Canadian University Press Releases/Newswire

Source: McMaster University
http://dailynews.mcmaster.ca/story.cfm?id=4302

McMaster unites to kick off annual United Way campaign

October 23, 2006

More than 70 McMaster employees and students joined forces at the annual United Way 5K Run/3K Walk across campus on Friday, Oct. 20. The 3rd annual event officially launched the United Way campaign, which runs from Friday, Oct. 20 to Friday, Nov. 24.

Participants were invited back to Quarters after crossing the finish line to enjoy refreshments (generously provided by the MSU), prizes and opening remarks.

"Last year, we surpassed our goal of $160,000, raising more than $170,000," says Lisa Boniface, co-chair of this year's campaign along with Louis Schmidt. "This was achieved through the generosity of the McMaster community. Their efforts have had a positive and lasting impact on thousands of individuals and families, creating a healthier and stronger community within the Hamilton and Burlington areas."

Bob Crockford, chair of the 2006 Hamilton Leadership Team for the United Way, thanked participants and commended McMaster for its generous support and enthusiasm.

Individual letters and donation forms have been distributed to all McMaster employees, which is the first step in launching the 2006 campaign. The committee asks you to consider all of the services offered by the United Way.

United Way agencies provide such services as counselling for families in crisis, after-school programs for at-risk youth, and even reassuring telephone calls to isolated seniors. They help thousands of people to lead healthier lives and ensure a better and brighter future.

There are a number of additional events occurring on campus to assist the campaign in achieving its goal. There will be a mitten campaign, run by the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, in which people can purchase paper mittens and display them in their offices to show their support for the United Way, the annual DeGroote bake sale, which will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 31, and the annual photo with Santa campaign. Please visit McMaster's United Way website for more information.

A special thank you goes out to all those who were responsible for making the campaign launch a big success, and especially to our sponsors. If anyone is interested in co-ordinating a special event or fundraiser to contribute towards this year's campaign, please contact one of the co-chairs: Lisa Boniface at bonifac@mcmaster.ca or Louis Schmidt at schmidtl@mcmaster.ca.