On Thursday, April 11th, United Way Peterborough & District honored donors, volunteers, and workplaces for their dedication to the 2023 Community Campaign at The Venue in Peterborough. Over 100 community leaders gathered, filling the room with gratitude and joy. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Spirit Awards to 23 outstanding workplaces and individuals who exemplified extraordinary commitment to supporting their community through the United Way Campaign in 2023.

“Our success isn’t just measured in dollars, but in the lives touched and futures transformed. With $1.4 million raised, surpassing last year by 8%, we prove that when a community unites, the impact knows no bounds. Here’s to reaching greater heights together,” effused Jim Russell, CEO, United Way Peterborough & District.

“Gratitude fuels our journey towards a brighter future. It has been a privilege to act as United Way Peterborough & District’s 2023 Campaign Chair, and I extend heartfelt thanks to our community for their unwavering support. Together, we are creating a foundation of hope, compassion, and empowerment.” says Jim Hendry, United Way Peterborough & District’s 2023 Campaign Cabinet Chair.

“We invest in community and in people. With our donors’ support, we invest money into the community in a few different ways.” Said Betsy Farrar, Director, Community Impact at United Way Peterborough & District. “In addition to providing funding to 20 partner agencies, advocacy is a critical aspect of our work. Ultimately, our grand vision for Peterborough is that we get to a place where the United Way exists solely as a community builder as the crises we currently face have been resolved.”

Anne Ondercin, Director Philanthropy, United Way Peterborough & District, led the presentation of special Spirit Awards including a special thank you to Jim Hendry, for his significant efforts and dedication as he departed the role of Campaign Chair. “In our community, every contribution to the United Way campaign, whether it’s a donation or volunteer effort, is invaluable for funding essential social programs and initiatives. The Spirit Awards celebrate those who went above and beyond in 2023, highlighting their dedication and inspiring us all with their commitment to making a difference.”

Congratulations to United Way’s 2023 Community Campaign Spirit Award winners:

SPIRIT OF THE COMMUNITY AWARD

The Spirit of the Community Award honours an individual, group or organization that personifies exceptional community spirit, team spirit and spirit of generosity through their significant overall partnership with United Way, deepening our community building partnerships. Congratulations to our 2023 Spirit of the Community honourees!

INSPIRING LOCAL LOVE AWARD

The Inspiring Local Love Award highlights campaigns that persevered through even the most challenging times to ensure they continued to support their local communities with United Way. Congratulations to our 2023 Inspiring Local Love honourees!

LABOUR COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD

The Labour Community Partnership Award honours a labour partner whose members have shown dedication to the community through exceptional financial and volunteer support, exemplifying the sustained and rewarding relationship between the labour movement and United Way. Congratulations to our 2023 honouree!

CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE AWARD

The Champions of Change Award recognizes the outstanding leadership of Campaign Champions who showed dedication, passion and tenacity, to inspire their colleagues to get involved and give back, to raise funds and awareness for key issues facing our community.  Congratulations to our 2023 Champions of Change honourees!

OUTSTANDING PARTNER AGENCY AWARD

This award acknowledges Partner Agencies that have shown outstanding efforts in informing and engaging employees while increasing donations in their United Way Campaign. We appreciate the all of our partner agencies and want to celebrate three agencies who went above and beyond in 2023 to support the community that supports them. Congratulations to our 2023 Outstanding Partner Agency honourees!

OUTSTANDING WORKPLACE CAMPAIGN AWARD (SMALL)

The Outstanding Workplace Campaign Award acknowledges workplace that have shown outstanding efforts in informing and engaging employees while increasing donations in a larger workplace, which we consider less than 100 local employees. Congratulations to our 2023 Outstanding Workplace Campaign honourees!

OUTSTANDING WORKPLACE CAMPAIGN AWARD (LARGE)

The Outstanding Workplace Campaign Award acknowledges workplaces that have shown outstanding efforts in informing and engaging employees while increasing donations in a larger workplace, which we consider 100 or more local employees. Congratulations to our 2023 Outstanding Workplace honourees!