The Northumberland United Way is looking to raise $875,000 over the coming campaign year, while also expanding one of its major community initiatives into Trent Hills.
The new campaign goal was announced during the United Way’s campaign breakfast in Cobourg last Tuesday.
Executive Director Alicia Vandine says the organization surpassed its previous $750,000 target, raising $851,487.
She says the new goal comes as the organization sees more need in the community, including financial anxiety and increased demand at food banks.
Vandine says the United Way’s work depends on support from individual donors, businesses, workplace campaigns and other community partners.
She says contributions can take a variety of forms, from individual donations to fundraising events.
Day of Caring coming to Trent Hills
The United Way is also preparing for a new Day of Caring in Trent Hills on October 23.
The event has been held in West Northumberland for 27 years, with volunteers helping local organizations complete projects they may not otherwise have the time or resources to tackle.
This year’s Trent Hills event will focus on light projects, including outdoor work, leaf gathering and painting.
Local non-profit and volunteer organizations in Trent Hills that would like to have a project considered are being encouraged to contact the United Way as soon as possible.
The Trent Hills event is expected to be smaller than the established West Northumberland Day of Caring.
Vandine says organizers are looking at approximately 10 to 20 projects and are hoping to involve at least 50 volunteers.
Volunteers will be provided breakfast before heading out to their projects, followed by a barbecue afterward.
Anyone interested in getting involved with the United Way can contact the organization at 905-372-6955 and ask for Joe Godin, who is coordinating the campaign and community events.
The organization also directs people to its website, mynuw.org, for additional information.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
