In these uncertain times, our university family continues to help those in need

UCalgary’s spirit has been seen recently through the 2019 United Way campaign, which has continued the energy from the past month to support the Calgary community’s unignorable issues, like poverty, mental health and social isolation.

Special events have included the Provost’s Office book sale, bake sales, kinesiology drop-in fitness classes (which continue a little longer) and the Chillin’ for Charity event, presented by JDC West from the Haskayne School of Business, which surpassed its fundraising goal of $30,000. These events, in combination with payroll donations and Give ‘n’ Thanks stars, have helped us get even closer to our institutional fundraising goal of $600,000.

Where are we at?

We are now past the halfway point of the campaign and are currently sitting at $392,660 — or 65.4 per cent — of our total goal. It's a record amount at this point in the campaign, but we still have some room to go as we push across the Dec. 13 finish line. These contributions will help improve the lives of thousands of Calgarians.

The Haskayne School of Business is in the lead of the Cannon Challenge Cup standings, with International, Human Resources, Cumming School of Medicine and Central Administration trailing close behind. The Cannon Challenge Cup is awarded annually to the faculty or unit with the highest combined faculty and staff participation, employee donations, and special event donations.

As an added bonus, United Way’s Leadership Giving Program is enhancing contributions by matching new donors of $1,200-plus, dollar for dollar, doubling your impact to support Calgarians in need. If you’re already a leadership donor and you increase your donation, the growth portion will be matched.

Get your colleagues together and make a commitment to support, or purchase some Give ‘n’ Thanks stars to build your numbers and recognize your team. There is still over three weeks left to bump the top contributors from their standing.

The United Way campaign is taking place at a time of uncertainty for our university family and our support of the campaign shows our commitment as a community to helping those in need. Giving is a voluntary action in good times and bad, and we hope that those who can give continue to do so. If you have questions about your donation, please contact DJ Kelly

Learn more about UCalgary’s United Way campaign and check out the full list of engaging activities running until Dec. 13. Give online, download a paper pledge form or find information on tax receipts related to your United Way investment. Or, your donation can easily be made through payroll deductions.