Trent University’s faculty, staff and retirees came together to exceed the University’s previous records for both fundraising goal and total funds raised for the annual United Way campaign, raising $132,028 for those in need locally.

“This year, the Trent United Way committee set an ambitious fundraising goal of $125,000 – our largest yet by far. I’m overjoyed by the Trent community’s response to our campaign,” said Alison Scholl, manager, Community Relations and United Way campaign coordinator. “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.”

Trent’s campaign launched in October with a kick-off BBQ, and 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, the Trent University Faculty Union, CUPE 3908 and OPSEU Local 365.

“Trent set an inspiring goal this year and that they blew past it is amazing. We are thrilled with the dedication and leadership provided by the employees at Trent,” said Jim Russell, CEO, United Way of Peterborough & District. “We are so grateful to the Trent University community.”

Trent’s campaign committee is made up of Linda Smith, retiree co-chair, Dr. Susan Wurtele and Marcus Harvey, faculty co-chairs, Adele Devlin and Debbie Lietz, staff co-chairs. Marcus Harvey, executive director of the Trent University Faculty Association, also served as the United Way campaign cabinet’s Labour representative.

Trent University has been a long-time supporter of the United Way dating back to 1965 and has raised more than $2 million for the organization, and is the largest corporate sponsor in the region. 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.