Businessman Don Williamson is following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather as he leads this year’s Brant United Way campaign.
“Being asked to lead a United Way campaign – especially the 75th – is a real and very special honor,” Williamson, president of Oak House Benefits, said. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to celebrate our history and reflect on that great community work to inspire us to continue moving forward.”
Williamson’s father Paul served as campaign chair in both 2000 and 2020 and continues to support Brant United Way. His grandfather – Donald Dobie Williamson – was chair of the first campaign back in 1948.
A life-long resident of Brantford, Williamson said he understands the importance of strong community support to the overall health and wellness of the community.
“Each year, the annual campaign connects people across the city and county through a common belief and send of hope that the work we’re doing makes a difference in the lives of others,” said Williamson. “Our community is full of great people who support the Brant United Way in so many ways.
“It’s wonderful to see their commitment to making Brantford-Brant the best it can be, and I look forward to helping us move toward that goal this year.”
Meanwhile, Brant United Way officials are busy getting ready for the annual warehouse sale, a major fund-raising event. Plans call for the sale to take place on May 27-28 – the last weekend of the month.
The sale offers shoppers discounts on items donated by local companies, including household cleaning products and clothing.
Nearly a dozen local companies donate products to the sale and key services and in-kind donations from a dozen more. A team of about 200 volunteers spend hundreds of hours to help make the event a success.
The sale contributes about 15 per cent of the total amount raised through the Brant United Way’s annual campaign. The event will also highlight the contributions of donors, volunteers and businesses that hold workplace campaigns.
The sale will be held at the Brant Curling building at 34 Morrell St.
“This is always a fun, exciting event with a great turnout, and we hope to see you there,” Daniel Rankin, the Brant United Way’s executive director, said. “Keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for updates as they become available.”
For more information on the campaign visit www.brantunitedway.org or call 519-752-7848 or by email at [email protected].
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