May 2015 

Vol 7, Issue 5        

United Way Connects

topstory
Celebrating Impact

Each May we take a moment to celebrate the impact that United Way has had in the community. Our success is possible because Central Albertans share our belief that, when we come together, we can improve lives.

 

For 50 years United Way has been committed to creating opportunities and mobilizing resources to make a lasting difference in our community. Change is possible because of donors who contribute financially, volunteers who share their time and talents, community partners who work side-by-side with us to address social issues, and charities who deliver essential services.  

 

Thank you to all who have contributed along the way. Your gifts have been invested carefully to ensure measurable community impact.  

 
Celebrating Impact at the Parkland Mall, Red Deer

On May 7 United Way Central Alberta gathered at the Parkland Mall to celebrate the impact created by its community investments, and to announce the programs that received funding for 2015.

Almost $1.9 million was allocated to over 60 programs and projects across Central Alberta, an increase of 5.2% over 2014 investments.

This year the Wellness area opened up and five new programs were funded, with particular emphasis on short term intervention and counselling, and supporting opportunities for residents who are facing challenges to build the skills and community connections they need in order to live independently. The impact created: Healthy People, Strong Communities.

This investment in community impact was only possible because of the generous donations collected through workplace campaigns, individual donations, and fundraising events across the region.

Monica Morrison (Golden Circle), Gordon Wright (JHS),
Jennifer Vanderschaeghe (CAANS)

Read the full press release here. 

CSSA Magnificent Milestone: Celebrating 50 Years with Catholic Social Services  


Not many things last 50 years. Cars, electronics, TV shows, and fashion trends have come and gone. In Red Deer and Central Alberta, the partnership between the United Way and Catholic Social Services has lasted over five decades - a magnificent milestone.

Fifty years ago, Catholic Social Services employed a handful of staff, primarily in the areas of family and individual counselling in Red Deer. As time passed, the Agency's services expanded to include immigration settlement and programs for people with developmental disabilities. The United Way was there to provide funding as the young social services organization expanded to meet the growing demands of the region.  

Back in 1985...read more   

Read the original 1985 article. Courtesy of the Red Deer Advocate.

Co-ChairsThe City of Red Deer Adds Support for 2015 Campaign Leadership
This year the 2015 Campaign is off to a great start with a second City of Red Deer leader as Co-Campaign Chair. Joining Councillor Lynne Mulder in her second year as Co-Chair is City Manager Craig Curtis.

The City of Red Deer has had a long history of support for United Way Central Alberta. In addition to running a strong workplace campaign, employees and Councillors have taken on many volunteer leadership roles over the years. Most recently, The City partnered with United Way to bring 211 phone service to city residents for the next three years.

Read the full press release.
Lynne Mulder and Craig Curtis: 2015 Campaign Co-Chairs
Buffalo2What is Buffalo House?
On May 6th several of us staff from United Way visited the Open House at "the Buffalo." This is one of the programs that your dollars support.

The Buffalo is an old Red Deer hotel that has been converted into housing for homeless men and women. Each tenant has a private room with a bathroom, and humble though it may be, it is a safe and independent living space for those who agree to "play by the rules of the house." Lots of one-on-one support is provided by the staff to ensure tenants are directed to support services they need in order to turn their lives around. The tenants also have their own community organization and leadership that creates a forum for resolving issues or discussing new ideas.

Why does United Way support the Buffalo? Because the Buffalo provides the structure and community support people need to get to that turning point where they can begin to make changes in the conditions that led them to homelessness in the first place.

Support workers Cynthia Perreault (left) and Derrick Callan (right) with tenant Papino (centre) at the Buffalo Open House.
The Buffalo is making an impact on many lives, helping close the gap between members of the community. We were inspired to meet some of the support workers who are so passionate and care deeply about the Buffalo tenants.



Help is just a click away.  www.ab.211.ca
In This Issue

 

Celebrating Impact at the Parkland Mall, Red Deer

 

A Magnificent Milestone: 50 Years with the Catholic Social Services

         

The City of Red Deer Adds Support for 2015 Leadership

 

What is Buffalo House?

 

Photo of the Month 

 

Did you know...?   

 

Your Dollars at Work   

 

Cool 50th Anniversary Duds for Sale

 

Save the Date

 

Don't Forget   

 

Photo Of The Monthphotoofthemonth
 

What does United Way mean to you - community, caring, collaboration,compassion, connection, children, businesses, families, organizations, government, individuals, and seniors?

 

This was a Celebrating Impact attendee's offering to our giant 50th Anniversary Puzzle. 

Did you know...?  didyouknow

So far this year, the two top reasons people called 211 were for Basic Needs and help with Income Support and Employment. The top referrals were to Alberta Works - Emergency Needs Allowance. Callers also had questions about Health Care and Community Services. In the past few months, 211 operators have offered assistance to Central Albertans in English, Arabic, and Hindi.

 
Spread the Word
Spread the word about this important United Way initiative. We have cards and posters at the office that you can use to introduce clients to 211 online at www.ab.211.ca (across Central Alberta) and 211 phone service (a City of Red Deer sponsored project). Give us a call and let us know what you need: 
  (403) 343-3900 
In 2015, the Butt Ugly program continues to be supported by United Way Central Alberta. Have you paid a visit to their website? Scroll down to view the video. It is very interesting.

   
Cool_DudsCool 50th Anniversary Duds for Sale
To celebrate our 50th anniversary, United Way Central Alberta is offering some very nice branded outerwear for sale. Only the best quality is being offered.

If you're a United Way fan, you might want to acquire a piece of this limited edition finery!

getinvolvedSave the Date
Note these special dates in your calendar.

UWCA 50th AGM
Thursday, June 18, 2015
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Location: Pidherney Centre

CAMPAIGN KICK OFF LUNCHEON
Thursday, September 10, 2015
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Location: Sheraton Hotel

5th ANNUAL SCOTCH CLASSIC
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Starts at 5:30
Location: Pidherney Centre

dontforgetDon't Forget ...
Round Up!
It's just one of the many easy ways you can help your community.

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