United Way Campaign Kicks into High Gear with “Donate on the GO”

For Immediate Release

November 17, 2005

AJAX, ON - United Way of Ajax-Pickering-Uxbridge is tailoring its program to today’s busy commuter.  As the campaign kicks into high gear to reach its $1.9 million campaign goal, it is targeting commuters at the GO Stations.  United Way staff and volunteers will be available at the Ajax and Pickering GO Stations on November 23rd, 28th and 29th both for the morning (7:30 am – 9:00 am) and evening (4:00 pm to 6:30 pm) commuters to provide information and to collect donations.

John Wiersma, the 2005 United Way Campaign Chair, says it is only natural that donating on the GO is the way to reach more donors.  People pick up their morning coffee on the GO and what better way to consider how you can do something for the betterment of your community than over a cup of coffee.

“Involving more donors and asking existing donors to give 10% more are the key elements to reaching this year’s target,” says Wiersma.  “With some $500,000 raised to date, the campaign still has a long way to go to achieve its goal by year end.

“We are getting excellent support from the municipalities and large corporations and their employees, but increased efforts from every sector are needed to reach this year’s target.  We need to get everyone engaged in this campaign to deliver those essential dollars to agencies that are committed to making life a little better for those most vulnerable in our community,” he says.

According to Wiersma “It is everybody’s business to show compassion to those whose lives are shattered, the kids who need encouragement, the homeless, the seniors and the endless list of others who need our help.  Most of that work is accomplished by an army of volunteers.  That is precisely why every dollar provides so much good will.”

Several of the large corporations and their employees are already in the Christmas Spirit outgiving last years targets, but each citizen and each business needs to make this a priority so that all people in this community can look forward to a brighter time ahead.  It is definitely something to consider this Christmas Season to give a gift to the United Way and make someone else’s Christmas a little bit better.

Wiersma has a passion for the campaign and believes strongly that every person can contribute to make the community a better place to live.  You can help by sending your donation to the United Way of Ajax-Pickering-Uxbridge, 230 Westney Road, Suite 303, Ajax, ON, L1S 7J5 or donate online by visiting www.uwayapu.org.

-30-

For further information, please call:

905-686-0606