Campaign sets up for slam dunk

The 2017 UVic United Way campaign officially kicked off at a special Vikes Nation event in the CARSA Performance Gym on Friday, Sept. 29 at the Guy Vetrie men’s basketball tournament. A thousand fans cheered on the Vikes, learned more about United Way and raised almost $200 for the campaign through raffle ticket sales.

“I’m proud of UVic’s strong support for United Way Greater Victoria, and would like to sincerely thank all our current volunteers and donors,” says Cedric Littlewood, campaign chair and associate dean of graduate studies.

“I encourage all faculty and staff to consider giving to United Way this year and becoming an Everyday Hero or New Hero. United Way Greater Victoria funds more than 100 community programs, improving the lives of more than 111,000 people in our region.”

Since 1994, UVic workplace campaigns have raised more than $4.5 million, including more than $258,000 in 2016. The 2017 fundraising goal is $275,000, and there are many ways you can support the campaign.

It’s easier than ever to make a continuous or one-time donation online through the United Way Greater Victoria e-pledge site. Simply follow the instructions, and in a matter of minutes, you can change a life with your gift. If you’re already donating through payroll deduction you can increase your pledge by visiting the e-pledge site.

Supporting the campaign can be as easy and fun as attending the many campus fundraising events. These include the Plasmacar Race on Nov. 7, Holiday Artisans Market on Nov. 21, the ongoing Book Sale in the UVic Bookstore foyer and many more! Donations of good quality used books are being accepted at the Main Loan Desk in the McPherson Library until Dec. 1. Annual student-led events include the Bug Push and Chillin’ for Charity.

Visit uvic.ca/unitedway/events for details and follow us on Twitter. If you are interested in promoting United Way or hosting an event in support of the campaign in your unit, please contact the campaign assistant at unitedway@uvic.ca. To learn more about United Way and the impact of your donations, visit uwgv.ca.