Students unite to support United Way

In the News
October 19, 2012 –

Students unite to support United Way

The Alma Mater Society (AMS) United Way Committee hosts several high profile events on campus, such as the annual barbeque and a fundraising party. Behind the scenes, though, student volunteers are involved in outreach activities that have a positive impact on many United Way-funded agencies.

“We enjoy going in to the community and volunteering our time,” says Victoria Rauseo, AMS United Way Committee chair for 2012-13. “We try to give back and show that Queen’s cares.”

Committee members and volunteers will participate in their first of several Days of Caring on November 3, visiting an agency to lend a hand with painting and other repairs. Smaller groups of United Way volunteers will help out a member agency each week during the academic year.

“I think students want to support the United Way because of the great work the organization does in the community. Not only does it provide a lot of funding to more than 100 programs and services, the United Way strengthens the community by working with its partners to address issues like poverty, homelessness, and youth at risk,” says Ms Rauseo, Artsci’13.

Student volunteers will help out at this weekend’s Town Gown in the Park, a special event taking place in Confederation Park and on Ontario Street. They will accept donations and the United Way serving Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington (KFL&A) will be on site to promote “211,” an integrated social infrastructure that supports people in times of need.

The AMS United Way Committee will host the annual barbeque on October 25 at the corner of University Avenue and Union Street. The students will be selling food items to raise funds and awareness of the United Way serving KFL&A campaign that seeks to raise $3.35 million by November 29.

The goal for the Queen’s United Way campaign in $325,000.

The support of Queen’s staff, faculty, students and retirees is critical for the local United Way, accounting for almost 15 per cent of the campaign total raised each year. Pledge cards have been sent out to campus mailboxes. If you have any questions, contact Queen’s United Way Campaign Co-Chairs Shelley Aylesworth-Spink at ext. 77914 and Nick Graham at (613) 533-6526 or Ms Rauseo by email.