February 2015 

Vol 7, Issue 2      


United Way Connects

 topstory
50 Years Strong

It's exciting to think about how many lives we have impacted and improved over the last 50 years. 

 

Alongside an amazing group of volunteers, United Way has stood the test of time as a vital organization  supporting social services in Central Alberta. Where once we were simply a fundraising machine, we are now a Community Impact Organization helping to address the root causes of challenges that face our community. We don't give a hand out, but we do give a hand up.

 

As we move through our 50th year, we can't wait to share with you more stories and pictures from our past. If you have any stories or photos you would like to share with us, please e-mail info@caunitedway.ca - we'd love to hear from you!

 

secondstory211 Phone Service Comes To Red Deer   

On February 26, 2015 the United Way of Central Alberta launched the new 211 phone service for Red Deer, made possible through the generous support of The City of
Red Deer.

 

211 online helps Central Alberta residents navigate the complex array of community, social, government and health services in order to find the specific support they need. The phone service is an important addition to the online presence because it gives people in Red Deer 24/7 multilingual access, not only to in-depth information about programs and agencies, but also to the kind of human support that only a friendly voice on the other end of the line can provide. This is especially important in times of emergency or crisis. 

 

Hopefully the City of Red Deer's example will inspire other Central Alberta municipalities to add their support so that all Central Albertans have equal access to 211 services.


Read the full press release  here. 

Mayor Tara Veer makes the first 211 call from Red Deer.
fourthstory
What A Difference A Helping Hand Can Make 

After completing a diploma at Red Deer College, Stephanie* was looking forward to beginning a job in her field, and had applied for a position that interested her with a local company.  

However, she encountered a major obstacle: the employer stated that applicants must have a driver's license, and she is unable to get one because she has epilepsy. Stephanie was afraid that she would not be hired if she did not comply with or questioned the requirement.

Fortunately, the Program Coordinator of the Epilepsy Association was able to advocate on Stephanie's behalf, and succeeded in getting the requirement waived. With a helping hand from a supportive professional, Stephanie is now employed in her chosen profession, and feels hopeful about her future.

 

*name has been changed

 

 gotacar
Got a car that's on its last legs? Donate it to United Way!  
Is this winter your car's last? Before you sell or scrap, consider donating it to United Way of Central Alberta (UWCA). Donate a Car Canada is an easy way to dispose of your used RV, truck or car. They make all the arrangements for you: pick up, resale or recycle, and remit the net proceeds to United Way of Central Alberta. UWCA will then issue you a tax receipt. The money funneled through your donation is another way to help your community.

You can Donate a Car to UWCA online, or phone 1-877-250-4904 for assistance.

 

 



Help is just a click away. 
www.ab.211.ca
In This Issue
photoofthemonthPhoto Of The Month


October, 1965
- The first campaign for the newly formed Red Deer and District United Fund. $28,050 is equal to $210,037 in 2015 dollars.
didyouknowDid you know...?
As a non-profit organization, one of the questions we get asked most often is, "What is your administration cost?"

I hope this video gets people asking more often, "What is the impact you are having in Central Alberta?"

 


People with epilepsy and families affected by epilepsy have many questions, fears and concerns about what a diagnosis of epilepsy might mean in their lives. $100 provides one-to-one professional support, encouragement, acceptance and hope. $250 enables people affected by epilepsy to meet together for a session of sharing, mutual support, skill and knowledge building.

 

getinvolved
Save the Date
Note these special dates in your calendar.

 

LEADERSHIP APPRECIATION
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Stay tuned for details.

CELEBRATING IMPACT
Thursday, May 7, 2015
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Location: Pidherney Centre

UWCA 50th AGM
Thursday, June 18, 2015
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Location TBA. Please check back.

dontforget
Don't Forget ...
Round Up!



It's just one of the many easy ways you can help your community.