With planning well underway for the launch of NC’s 2023 United Way workplace campaign on Tuesday, October 3, Niagara College is thrilled to introduce this year’s campaign Co-Chairs: Ali Weir and Becky Sciliberto.
Ali Weir, an NC alumna, brings with her nearly 12 years of experience at the College. She currently holds the role of Co-op Career and Employer Relations Consultant within Career Services, focusing on Environmental and Horticultural students. In addition to this role, Ali also teaches within the School of Business Management.
Becky Sciliberto, with over 12 years of dedicated service at the College, serves as the Compliance & Reporting Project Manager for the Global Engagement division at NC.
In their role as campaign Co-Chairs, the pair will provide leadership and guidance to the NC Cares Campaign Committee, which includes setting this year’s campaign goals, coordinating activities, and liaising with United Way Niagara. Together with the Campaign Committee, their role as Co-Chair is also responsible for inspiring and motivating colleagues to get involved and contribute to the campaign.
Ali and Becky took time to answer a few questions about their motivation and commitment to this year’s campaign.
You both said yes to be this year’s campaign co-chair of the NC Cares United Way workplace campaign. Why is it important to you to volunteer for this important role?
Ali: The United Way makes such an impact in our community and the money we raise through NC alone is enough to make a difference for hundreds of families.
Becky: Being the campaign Co-Chair is important to me for a few key reasons. First and foremost, I believe in the mission and impact of the United Way in our community and love the fact that our contributions make a 100% local impact. Secondly, as someone who is connected to the Niagara Region and Niagara College for many years, volunteering provides me an opportunity to give back to the community that has given so much to me personally and to our organization. It’s a chance to contribute my time, skills, and energy towards creating positive change.
What area of United Way Niagara’s work is especially meaningful to you?
Ali: Programs for kids including Backpacks for Kids, After School Matters recreational and leisure activities and helping those with food insecurity. The money we raised last year was able to provide 1,000 students with nutritious food at school which is vital for their physical and academic well-being. As a mom running from activity to activity, I see the crucial role in the development and well-being that after-school activities can play in a child’s growth. It allows them to develop a variety of skills, provide social and emotional growth, exploration and creativity, and overall health and wellness. The United Way’s After School Matters program provides access to such activities.
Becky: Personally, I find all United Way Niagara’s work to be meaningful because they address a wide range of critical invisible barrier issues, from poverty alleviation to mental health support, to food insecurity and homelessness. This year, their campaign focuses on the premise that countless individuals behind closed doors are struggling with issues that we cannot see.
One aspect of their impact that truly resonates with me is their commitment to addressing food insecurity. Shockingly, more than 75,000 people in our community battle with food insecurity each year. The United Way tackles this in an ambitious way through investment in community kitchens, school meal programs, food distribution initiatives, and promotion community gardens. I’m proud to say that NC we have a community garden at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus!
As co-chair, what do you hope to achieve this campaign?
Ali: As the co-chair, I am hoping to enhance awareness amongst staff and faculty and showcase that their donation – any contribution – can go a long way to making a difference in our community. I’d like to see more of our colleagues get involved in the campaign whether it’s a recurring payroll contribution, a one-time donation, showing support at one of the events, or even spreading information about the impact of the campaign.
Becky: I hope to achieve record-high participation from Niagara College employees! Additionally, I hope to increase awareness about the United Way’s mission and the impact it has in our region.
What are you most excited about for this year’s campaign?
Ali: This year, we are taking a new approach to the campaign launch day as well as information sharing. Our launch day will have a physical presence at both campuses. We invite our NC community to visit our NC Cares booths and to chat with us about this year’s campaign and how they can make an impact.
Becky: I am excited about the idea of witnessing the generosity and compassion of the Niagara College community firsthand. It’s always heartwarming to see how individuals come together to support those in need, and I’m eager to be part of that collective effort.
What are the best ways the NC employees can get involved and support this year’s campaign?
Ali:
- Sign up for payroll deduction – even if it is a one-time donation.
- Visit our booths on launch day and get to know your UW Campaign committee.
- Participate in a variety of initiatives that will be showcased throughout this year’s campaign.
- Organize a fundraising initiative in your department.
- Spread the word.
Becky: Every contribution, no matter how big or small, makes a meaningful difference. There are numerous ways that Niagara College employees can get involved and support this year’s campaign:
- Financial contributions: Donating directly to the campaign is one of the most effective ways to support United Way Niagara’s work. Employees can make one-time donations or set up payroll deductions for convenient giving. For more information on how to do this, please visit our NC Cares Website.
- Advocate: Be an advocate for the campaign. Encourage colleagues to participate and spread the word about the importance of supporting United Way Niagara.
- Share stories: Share personal stories or experiences related to United Way’s work and its impact. Authentic stories can inspire others to get involved and contribute. If you’re interested in sharing a story, please reach out your 2023 Co-Chairs.
If you have any questions about NC’s United Way Workplace campaign or how to get involved, please contact Ali and Becky:
- Ali Weir: [email protected]
- Becky Sciliberto: [email protected]
2023 NC Cares Committee Members include:
Becky Sciliberto (Co-Chair), Ali Weir (Co-Chair), Jennifer Murphy, Gary Torraville, Michele O’Keefe, Shelley Panetta, Jennifer Babin, Lindsey Hendriks, Stephanie Ireland, Leah Neamtu, Nimisha Sumathi and Rachel Brown.
