Trent University’s faculty, staff and retirees came together to help smash the University’s previous records for both fundraising goal and total funds raised for the annual United Way campaign, raising $103,400 for those in need locally.

“Each year, I’m blown away by the Trent community’s response to our United Way campaign. Building on the success of last year’s $77,000 record-breaking campaign, we posted a challenge to go even further and raise $80,000 this year,” said Julie Davis, vice-president, External Relations & Advancement at Trent University, and education sector chair of the United Way cabinet. “I’m always impressed by the commitment our retirees, faculty and staff show to the Peterborough region, and I’m proud of the role Trent plays in supporting our community.”

Launched in October with a kick-off BBQ, Trent’s United Way campaign was supported by many employee-led special events, including a chili cook-off, white elephant tables, and a gift basket raffle before the holidays. These special events were paired with donations from retirees and employees.

“Trent University’s 2017 campaign achievement is both humbling and awe inspiring. The leadership and commitment of this organization is a shining example of indefatigable spirit to build community,” said Jim Russell, CEO, United Way of Peterborough and District. “We congratulate the Trent University community on this accomplishment.”

Trent’s campaign committee is made up of Linda Smith, staff co-chair, Dr. Susan Wurtele, faculty co-chair, Kathy Fife, retiree co-chair, and Alison Scholl, campaign coordinator. Trent University was also well represented in the United Way cabinet. In addition to Ms. Davis, recent Trent alumna Dorcas Mensah filled the youth ambassador position; Marcus Harvey, executive director of the Trent University Faculty Association, served as the cabinet’s Labour representative; while this year’s campaign chair, Neil Morton ’89 and vice-chair, Robert Gauvreau ’01, are both Trent alumni.

Trent University has supported the United Way since 1965 and has raised more than $1.9 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.