United we can!
Tammy Clarke has become an important agent of change by bringing together other community members in the Steeles-L’Amoreaux Action for Neighbourhood Change(ANC).
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. Frances Lankin opened her remarks saying, "I don't have to tell you how tough it is out there so I want to begin by talking about our success, the success of our entire community in coming together to face the challenges presented."
Stable funding in unstable times
"In a year when it really matters," she continued, "the people of Toronto demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to their community and to each other. Their caring and generosity will ensure stable core funding to our frontline agencies, as well as United Way programs and initiatives in the inner suburbs."
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.
How the funds are being distributed in 2009
- $73 million invested across Toronto through stable support to United Way’s network of health and social service agencies, and special programs and initiatives, particularly in the inner suburbs.
- $7.6 million distributed to other United Ways, as directed by donors, including Ajax-Pickering-Uxbridge, Oakville, Peel and York Region.
- $14.3 million distributed to other charities other than United Way, as directed by donors.
Watch the 2009 campaign video: United We Can!
Tackling root causes of complex social issues
Meeting urgent human needs is central to United Way's mission. At the same time, we are deeply committed to tackling the root causes of the complex social issues that Toronto faces. The generosity of Torontonians means continued support for our Neighbourhood Strategy, for long term initiatives like Action for Neighbourhood Change (ANC) and Community Hubs that strengthen vulnerable neighbourhoods, change community conditions, engage at-risk youth, and help residents help themselves.
We are all in this together
No one organization, no single level of government can tackle the issues alone. It takes a whole community working together to create lasting change. United Way will continue to work closely with all levels of government, bring all stakeholders to the table, and mobilize people from all walks of life. As partners in a shared cause, we will be able to change social conditions and make Toronto the great city it can be, with opportunities for everyone… in every neighbourhood.
The music from our 2009 Campaign video really does sum it up: "We are all in this together!". Watch the video online.
Frances Lankin thanked Bob Harding, outgoing Chair of the Board of Trustees, for his advice and leadership, his passion for Toronto and its people, and his outstanding generosity, including a donation of $1 million for the 2008 Leadership Challenge Grant. "He kept his eye on the goal," she said, "and helped United Way fulfill our mission of meeting urgent needs and creating opportunities for a better life for everyone." Bob will remain integral to the United Way family in his new role as Chair of the Board Development Committee.
Frances welcomed Alnasir Samji as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees, saying "He brings great expertise and commitment to his new role and we look forward to working with him." Alnasir has been active with United Way for over a decade, most recently as Vice-Chair, Finance and Treasurer on the Board of Trustees. Over the years he has served as Chair of several committees and has been an active member on others.
United we can! was the Cover Story in our quarterly newsletter, Community Matters: Summer 2009
