United we can

As United Way's Annual General Meeting approaches, we are reflecting on all that was accomplished last year. At the start of 2009, Toronto was in the midst of uncertain economic times. Our city was weathering one of the most serious recessions in generations. Rising jobless numbers heralded the beginning of significant ongoing pressure on social service agencies to meet increasing demand for programs and services.

Many were hoping for a quick recovery, but there is often a gap between markets improving and the community recovering. People who were struggling in good economic times were falling even further behind.

People in the city began turning to United Way community agencies in larger numbers than ever before. United Way made a commitment to maintain stable funding to these crucial agencies. This gave them the stability and flexibility they needed to respond to urgent needs at a critical time.

We also made significant progress on addressing the root causes of social problems, particularly through our Building Strong Neighbourhoods Strategy. The very first Community Hub launched in Eglinton East-Kennedy Park. Action for Neighbourhood Change, our resident engagement initiative, continued its work across Toronto's priority neighbourhoods. We also targeted funding support to the inner suburbs.

Working harder than ever before, we challenged the people of Toronto to join us in continuing to build a stronger city. Thousands of people across the city heard our call and responded, helping to raise $109 million, the highest campaign achievement in United Way's history.

While the recession may be over, there are still many uncertainties ahead and much work to be done. United Way remains committed to helping our community fully recover and build resiliency in our city to prepare us to weather any storm.

United we can was the Cover Story in our quarterly newsletter, Community Matters: June 2010