Chair, and I extend heartfelt thanks to our community for their unwavering support,” Hendry said. “Together, we are creating a foundation of hope, compassion, and empowerment.”
Below are the winners of the United Way’s 2023 Community Campaign Spirit Awards.
Spirit Of The Community
- Cogeco
- IG Wealth Management
- Royal Bank of Canada
- Dr. Stephan Ragaz
Outstanding Workplace Campaign Award (Large)
- GM Financial
- Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic School Board
- Trent University
Outstanding Workplace Campaign Award (Small)
- Irwin, Sargent & Lowes
- Lucky Strike Bait Works
- Enterprise Holdings
Champions Of Change Award
- GM Financial – Tim Parmiter and Kirsten Valencia
- Trent University – MK Millard and Alison Sholl
- Peterborough Performs – Paul Rellinger
Inspiring Local Love Award
- Andritz Hydro
- Ontario Public Service
- Costco Peterborough
Labour Community Partnership Award
- Peterborough & District Labour Council
Outstanding Partner Agency
- Community Living Trent Highlands
- Elizabeth Fry Society
- Peterborough Child and Family Centres
