To continue a long-standing tradition that supports the greater community, York University will launch its 2015 York Cares United Way Campaign on Nov. 3 with a goal of raising $220,000.
The 2015 York Cares United Way Campaign kicks off on Nov. 3
Each year, the York U community comes together in support of the United Way, and last year the annual York Cares campaign raised $218,900 to support social services across the city.
Funds raised through the campaign benefit important local agencies and programs – some of which impact York U’s programs and students directly.
“York University has a long history of supporting and working with the United Way and we would like to continue that tradition with the same enthusiasm that is representative of this dynamic institution,” says Jeff O’Hagan, vice-president Advancement and a Leadership co-Chair of the campaign along with Provost Rhonda Lenton and Dean Lorne Sossin.
The United Way Toronto and York Region is the largest private-sector supporter of social services in Toronto. It comes as the result of a recent amalgamation between United Way Toronto and United Way York Region.
Jeff O’Hagan, vice-president Advancement and a leadership co-chair of the campaign, with York U President and Vice-Chancellor Mamdouh Shoukri
Its work is fueled by groundbreaking research and powerful partnerships, which allows it to identify gaps and responsibly mobilize volunteer and financial resources for the most direct impact: effecting positive and lasting change, right here where we all live, work and raise our families.
This year, another exciting initiative through the York Cares campaign is a grant challenge that will match all new leadership donations and leadership donation increases. Learn more about this, and the ways you can get involved, here.
Special events to support the campaign will take place across campus through the month of November, including:
- Campaign Kick-off: The President’s Pancake Breakfast
Nov. 3, 8 to 10am, Central Square
The President along with the Leadership Chairs and other members of the University senior leadership will make pancakes for hungry students, faculty and staff. Join in as we celebrate the start of the 2015 campaign. - CN Tower Climb
Nov. 7, 6 to 10am, CN Tower
Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in the Student Climb on Saturday, Nov. 7. Show off your York U spirit by joining the Student Rally immediately following the climb.
Check out the YFile article for more information, and visit the website to join the York U team or register your own (please include ‘YorkU’ in the title of your team so we can celebrate your accomplishments at the top.) - Pledge Drive
Nov. 3 to 25
This is the most important element of the campaign, with 95 per cent of donations come from the Pledge Drive. This year we are aiming for a 10 per cent participation rate overall and each department/unit will be competing for the coveted “York Cares Participation Challenge” trophy. Get your donation in early and qualify to win a fantastic prize. - Schulich-Palooza
Nov. 25, 11:30am to 2pm, Robert McEwen Auditorium, Schulich School of Business
This pizza luncheon will signal a wrap-up to the campaign and will feature diverse talent from Schulich’s students, faculty and staff. Rock bands, vocalists, dancers, comedy performances and much more will be showcased.
York U faculty, staff and students are encouraged to get engaged in the campaign by joining in at one of the events being held on campus, by volunteering as a Campaign Ambassador or by organizing your own special event in your area. Contact the campaign for more details at yucares@yorku.ca.
To learn more about how to get involved in the 2015 York Cares United Way Campaign, visit the York Cares website.