Faculty, staff and retirees at Trent University met the challenge to support those in need in our community, surpassing the University’s highest-ever fundraising target for the annual United Way campaign and raising $77,000.

“We set an ambitious goal of $75,000 to recognize the 75^th anniversary of the Peterborough United Way and I am so proud of the response from the Trent community,” said Julie Davis, vice-president, External Relations & Advancement at Trent University, and member of the United Way Cabinet. “We believe strongly in giving back to our community, and the United Way is just one of the many ways our staff and faculty engage with our neighbours and support Peterborough.”

The money was raised through donations and a variety of on-campus special events and will stay in our community to provide assistance to a variety of organizations. Launched in October with a kick-off BBQ, the United Way campaign was supported by many employee-led special events, including a Chili Cook-Off, Blue Jay Jersey Day, white elephant tables, and basket raffles at department holiday gatherings.

“It’s incredible to see the dedication and creativity of our retirees, faculty, staff and unions as they come up with different ways to help us meet our target. Trent’s OPSEU Local 365 members hosted a raffle at their holiday party and the Trent University Faculty Union launched a matching campaign for faculty donations,” said Linda Smith, staff co-chair of the Trent United Way committee. “Trent has supported the United Way since 1965 and it’s a tradition we are keen to continue.”

In addition to Ms. Smith, Trent’s campaign committee is made up of Kathy Fife, retiree co-chair, Dr. Susan Wurtele, faculty co-chair, and Alison Scholl, campaign coordinator.

Trent University has supported the United Way since 1965 and has raised more than $1.8 million for the organization. The United Way is a community-based, not-for-profit umbrella organization that distributes donations to a number of local agencies and supports programs and services in Peterborough City and County, helping move those in need from poverty to possibility.