United Way of Central Alberta kicks off 60th annual fundraising campaign

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The campaign runs from the beginning of September until right around Christmas. She explained they will also have some other fundraising events throughout the winter.

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Those funds raised by December will be distributed by United Way to different programs across central Alberta that specifically go towards increasing access to basic needs and mental health, among others. United Way also has its own programming such as Period Promise and Tools for School.

“It supports all of the work that happens right here in our region with a 100 per cent local focus,” she said. “Over 34,000 people, children, seniors, and families have been impacted by our programming in a positive way in the last year.”

Right around the corner is United Way’s Kickoff 5K Run at Heritage Ranch on Sunday, Sept. 21 followed by the 14th annual Whisky Classic on Nov. 20 at the Holiday Inn South. There will also be plenty of volunteer opportunities, essential basic needs drives, and other workplace fundraising initiatives throughout the fall.

United Way of Central Alberta reported that over 38,860 central Albertans live with low or limited income. In addition, one in five people will face a mental health challenge this year and 17 per cent of children and youth live in poverty.

Those in attendance also heard from United Way client ambassadors Kenzie and Josie from the Ponoka Youth Centre Boys and Girls Club of Wolf Creek youth impact program shared their story.

Kenzie, a Grade 7 student in Ponoka, and Josie, her mentor, have spent the last four years together building a friendship and getting to know one another.

Some of the many activities the pair like to do together include building Lego and making jewellery. They spend about an hour a week, and each year lay out their goals and dreams and try to achieve them.

“One thing I already know is that our friendship will keep growing,” Josie said. “Mentoring has been a rewarding experience for me. No matter what kind of day I’m having, Kenzie’s energy and bright smile remind me why these connections matter so much.”

“I love spending time with Josie. She makes me feel important and she’s fun, kind, and confident. Sometimes she brings me treats, my favourite is a chocolate glazed donut from Tim Horton’s,” Kenzie added.