socastcmsRssStart88.7 myFM News staffsocastcmsRssEnd
United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington has set a record goal of $4,085,000 for its 2025 fall fundraising campaign, marking the charity’s 85th annual drive.
This years campaign is being chaired by Leanne O’Mara. She told us she’s working with an incredible group of Cabinet Leaders.
This years target is $135,000 higher than last year, reflecting growing needs in the community. The announcement came during the campaign kickoff breakfast on Friday, September 5, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton on Princess Street for the first time since 2019. Nearly 500 community members attended.
United Way KFL&A CEO John DiPaolo shared with us his reaction to this years goal.
Special guests at the launch breakfast included Kingston and the Islands MP Mark Garretson, who had this thank you message.
City of Kingston Mayor Bryan Paterson commented that the many people and organizations who back the campaign, understand how important the work is.
Greater Napanee Mayor Terry Richardson acknowledged “we’re watching a crisis unfold before our eyes” when it comes to homelessness.
Funds raised will support local programs that help people in vulnerable situations.
CEO DiPaolo shared told us how many local agencies they support.
More than 61 per cent of donations come through workplace campaigns. Chair O’Mara says businesses plan events such as BBQs, bake sales, and employee giving drives.
This year’s campaign will be boosted by several matching challenges. The Britton Smith Foundation is renewing its Leadership Challenge Grant, matching first-time leadership donations of $1,200 or more. Returning donors who increase their gifts by at least 10 per cent will also see their support matched. A Women United Challenge Grant, donated by Judith Gould, will match leadership-level gifts from women.
A new Friends of United Way Challenge Grant, provided by Alliance Security and Communications, will match first-time gifts between $500 and $1,199 by 50 per cent.
The campaign runs until Nov. 27, 2025.
Written by Emily Chatwood with files from Alyssa Brush
