We are excited for the return of the NC Cares ‘Donor Spotlight’ series. The series features brief interviews with some of our NC donors about why they support the College’s United Way workplace campaign. Everyone’s reason for giving is unique, often personal, but all are connected by a common thread – to help others in need.
The following is the first spotlight featuring Vanessa Levay, professor, School of Nursing and PSW.
As a supporter of NC’s workplace campaign, what inspires you to give to the United Way?
I am motivated to give back to my community and was raised to be socially responsible. Since I was young, my mother taught me the value of thinking of others and helping out where possible.
I have been donating to United Way for the past 20 years through my various workplaces. United Way was the charity of choice when I worked for Niagara Region Public Health and since working for Niagara College, I have continued that commitment. When I am at a local retailer in Niagara and they ask “Would you like to donate to United Way?” I’m proud my answer has always been “I already donate through my workplace deductions.” I since have passed on the value of giving back to my own daughter, who has donated her birthday parties in lieu of gifts to United Way since she was two years old.
Do you have a special connection to the United Way?
Yes. I served on the United Way committee as a champion for the workplace at my previous role at Niagara Region Public Health. I was also an original member who worked on GenNEXT United Way committee in Niagara. My mother was a single mom, raising me on her own financially, and I always think back to the programs she had to tap into to be able to support us.
In your view, what is the most important work of the United Way?
The most important work the United Way does is ensure that money donated goes directly to those in need in Niagara from all ages/stages, and it’s very diverse in terms of what they provide across the Region. I think it is one of the most comprehensive and far-reaching charities.
Why is supporting the United Way important to you?
I feel it is important because United Way truly understands the needs of our residents in Niagara. It is not a one and done or a one-off type of campaign/donation. There are a lot of needs assessments and listening to lived experiences to ensure the money they collect is impactful.
If you were to share a message with colleagues who may be thinking of donating, what would you say?
Every little bit helps. A cup of coffee we might buy daily could be money spent on helping that single mother just like mine. I have seen firsthand how donations support our community. We can make a collective impact, united and together.
It is all our responsibility to take care of our community. The payroll deduction makes it manageable and simplifies the process. Sign up today!
It’s not too late to give to the 2023 NC Cares United Way workplace campaign, which runs through December 8. Donations can be made through NC’s online payroll deduction portal or United’s Way’s online form. Watch for more NC community-hosted fundraising initiatives supporting the campaign this fall.
