It’s never too late to support the United Way

This year’s UVic United Way campaign got off to a strong start in October, and there is still time to donate and show your support at upcoming campus fundraising events.

“Thank you to those of you who have already made your pledge. All of us leading the campaign this year are so grateful for your generosity, and we are well on our way to this year's goal,” says UVic campaign chair Mary Ellen Purkis. "Of course it is never too late to pledge. We will be happy to continue to accept pledges in the weeks ahead." Donors in November will be eligible for some exciting last-minute prizes.

As of Nov. 1, the campaign had raised $167,177—56 per cent of this year’s goal—from a total of 301 donors and special events. The annual Bug Push event, organized by the Engineering Students’ Society, brought in $700 in pledges and donations while the Plasma Car Races netted $3,742 from team pledges and raffle tickets.

Don’t miss the 18th annual United Way Book and Record Sale coordinated by UVic Libraries, on Friday, Nov. 16 and Saturday, Nov. 17 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the SUB’s Michèle Pujol Room. Support the United Way of Greater Victoria by purchasing donated books and records, all sorted by volunteers from UVic and the community.

On Nov. 20 in the University Centre lobby, find unique, handmade gifts at the annual Hearts & Hands Craft Fair. Talented artisans from the UVic community will offer a wide range of crafts for sale. Look for roving raffle ticket sellers in advance, or buy tickets at the fair for a chance to win gift baskets full of vendors’ handicrafts or a large photographic print.

The wrap-up event of the 2012 campaign will be That Chemistry Show, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. at the Bob Wright Centre, room A150. Chemistry professor Dr. Alexandre Brolo will serve up mad science and cool tricks to delight kids of all ages. Tickets ($9.75) are available in advance at the UVic Ticket Centre or at the door.

For more details or to donate: www.uvic.ca/unitedway