2022 UCalgary United Way campaign raises over $368,000

Did you know that one in three Calgarians don't feel they belong in their community? Or that one in 10 Calgarians live in poverty? These are just a few of many reasons why United Way works with partner agencies to ensure people have access to food, shelter, employment opportunities and a chance to stabilize their income—affording them opportunities to build a good life.

UCalgary hosts an annual fundraising campaign to support United Way in improving local lives in our community and building a better tomorrow for all. 

This year, 435 UCalgary community members donated $368,408 in much-needed funds that will improve lives in Calgary. Most staff donations came in as contributions directly from their payroll. Additionally, students, faculty, staff and volunteers organized special fundraising events such as bake sales, silent auctions, raffles, candy grams and much more.

One such special event included Chillin’ 4 Charity; an annual event organized by the JDC West team in the Haskayne School of Business. During this event, colleagues and friends got to pledge their donation and watch in support of a few brave souls who volunteered to take an icy plunge for a great cause, raising over $4,600.

Community support 

Chillin’ 4 Charity is just one of the many events that showcases the impact that the UCalgary community can have when it comes together to reach a common goal. 

Campaign co-chair and Dean of Social Work Ellen Perrault says what impresses her the most is the dedication volunteers and donors have for their community. 

The campaign wouldn’t have been possible without the many incredible volunteers who gave their time and energy. This year we saw a wonderful spirit of collaboration as many faculties and units worked on special events together. We are very grateful for each and every donor.

The partnership between the United Way and UCalgary is celebrated through this fundraising campaign every year. The United Way is an important partner for the University of Calgary and the workplace campaign is a major example of our commitment to integrate with the community we serve and lead.  

“All funds raised go to support education, employment and community supports to help address the issues of poverty, mental health and social isolation in Calgary and area,” says John Alho, associate vice-president, government relations, and co-chair for the campaign.  

“These same issues are being explored and researched across our campus and our students and faculty members often collaborate with the United Way and their local agency partners on innovative projects.” 

All funds go to the United Way of Calgary and Area and the organizations they partner with to improve the lives of Calgarians. By connecting individuals through community events, United Way provides services and support to those who are most vulnerable. When people have access to services in their communities, research shows they have a much better chance to thrive. 

Awards for outstanding campaign performance 

At the campaign wrap-up event on Tuesday, Jan. 17, several awards were presented to faculties and units that excelled in their campaigns: 

• Very Special Events Award – Haskayne School of Business 

• Leader in Leadership Giving Award – Cumming School of Medicine 

• Hard Core Award – Cumming School of Medicine 

• Mover and Shaker Award – University of Calgary International 

The final standings of the Cannon Challenge Cup were also announced during the event. The challenge was named in honour of former UCalgary President Elizabeth Cannon in recognition of her dedication to the university’s community engagement efforts. The challenge cup award is based on the amount of money raised in employee donations and special events, as well as on participation levels.

The 2022 recipient is University of Calgary International, followed closely by the Office of the Vice-President (Research) and the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning.