For 20 years, Niagara College has supported the United Way in its mission to provide vital community programs and services for Niagara residents in need.
On March 25, the charitable organization recognized NC for its commitment with a Longstanding Community Service Award, presented to an organization that has demonstrated exceptional support of United Way for a significant period of time.
“With many decades of support, Niagara College continues to show an outstanding level of commitment to United Way and serving our community,” said Frances Hallworth, executive director, United Way Niagara. “Through significant participation by employees in their annual giving campaign and numerous special events, Niagara College plays a large role in driving United Way’s mission forward and for that, we are so grateful.”
NC president Sean Kennedy accepted the award from Hallworth, along with NC Cares United Way workplace campaign co-chairs Michele O’Keefe (associate director, Athletics and Recreation) and Shelley Panetta (associate director, Marketing).
“Niagara College is honoured to be recognized by an organization that plays such as critical role in supporting so many individuals, families and healthier communities across Niagara,” said Kennedy. “At Niagara College we are deeply connected to our community and our partnership with United Way allows us to make a positive impact at the local level.”
Through personal donations and a variety of events and initiatives – including trivia nights, cut-a-thons, poinsettia sales, casual dress days, prize raffles and many more – NC employees have gone the extra mile to raise over $800,000 for the United Way since 1991.
Most recently, NC’s 2020 United Way workplace campaign was adapted to raise funds virtually in light of the pandemic. During the campaign, NC employees not only continued their support they also set a new record for the college, raising $45,900 and demonstrating the NC DNA – the college’s welcoming, passionate and trailblazing characteristics.
“Our last workplace campaign was a testament to the caring and compassionate nature of the NC community,” said O’Keefe. “In true NC fashion, employees and committee members stepped up to support the important work of the United Way during an especially critical time.”
“We look forward to launching our next workplace campaign later this year to continue the college’s legacy of giving,” said Panetta. “United Way makes a profound impact for those in need in our communities and we are proud to do our part.”
The United Way, which raises funds to help tackle critical issues including domestic violence, social isolation, homelessness, mental illness, food insecurity and poverty, has recognized NC’s efforts in the past. In 2015, NC received the Workplace Campaign of the Year Award from United Way of South Niagara and in 2013, the College earned a platinum award for its workplace campaign, which was recognized as the second-best public sector campaign that year.
We are proud to present @niagaracollege with the 2020 Longstanding Community Service Award. Congratulations!
Read about all the 2020 award winners here: t.co/3swESeqq5V pic.twitter.com/74VjFZVg9b— United Way Niagara (@UWNiagara) April 15, 2021
