Challenge
Shaping the future
Solution
Community engagement
With the passing of the Hazel McCallion Act in 2023, United Way geared up to support the sector through the dissolution of The Regional Municipality of Peel. We funded Metamorphosis — 100 non-profits working together to minimize disruption and ensure access to crucial services through and beyond the transition. Following the provincial government's decision to reverse the de-amalgamation process, UWGT continues to fund Metamorphosis' work to ensure a strong service-delivery system in Peel Region. And together we championed election engagement as Mississauga residents headed to the polls, sponsoring a mayoral debate in May as well as local civic activities, just as we did last year in Toronto.
Engaged and connected residents are integral to the equitable communities that we envision and hold as our north star. They are as essential to a good life as are financial and housing stability and access to a network of services. That's why we foster engagement in myriad ways, including through our own community campaign, which last year raised an amazing $111 million and always rallies people around our shared goal and common purpose through a variety of informative — and fun — activities.
This past year's campaign saw hundreds of people participate in neighbourhood tours that brought them closer to the unique challenges and charms of communities across our region. It included more than 350 Day of Caring events, a chance for individuals and groups to give back by volunteering to assemble thousands of hygiene, meal and school kits or participate in speed mentoring sessions for new job seekers. Our signature event, ClimbUP for Community, returned after a three-year hiatus. It exceeded all expectations, drawing more than 5,500 climbers and 300 volunteers to raise more than $1.5 million. Overall, a strong showing that underlines how United Way continues to drive the largest movement of philanthropy and volunteerism across the GTA, connecting and benefiting all our communities.
