Trent University’s faculty, staff and retirees came together to help shatter the University’s fundraising goal for the annual United Way campaign, raising a record-breaking $114,328 for those in need locally.

“We really challenged our faculty, staff and retiree’s by setting a $100,000 goal for the 2018 campaign – our highest ever,” said Julie Davis, vice-president, External Relations & Advancement. “Trent University’s annual campaign is the largest corporate campaign in the community and it’s an important way for us to give back and support the Peterborough region.”

Launched in October with a kick-off BBQ, faculty, staff and retirees gave generously through payroll pledges and donations. Trent’s United Way campaign was also supported by many employee-led special events, including a chili cook-off, white elephant tables, and a gift basket raffle before the holidays.

“Trent University’s 2018 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 Ashely Horne, staff co-chair, Dr. Susan Wurtele, faculty co-chair, Linda Smith, retiree co-chair, and Alison Scholl, campaign coordinator. Marcus Harvey, executive director of the Trent University Faculty Association, served as the United Way cabinet’s Labour representative.

Trent University has supported the United Way since 1965 and has raised more than $2 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.