United Way Oxford set to celebrate 2023 campaign

After months of fundraising, United Way Oxford supporters and partners are being invited to come together to celebrate “an inspiring year of generosity and commitment.”

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On Tuesday, March 19, the local United Way is hosting its annual community celebration event at FORE! Oxford in Woodstock to mark the end of this year’s campaign while announcing the total raised.

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“Even though the climate out there was tough for people to give due to the increased cost-of-living and housing issues we are experiencing right now, the team pulled together with an energetic and positive approach which became contagious throughout the community,” Dale Flynn, the campaign co-chair, said in a release.

“Everyone from our donors, volunteers, community partners, labor groups, and local businesses came together and made it an incredibly successful campaign year. I found my first year as campaign co-chair very rewarding and enjoyable and am already excited to see what next year’s campaign will bring.”

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As part of the celebration event, United Way officials will be highlighting some of the people, organizations and businesses that made the campaign a success. United Way officials will also recognize the top fundraising individuals and workplaces throughout Oxford County through its Spirit Awards.

“The way our community has come together again this year to help those that need it most is what makes it such an honor to be part of the work of United Way Oxford,” campaign co-chair Brad Janssen said in a release. “Our community partners are on the ground every day, making a difference, and we couldn’t do it without everyone united together in showing their local love.”

With the ongoing housing crisis and growing food insecurity among the community’s most vulnerable, the work of the United Way and the programs it supports through its network of 16 community partners has never been more important, United Way officials said.

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“People across Oxford, along with many companies and labor groups, dug deep during these challenging economic times because they knew local needs were increasing and many were relying on their support,” Kelly Gilson, the agency’s executive director, said in a release. “Our donors care about our community and all the people in it, and thanks to them, we will continue to work to reduce the impacts of poverty through transitional housing and wrap-around services; to safeguard that accessible and timely social supports are available when needed; and to ensure that there are free programs available to strengthen and enhance the lives of children, youth and their families.

“Thanks to the team efforts of our co-chairs, dedicated volunteers and generous donors, United Way Oxford will continue to invest in the social needs of today while reducing the needs for tomorrow so that we can have a healthier Oxford for all.”

Registration for the community celebration is available online at www.eventbrite.ca/e/2023-community-celebration-tickets-825580813437?aff=oddtdtcreator. Light refreshments and a cash bar will be available at the event.

IF YOU GO

What: 2023 United Way Community Celebration event

When: Tuesday, March 19, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: DRILL! Oxford, 972 Dundas St., Woodstock

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