1.1 Million Reasons To Smile

Thursday, 28 February 2013 10:08

Their goal was 1.1 million dollars. The United Way of Oxford celebrated the end of the 2012 campaign with their annual Touchdown Celebration at the Quality Hotel & Suites Thursday night. As Executive Director Kelly Gilson pointed out, they had an aggressive goal set for the campaign; but through the generous donations from local businesses, organizations and community members they were able to surpass that goal by raising an amazing $1,102,856. Gilson says they are thrilled with the success of the campaign. ?Another remarkable year; I just want people to know how grateful we are for their support, for their volunteerism and that we, the United Way staff and the board promise to do really good things with those dollars to change lives here in Oxford County.? Campaign Chair John Macintosh thanked the community for their continued support of the United Way. ?There's a lot of asks that are going on in the community and a lot of incredibly worthwhile charitable organizations and I think most people when they're asked have probably been peppered by a number of different organizations. The thing that constantly surprises me is just the generosity in this community.? Gilson says $585,000 will go to their 13 member agencies with the other funds being allocated through the year. She says they had three areas of focus for this year. ?Poverty to possibility; healthy people/strong communities and all that kids can be.? The funds are raised through annual events like the Stair Climb and Breakfast with Santa, as well as workplace campaigns and individual donations. Sponsored employee, Tim Hicks from GM Cami Assembly & CAW Local 88 says being a part of the team was an amazing and incredible experience. ?It's hard to summarize but I got to experience the depth that the United Way of Oxford touches the community. I got to meet so many of the service providers and the agencies and so many of the individuals that their programs help through the United Way funding; it's just been incredible?. Spirit Awards were handed out to businesses, organizations and individuals for their work and dedication during the 2012 campaign. Here is a list of the recipients: Corporate Support Award Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Steelcraft Inc. Joint Management & Union Award GM Cami Assembly Plant & CAW Local 88 First Campaign Award Steel Technologies Quantum Leap Award Toyota Tsusho, Green Metals and Maple Automotive Employee Campaign Coordinator Award Ken Worsley ? Western General Canvasser Team Award Timberland Equipment Limited SAF Holland & Local 636 Media Appreciation 104.7 Heart FM Rogers TV Sentinel Review Volunteer Award Bill McKinnon Amanda Kreiger Award of Excellence Canada Stampings