News
- December 24, 2009
Holiday Hours at United Way Toronto
United Way Toronto's office will be closed at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 24. We will open again with a skeleton staff on Tuesday, December 29 and Wednesday, December 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - and close at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 31. We will return to our usual business hours at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, January 4.
If you wish to make a donation while our office is closed, you may donation online or send a greeting card with your donation — an e-receipt will be issued immediately.
Please note that all donations received prior to midnight on December 31 will receive a 2009 tax receipt. All donations made in 2010 will receive a 2010 tax receipt.
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December 17, 2009
Frances Lankin represented United Way Toronto in the Olympic torch relay
Royal Bank of Canada, the sponsor of this 45,000 kilometre journey, invited community organizations that are making a difference to participate in the run. United Way was chosen because of its efforts to build a better future for the city of Toronto. This is the longest torch relay in the history of the games, and United Way Toronto was both privileged and proud to be a part of it.
On her leg of the relay, Frances received the Olympic flame from William Onuwa of RBC Insurance (at right) and then transfered it to LPGA pro Lorie Kane. See more photos of United Way's participation in the torch relay.
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November 23, 2009
Steeles L'Amoreaux Resident Receives a Mayor's Community Safety Award for Beyond Academics
Cyleta Gibson-Sealy was one of five Torontonians to receive a Mayor's Community Safety Award. The award recognizes community safety projects that make Toronto a better place.
A Steeles L'Amoreaux resident, Ms. Sealy was recognized for Beyond Academics, an after-school program that helps local youth who struggle with academic and behavioural issues. Ms. Sealy provides a safe and comfortable place for participants to do their homework and learn how to deal with aggression, defuse potentially violent situations and effectively handle conflicts in a safe and peaceful manner. Participants follow the group's Think Before You Act motto, which helps them to examine the potential consequences of their action before they react, leading to more responsible choices.
Ms. Sealy is also involved in United Way's Action for Neighbourhood Change initiative in Steeles L'Amoreaux and a proud member of Steeles L'Amoreaux Resident Association, United Way's Community Builders Exchange, the Steeles L'Amoreaux/Glendower Parents Group, and the Resident Based Crisis Response Team.
- November 23, 2009
UWT honoured with Voluntary Sector Reporting Award for the second year in a row
Read the award winning 2008 Annual Report (pdf - 1 MB).
United Way Toronto and Covenant House tied for first place among charities with revenues over $10 million for the second year in a row at the Voluntary Sector Reporting Awards (VSRAs). The VSRA award highlights the growing importance placed on transparency, accountability and reporting in the not-for-profit sector. These allow donors to make informed decisions about where they give, help keep staff and volunteers motivated, and build confidence among the public.
"We're humbled to receive this important recognition," said Frances Lankin, President and CEO of United Way Toronto. "Each year we strive to improve on our work, to go even further in our efforts to produce a report that is as transparent and informative as possible. We're so pleased these efforts were recognized."
"In 2008, the Voluntary Sector Reporting Awards (VSRAs) program was launched by CA-Queen's Centre for Governance with an eye towards promoting timely and accurate financial statements," said Steve Salterio, Director of the CA-Queen's Centre for Governance. "If this type of award can help charities show current and potential supporters that they practise assessable, clear and transparent reporting about how they handle their resources and fulfill their mandates, then only good things can happen."
At a time when financial reporting is becoming increasingly important to organizations of all types and sizes, the VSRAs recognize those organizations within Ontario's diverse and growing not-for-profit sector that have achieved best practices. Organizations competed in categories based on revenue size with the winner in each category receiving $5,000 and recognition as leaders in the field. The $5,000 will go toward the United Way Toronto's annual campaign.
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October 29, 2009
Frances Lankin receives honourary degree from Queen's University
United Way President and CEO Frances Lankin received an honourary doctorate from Queen's University. Frances received this award in recognition of a lifetime spent in service to her community. The recognition by Queen's University not only honours the personal passion and commitment Frances brings to her work, but it also speaks to the importance and impact of United Way's involvement in the community.
Photo caption: Frances Lankin is joined by Chancellor David Dodge (left), and Principal and Vice-Chancellor Daniel Woolf (right), both of Queen's University. -
Bhayana Family Foundation Awards recognize extraordinary contributions by staff at United Way funded agencies
The Bhayana Family Foundation Awards were presented at a breakfast reception at the ROM on Tuesday, November 3, 2009.
The recipients were selected by United Way Toronto based on peer nominations received in the following five categories: dedication, partnership builder, innovation & creativity, leadership and team achievement. The dedication, creativity and team spirit shown by employees of agencies funded by United Way Toronto is essential to advancing the common good, community and neighbourhood building, and creating a better city for us all. These awards are made possible by a generous donation from Raksha M. Bhayana and the Bhayana Family Foundation.
Meet the recipients and learn about their extraordinary contributions to the people of Toronto.
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Quick Start project in AVIVA Community Funds Competition
United Way is trying to raise $150,000 to fund resident projects in Toronto's 13 priority neighbourhoods by entering the AVIVA Community Fund Competition. We need to gather more than 10,000 votes to get us into the semi-finals.
We need you to vote for Quick Start every day until November 29. Find out more about Quick Start in the AVIVA Community Fund Competition.
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2009 campaign takes off with a million dollar boost
It was certainly a first for First Canadian Place as hundreds of United Way agency members and community supporters converged upon the grand lobby from every entrance to join the United Way 2009 Campaign kickoff. The mood was joyful, the enthusiasm loud and clear. This was, as Frances Lankin would say moments later, "the beginning of a very special time—a celebration of the spirit and generosity of Toronto as hundreds of workplaces across the city launch United Way campaigns in support of our work in the community."
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From the frontlines: reports from our agencies
The economic downturn continues to impact our community
United Way agencies continue to see significant increases in demand for services from families who need help, from people who have lost their jobs, from our friends and neighbours who have nowhere left to turn. Read some recent reports from our member agencies...
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United Way and the province celebrate supporters of the Youth Challenge Fund
Slaight Family Foundation and other members of private sector honoured for helping build young leaders in 13 priority neighbourhoods
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty and United Way Toronto's Frances Lankin joined Youth Challenge Fund Chair and Toronto Argonauts CEO Michael ‘Pinball' Clemons on September 16, 2009 at a special reception at Queen's Park, honouring individuals and members of the private sector who have supported the work of the Youth Challenge Fund (YCF).
The Youth Challenge Fund was established in 2006 as a partnership between the Government of Ontario and United Way Toronto. It has invested in 111 unique youth-led initiatives that use creative, collaborative approaches to engage and provide opportunities for young people in Toronto's 13 priority neighbourhoods.
YCF was designed to mobilize, convene and engage hard-to-reach youth, and to challenge community members and young people to embrace the ideas and leadership of Toronto youth. This approach empowers youth as they build relationships with community service organizations and institutions. As a result, all partners collaborate and develop skills to work in new, more effective ways.
For Frances Lankin, President and CEO of United Way Toronto, YCF has meant an opportunity for the community to be flexible in how it responds to the needs of youth.
After an initial provincial investment of $15 million in 2006, United Way Toronto leveraged additional provincial matching funds by raising $15.8 million, generously provided by individual and private sector donors. A $5 million gift from the Slaight Family Foundation greatly contributed to United Way's fundraising success, enabling a total investment in YCF of $46.6 million.
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United we can!
United Way Toronto's Annual General Meeting, held on June 4th, took place in the midst of an extraordinarily challenging and unpredictable economic environment, the likes of which no one present had ever encountered before. The importance of stable funding in these unstable times cannot be overemphasized. It means that 200 agencies across Toronto can continue to provide urgent health and social services to individuals, families and children. With an 9.6% unemployment rate that's higher than the national average and the number of people receiving EI up 85% over last year—the demand for these services is climbing at a fast rate.
Read highlights from the AGM: where funds are being disbributed in 2009, how United Way continues to tackle root causes of complex social issues, and watch the 2009 Campaign video...
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The lunch program is full
We recently asked United Way member agencies to tell us about what they are seeing ‘on the ground' meeting needs from individuals and families affected by the economic downturn. As many described their struggles to deliver services amid a rapidly growing demand for help, the word "increase" was the common denominator. Then, from one of our agencies, we learned this: "the lunch program is full ... people are very hungry and needy" and these eleven short words said it all.
Read about increased demand at United Way agencies for job assistance, employment programs, free bread programs...
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United Way Toronto and University of Toronto present co-certificate in innovative leadership
CITY Leaders graduates are ready to make a meaningful contribution to their communities.
The Creative Institute for Toronto's Young (CITY) Leaders entered a new phase. We have a new partnership between United Way Toronto's Capacity Building Unit (CBU) and University of Toronto's Factor Inwentash Faculty of Social Work. The second cohort of CITY Leaders graduated with a co-certificate in leadership from United Way Toronto and University of Toronto's Faculty of Social Work. This multifaceted institute sees its participants graduate as well-rounded leaders that are ready to contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. The institute enhances their leadership journey by providing them with innovative tools, skills, resources and networks. CITY Leaders brings together a new generation of nonprofit leaders reflecting this city's diversity and provides them with a space where they can thrive, commit themselves to excellence and evolve to their maximum potential.
"Like many young leaders, I began working at a small two staff agency, with no budget for professional development. I would not have been able to reach my current career goals if it wasn't for the training, mentoring, and much more, I received through CITY Leaders at no cost to my agency" says CITY Leaders graduate Dahab Hagos. She is one of two Program Coordinators recently recruited by United Way Toronto to help with customizing CITY Leaders to support an additional 100 young adults from the 13 priority neighbourhoods of Toronto (through funding support from the Youth Challenge Fund).
- June 29, 2009
United Way Toronto partners to provide summer opportunities for children and youth
The Toronto District School Board launches its 2009 Focus On Youth Toronto summer program offering opportunities for children and youth across the city
The 2009 Focus On Youth Toronto program (FOYT) will provide free school space to allow 110 agencies to offer over 140 learning and recreational programs for children and youth in 105 school and community sites during July and August 2009. These programs are expected to serve over 15,000 children and youth from high-need neighbourhoods.
Focus on Youth Toronto will also employ 400 secondary students who will be placed in jobs in these agencies as well as in summer school maintenance and skilled-trades jobs in TDSB schools. All students will be provided with pre-employment training, and leadership training during the summer.
United Way Toronto is a major FOYT partner and provides additional funding to their agencies to support their participation in the program. "United Way Toronto is once again proud to support Focus on Youth. Our agencies have a significant role to play in helping the children and youth of our communities to develop the foundation they need for future success," said United Way Toronto President and CEO, Frances Lankin. "Our partnership with TDSB in Focus on Youth enables us to work together towards that goal."
- read the media release
- June 25, 2009
Sports pad a student's dream come true
Youth Challenge Fund provides $450,000 after Dorset Park teens mobilize
The Dorset Park Youth Initiative was one of 17 groups last month to get money from the Youth Challenge Fund (YCF), a $45 million private-public funding initiative, involving the province and United Way Toronto, with a mandate to support youth-run projects in the city. The YCF was born of the "summer of the gun," a deadly period in 2005 when 52 youth across the city were killed by gunfire. YCF projects, like the Dorset Park sports pad, are motivating young people to get involved because they can see their efforts making a difference in their community. » read more
- May 14, 2009
Bringing neighbours together
Community Day of Caring generates 1200 volunteer hours creating safe, clean, accessible community space
United Way Toronto's second annual Community Day of Caring was a resounding success with over 400 volunteers from across Toronto coming together to complete 55 community projects at United Way member agencies/hubs, neighbourhood associations and City of Toronto Parks and Recreation. An incredible 1200 hours of volunteer time was generated in just one day making a lasting impact on the community. » read more
- May 11, 2009
UWT's Frances Lankin honoured with Community Building Award by Italian Chamber of Commerce of Toronto (ICCT)
United Way Toronto's president and CEO Frances Lankin will be presented with a 2009 Business Excellence Award for Community Building by the Italian Chamber of Commerce of Toronto (ICCT). Five awards will be presented to successful individuals in recognition of their continuous effort and commitment to the development of the community.
The gala event takes place May 13 at the Liberty Grand, celebrating the achievements of 2009 Business Excellence Award winners: Mr. Toni Varone, Varone Group (Business Excellence Award); Mr. Alex Rechichi & Mr. Mark Rechichi, Extreme Brandz Inc. (New Generation Award); Mr. Franco Mirabelli, Mirabelli (Arts and Culture Award); Mr. Tony Verrelli, Cleanfield Energy Corp (Scotiabank ICCT Environmental Leadership Award); and Ms. Frances Lankin.
For more information on the event, visit italchambers.ca or call 416 789 7160.
- May 7, 2009
Toronto Life Magazine Names Frances Lankin in their 50 Reasons to Love Toronto Now
In Toronto Life's June issue, United Way president and CEO is listed as the 21st reason to love Toronto Now — because we care about our neighbours.
Kelly Pullen writes: "... it's through her stewardship of the United Way that she has been a phenomenon, cajoling us to love not only our own neighbours, but also our neighbours across town... The result is a city that is more engaged, more interconnected and ultimately happier."
Read the full story in Toronto Life, on newsstands now.
- May 2009
United Way staff honour their own at M-B Family Spirit Awards
The M-B Family Spirit Awards celebrate the achievements and contributions of our co-workers in the categories of Dedication, Innovation and Creativity, Leadership and Team Achievement. The awards and celebration are made possible because of a donation from Raksha Bhayana, a long-time United Way volunteer who serves on United Way Toronto's Board of Trustees as well as several Board Committees. In her interactions with staff, Raksha saw the contributions that demonstrated the depth of intelligence and commitment that UWT staff bring to their work and wanted to help recognize them formally.
This year, the Nomination Review Committee, a group of staff volunteers representing different departments of the organization, had 15 peer nominations to consider – four for Dedication, six for Leadership, three for Innovation & Creativity and two for Team Achievement. Nominees and recipients of the 4th Annual M-B Family Spirit Awards were honoured by their peers at the United Way offices in late April. » read more
- May 1, 2009
Action for Neighbourhood Change at work: annual Jane's Walk feature 10 tours of the 13 priority neighbourhoods
Toronto's rich and diverse cultures are featured in over 90 Jane's Walks, a series of free neighbourhood walking tours that helps put people in touch with their environment and with each other, by bridging social and geographic gaps and creating a space for cities to discover themselves. Many of the walks are being held in Toronto's 13 priority neighbourhoods, areas identified in the United Way Toronto Strong Neighbourhood Strategy that require focused investment to strengthen neighbourhood supports. This year, 10 walks have been organized by local residents and members of the Action for Neighbourhood Change (ANC) groups within these communities.
There have been major population changes over the last two decades, with growing levels of poverty in the inner suburbs and few services to meet the needs of residents. ANC creates opportunities that enable local residents to play a central role in shaping their neighbourhoods. Meet some of the previously isolated neighbours who now call each other friends, and see the pride that they have in their neighbourhoods, and the dreams that they have for its future. All of the walks featured below were created by residents working together with the goal of making their neighbourhood a better place to live.
- April 6, 2009
Toronto runner for United Way wins seven-day Desert Race
Captain Mehmet Danis of Toronto raced 250-km across gruelling desert terrain in blistering heat to win the Atacama Crossing race in Chile.
Danis defeated dozens of other competitors from around the globe to raise awareness and inspire giving to United Way Toronto. In a year that will likely be very tough for thousands of people in Toronto, his efforts will go a long way to strengthen the community.
Danis is raising funds for United Way Toronto's Community Fund, which assists individuals, families, and communities by supporting services that improve people's lives.
Find out more about Captain Danis's race across the desert. You can still help him raise his goal of $6,000 by making a donation. You can also post a message of support on his donation page.
- March 31, 2009
Runner for United Way in first place on Day Three of 250 km Atacama desert race
At the first checkpoint on day three, Mehmet Danis of Canada is setting a blistering pace out in front. "So far it's easy," he said. "It's flat, so I'm going to take advantage of that. The hills are my nemesis and the guy behind me just won't quit."
Torontonian Captain Mehmet Danis has pulled out ahead of Damon Goerke of Australia and Marco Gazzola of Switzerland. The seven-day, six-stage race across the Atacama Desert draws participants from twenty five countries. Captain Danis and others need to carry their own gear, food and clothing in a backpack. The only assistance provided is water, tents and medical assistance.
Captain Danis is running for United Way Toronto, raising funds for the Community Fund, which assists individuals, families and communities by supporting services that improve peoples' lives.
Find out more about Captain Danis's race across the desert. Help him on his run by posting a message of support or by making a donation.
- March 2009
Building long-term, sustainable changeIn a "city of neighbourhoods", we must continue to create conditions for every community to thrive
Most people know about United Way's commitment to supporting a network of health and social service agencies across Toronto. But United Way is also working to create lasting changes by investing in strategic initiatives and building public understanding of systemic issues. A key focus of these efforts is United Way's Neighbourhood Strategy—an initiative aimed at strengthening those inner-suburban neighbourhoods most in need of targeted support. This strategy is a response to growing trends of localized poverty and population growth in Toronto.
Read more about how United Way Toronto is building long-term, sustainable change.
- March 2009
During tough times, the community turns to United WayAs this full blown economic crisis takes it toll—the numbers of people who need help will increase dramatically in the months to come. United Way member agencies will be called upon more and more for financial counselling, employment training, food services and shelter.
Read how stable core funding to Untied Way member agencies is more important than ever before.
- February 2009
Photo: Jackson Parrell-2009$107.5 Million! Thank you Toronto!
There is a special vibe in a room full of over 1,600 people who collectively defied the odds. It's a vibe that resonates with enthusiasm and pride, with the sheer joy that comes from a job not just well done in the face of adversity but superbly done in spite of adversity. And it clearly expressed the mood at United Way's 2008 Celebration Dinner.
Read more about United Way Toronto's 2008 campaign achievement.
