United Way KFL&A announces highest ever Campaign Goal

Vulnerable individuals and community need our support more than ever, says campaign chair

KINGSTON, ON (September 6, 2024) – United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington will aim to raise $3,950,000 during its annual fall fundraising campaign. This goal represents the highest campaign goal in the history of our community. The fundraising goal was revealed this morning at St. Lawrence College by 2024 Campaign Chair, Joanne Langlois, with more than 250 community members attending in person for the announcement.

“Kickoff is always an exciting time,” said Joanne Langlois, 2024 United Way KFL&A Campaign Chair. “Our Campaign Cabinet volunteers have been hard at work planning and putting together the foundation for a strong campaign. I am excited to work with my fellow volunteers, United Way staff and community members to make the 2024 campaign a great success.”

The 2024 Campaign Goal represents an increase of $130,000 over the 2023 campaign goal and reflects the continued growing needs in the community. The annual campaign raises funds that are then invested locally in programs that support people in vulnerable situations. United Way KFL&A continues to work collaboratively with agencies and community partners, tackling complex social issues including homelessness, food security, addictions, and mental health.

“We are all feeling the pinch of rising costs and inflation and agencies in KFL&A are feeling it too. They continue to see increased demands for their services,” said Langlois. “We need to continue to support each other. As a longtime supporter of our United Way and resident of KFL&A, I know firsthand what this community can do when they come together. As a community, we are Stronger Together.”

Volunteers representing workplaces in the community gathered at the breakfast, heard from an agency speaker from Epilepsy Southeastern Ontario and got a look at this year’s campaign video produced by Untold Storytelling. They also heard about some exciting events and initiatives including a very special documentary screening featuring The Tragically Hip, the return of the Tim Hortons Holiday Smile Cookies and a new 50/50 fundraising initiative running each month throughout the campaign.

Many workplaces are gearing up for their own campaigns with events like BBQ’s, bake sales, food truck lunches and most importantly personalized employee giving. Over 60% of funds raised come from workplace campaigns.

“We are grateful for the support of so many workplaces throughout the community and I’m looking forward to attending events, meeting donors and volunteers and working together to support this amazing community,” added Langlois.

This year’s campaign will also receive a boost from the renewal of two Leadership Challenge Grants announced earlier this summer. The Britton Smith Foundation has generously put forward the Leadership Challenge Grant this year and donors who give at the Leadership level − giving $1,200 or more for the first time − will have their donation matched to a maximum amount. Donors who are already “Leaders of the Way” and add at least 10% to their previous year’s gift will also see their increased donation matched under the Leadership Grant.

In addition, the Women United Challenge Grant will also be offered. The grant is generously donated by Judith Gould and specifically encourages women to donate at the leadership level, matching their gift as well.

“We are incredibly grateful for the Britton Smith Foundation and Judith Gould’s leadership and support of this year’s campaign,” said Langlois. “We are asking community members who are able to show their support by investing, or continuing to invest, in their community and to increase their gift if they can.”

The campaign wraps up November 28, 2024. For more information and updates, please visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca.

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About United Way KFL&A
United Way Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington works closely with community partners to ensure that people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and live with hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. This vision is realized by building on deep-rooted local community knowledge and relationships to empower people to make an impact. 

The United Way raises funds for programs that support immediate needs while also tackling complex social issues collaboratively. Led by volunteers, driven by a small professional staff team, the United Way KFL&A is a unifying force, encouraging people to get involved to support our most vulnerable.

Thanks to the continued generous support of the community, United Way KFL&A is proud to rank third among United Ways across Canada in dollars raised related to the size of our market.

Stay up to date by following their social media channels – Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn or visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca

Media Contact:

Mandy Pasch, Director, Marketing and Communications
United Way KFL&A
613-876-3088, marketing@unitedwaykfla.ca