Peterborough, ON [Thursday March 12, 2026] — With the finish line in sight for this year’s community campaign, United Way Peterborough & District delivered its latest campaign update from an unexpected place: the rooftop of a downtown Peterborough building.
Standing above the crowd gathered below, Paul Rellinger, the 2025 Campaign Chair, addressed the community from the roof of Twohey Home and Long & McQuade Musical Instruments, reviving a visual many in Peterborough will remember from his past “Relly on the Roof” fundraiser. Fifteen years ago, in the spring of 2011, Rellinger launched the first “Relly on the Roof” fundraiser, a rooftop campaign that supported United Way Peterborough & District and quickly became a memorable local tradition.
Today’s moment was symbolic. With just weeks remaining in the campaign, United Way announced it is now 4% away from its $1.6 million goal, with $61,000 left to raise before March 31.
The rooftop appearance was meant to represent the final push needed to bring the campaign across the finish line.
“We’re incredibly proud of what this community has already accomplished,” said Jim Russell, CEO of United Way Peterborough & District, speaking from the safety of the ground below. “This campaign reflects the generosity and commitment of people across Peterborough and the county. When we come together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbours.”
Throughout the campaign year, volunteers, workplaces, and individual donors have supported the campaign, helping raise critical funds for programs that address poverty, food insecurity, housing instability, mental health, and social isolation across the region.
From the rooftop, Rellinger thanked the community for its support and issued a final appeal: “Many people in this community will remember when I spent time on rooftops raising money for local causes,” said Rellinger. “I never expected to be back up here again, but when you’re this close to your goal, you are willing to go to great heights to finish the job.”
Rellinger emphasized that the final dollars raised will help ensure local programs supported by United Way can continue to meet growing demand in the community.
“We’re just $61,000 away from our goal,” he said. “That final 4 percent represents real support for people in our community who need it most. If you’ve been thinking about giving, now is the time to help us cross the finish line.”
Funds raised through United Way Peterborough & District stay local, supporting a network of 20 community organizations and programs that provide essential services to individuals and families throughout Peterborough and the surrounding region.
With the campaign deadline approaching on March 31, United Way is encouraging community members to help raise the final funds needed to complete what has already been a remarkable year of collective giving.
“This campaign shows what is possible when a community comes together,” said Russell. “Now we’re asking everyone to help us bring it home.”
Community members can learn more or make a donation by visiting https://www.uwpeterborough.ca/
