Thirteen members of the York University Retirees’ Association (YURA), accompanied by three University staff members, walked five kilometres around the Keele Campus on Oct. 1 to raise funds for student food support. The group has raised more than $15,000 to date through donations from fellow retirees, friends, family and former colleagues.
“Food security is an issue that an increasing number of our students face,” says Yvette Munro, vice-provost students, “and the generous support form YURA is very much appreciated.”
YURA’s five-kilometre walk was held in conjunction with the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon’s Charity Challenge, which offers registrants the option to complete their run or walk virtually. YURA believes holding this event on one of York U’s campuses helps to raise awareness about food insecurity among students and YURA’s efforts to help.
YURA’s fundraising mission this year was to assist the York Federation of Students’ Food Support Centre and the student food bank at the Glendon Campus, as well as the University’s Open Fridge and grocery gift card programs.
“Being able to contribute to alleviate food insecurity on our York campuses is very meaningful,” says Sheila Forshaw, captain of this year’s Charity Challenge team. “In the last two years, we have raised more than $36,000. I am thankful to the fundraising team and everyone who donated for their incredible support and dedication. I think we truly make a difference.”
According to YURA co-presidents Diane Woody and Steve Dranitsaris, retired York U employees contribute to the life of the University in a variety of ways. For example, YURA sponsors three graduate student awards and five undergraduate awards each year, and also provides funding for the outreach work of the York University-TD Community Engagement Centre. Many emeritus faculty remain involved in collaborative research, publication, teaching, graduate student supervision and thesis committees. York retirees often participate in the University’s public events, are regular donors and serve as ambassadors of the University in the broader community.
Online donations in support of YURA’s fundraiser for student food support can still be made – until Oct. 20 – via YURA’s Charity Challenge team fundraising website.
With files from Steve Dranitsaris