Left to Right: Faculty Co-chair Mike von Massow, Assistant Vice-President (Graduate Studies) Ben Bradshaw, U of G President Charlotte Yates

The University of Guelph’s annual United Way campaign launched today, kicking off a three-month-long effort to raise $575,000 for this important local charity.

Leading this year’s campaign are staff co-chair Elaine Fenner and faculty co-chair Mike von Massow.

“I’m proud of the role that U of G has historically played in supporting our local community through the United Way,” says Fenner. In 2021, U of G raised more than $518,000 to support the United Way. “The University plays a critical role in the local economy, and our giving is a cornerstone of the annual campaign.”

The 2022 campaign opened officially with a food truck party in Branion Plaza. A portion of sales from the food trucks will be donated to the University’s campaign. The event featured live music and remarks from president Charlotte Yates.

“Local community engagement is in the DNA of U of G,” said Yates. “I’m very proud of the special partnership we have with the United Way.”

Complete a pledge card for your chance to win

Online pledge cards are available through the U of G United Way website. Individuals who complete an online pledge card are entered into weekly Incentive Prize Draws for prizes from campus and community partners.

Weekly prizes include passes to Hillside and Riverfest, gift certificates and gift baskets from local restaurants and breweries, passes for rounds of golf, and fresh produce. The earlier you complete your pledge card, the more chances you have to win.

Left to Right: Staff Co-Chair Elaine Fenner, United Way Executive Director Glenna Banda, U of G Campaign Volunteer Heidi Muller

The annual campaign also includes a grand prize draw featuring:

  • A $500 RRSP from TD Canada Trust
  • Registration/tuition fee for one course in Continuing Education at U of G (maximum value $750) from Open Learning and Educational Support
  • U of G one-year parking pass (valid May 2023 to April 2024) from Sustainable Transportation and Parking Services

Fenner and von Massow are enthusiastic about the return to an in-person campaign.

“Our faculty, staff and students raised an outstanding amount of money over the past two years when almost all of our fundraising was done through online events,” says Fenner. “We’ve missed being together as a community. I’m looking forward to the face-to-face events that make our campaign so special.”

This year’s campaign runs from Sept. 20 to Dec. 16. Learn more about U of G’s United Way campaign online.