2022 Year In Review

Y e a r I n R e v i e w

2 0 2 2

More than a Funder

The United Way team has been incredibly supportive and feels like more than a funder - they are part of our community, know what's going on, and know where to invest in high impact initiatives. The staff are always on the other end of the phone and want to work together with their partners to make our work be as collaborative as possible - both with the United Way's priorities as well as with other partners doing similar work.

To our valued supporters and partners,

In 2022, we continued our journey of a Radical Recovery by putting the same sense of urgency into addressing root causes as we did into responding to the pandemic. With the increasing cost of food, lack of affordable housing and the continued strain on the mental health system, we also needed to stay focused on the urgent needs of today

We are happy to share that our collective efforts have given us a lot to be proud of. We completed the implementation our new community impact strategy which showcased innovative funding investments focused on making lasting positive change. Collaboration was at the heart. The new All That Kids Can Be service network saw community partners working together better than ever, putting children and youth first, for more seamless supports. Our Poverty to Possibility collective impact work began to lay the groundwork for greater systems change, while also ensuring the basic needs of our community’s most vulnerable were met We launched The Home for Good Campaign in partnership with The Guelph Community Foundation to address a community gap and bring permanent supportive housing to Guelph and Wellington helping tackle one of our communities most complex issues – chronic homelessness. New community partners received funding ensuring that marginalized communities receive supports tailored to their unique needs and ensuring that everyone in our community can thrive This year ’ s annual report features the first year of impact from all these initiatives.

Whether as a community partner, donor or volunteer, you helped mobilize this impact and create a community of care. Campaign volunteers went above and beyond making calls, to ensure their colleagues didn’t miss the opportunity to donate. Many donors who could, increased their pledge Many individuals gave for the first time Community partners joined us in person to deliver over 40 impactful speakers bureau presentations. That, and so much more.

For us, the work that we are leading gives goosebumps from excitement, tears knowing the life-changing impact that is happening and pride to be part of this great and generous community We look forward with courage because we know we have some big community issues to address; but also with hope, because we know that together with our community, we can achieve anything.

Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Glenna Banda, Executive Director Rick McCombie, President, Board of Directors

Our Role

Every day, communities depend on United Way to improve lives, remove barriers and create opportunities. Our organization exists to make a lasting difference in the lives of the people who need us most—to make an impact every day.

Our Mission

Our mission is to bring people and resources together to meet existing and emerging social needs, in order to improve lives and build strong, healthy communities for all

Our Aspiration

United Way builds community that shares responsibility for social good

Our Promise

United Way is committed to putting your dollars to work in the most effective way possible We will continue to:

Act as a strong community partner, alongside local government, businesses and our network of agencies

Provide ongoing flexible and new emergency funding to provide support for our most vulnerable Act as a trusted partner in administering federal funding, to ensure effective and quick distribution

Work on the frontlines alongside and in support of our agency partners

Leverage research and policy insights to ensure we ’ re making investments where they’re needed most

2022 Board of Directors

Making real and lasting change requires the contributions, expertise, and commitment of everyone in our community – including our Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has a governance mandate and is responsible for ensuring United Way’s mission and strategic plan are achieved. We are grateful to the following volunteers who are currently serving terms on our Board:

Robyn Gladstone Director

Kola Ipaye Director

Diane Ballantyne Director

Vanessa McQuade Director

Patricia Tersigni Director

Michael von Massow Director

Ryan Baker Director

Rick McCombie President

Randa MacNaughton Vice-President

Jean Prichard Treasurer

Mike Greer Director

2022 Campaign Cabinet

The Campaign Cabinet is a group of passionate volunteer leaders who work to inspire and mobilize support for United Way's annual campaign within their own workplace, other workplaces, and the community. We thank these generous and dedicated volunteers for their support to the 2022 Campaign!

Helen Robson Linamar Manufacturing Co-Chair

Heather King RBC Royal Bank Business & Finance Co-Chair

Lesley Christodoulou The Co-operators Business & Finance Co-Chair

Julie Hutchins Retirees Co-Chair

Les Herr Herr Wealth Management Leadership Co-Chair

Rich Moccia Leadership Co-Chair

Patricia Tersigni Chair University of Guelph

Robyn Gladstone Linamar Manufacturing Co-Chair

Vicki Olatundun Chalmers Community Services Public Service Co-Chair

Elaine Fenner University of Guelph Education Co-Chair

Michael Von Massow University of Guelph Education Co-Chair

Ami Martell Public Service Co-Chair OMAFRA

Lorena Wilson TransAlta Corporation Dufferin County CoChair

Parth Shah Kenvue (Johnson & Johnson) Manufacturing Co-Chair

Sue Keuhl Sleeman Breweries Ltd. Manufacturing Co-Chair

Alasdair Campbell The Co-operators Business & Finance Co-Chair

Our Team

We are incredibly grateful to our team of volunteers and staff for their passion and dedication to our community.

Leadership Committee

Les Herr, Co-Chair

Rich Moccia, Co-Chair

Rory Labron

Rob Cunnington

John Duffy

Genevieve Gauthier

Angela Crawford

Julie Hutchins

Women United

Catherine Carstairs, Co-Chair

Robyn Gladstone, Co-Chair

Katherine Cavan

Lesley Christodoulou

Elaine Fenner

Heather LeBar

Jennifer Maddock

Cathy Okrafka

Patricia Tersigni

Community Impact Committee

Steve Anderson

Elaine Garner

Randa MacNaughton

El Sayed Mahmoud

Harshita Maingi

Jane McKinnon

Joy Sammy

Thomas Sasso

Bruce Weaver

Business Development Committee

Carlie Roberts, Co-Chair

Stephen Ferraro, Co-Chair

Hitesh Jagad

Kirtida Jagad

Lynn Vanschaik

Audrey Tysick

Irene Szabo

Maria Basciano

Golf United Committee

Les Herr, Chair

Chris Edmonds

Mark Mclear

Community Members on Board Committees

Governance: Irene Thompson, Janet MacInnes

Finance Committee: Cole Labord, Lesley

Christodoulou

HR Committee: Terry Peach, Catherine Carstairs, Maala Kelangath

GenNext Committee

Kayla Gordon, Co-Chair

Maryn Vonk, Co-Chair

Miranda Drexler

Alyssa Voigt

Jennifer Bucci

Steve Kurtz

Emma Biffi

Carlos Lopez Argueta

Chloe Arsenault

Breanne Tait

Davida Cordeiro-Blevins

Harshita Maingi

Sponsored Employees

Davida Cordeiro, University of Guelph

Harshita Maingi, University of Guelph

Genna Wright, OMAFRA

Staff

Glenna Banda, Executive Director

Indu Arora

Sue Cybulski

Holly Freeman

Deborah Lobbezoo

Emilie Mossman

Colleen Murdoch

Andrew McCann-Pappin

Jillian Tausky

Staff Moving On During 2022

Trish Scott

Highlights of 2022

Lighting Up The City!

United Way was pleased to not only be able to raise the flag at Guelph's City Hall during the week of our Campaign Kick-off, but participate in the Mayor's Tree Lighting event to kick off the holiday season! Thank you to the City of Guelph and Mayor Guthrie for your support!

Women United

Women United celebrates the remarkable philanthropy of women leaders in our community It is a growing group of women who believe that every person in our community should have access to the supports they need, including housing, mental health services and community connections. In 2022, two great events were held to raise funds and raise awareness - the Spring Fling and Prom: Flashback to the 80s! It was amazing to see so many women engaging in meaningful conversation and learning about issues impacting our community As special thanks to the Women United committee for their leadership.

Day of Caring Returns!

The return of in-person events, meant the return of our Day of Caring! United Way’s Day of Caring™ seeks teams of employees to take time from their workday to volunteer at local charities This year we helped harvest vegetables at Everdale Farm in Hillsburgh, ON. This is a great way to really see the impact your donations are making in our community and a great teambuilding event to do with your colleagues!

2022 marked the 10th anniversary of the Linamar Centre's Annual Trade Show and Chili cookoff. The team celebrated with the biggest event yet, with a food truck and concert event, following a 2-day tradeshow and chili cookoff. A record breaking $103,000 was raised to support the Campaign The passion of employee volunteers goes above and beyond with events like this, that inspire all of us!

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!

United Way hit a new milestone during the 2022 Campaign - with it's very own ice cream! The University of Guelph came up with the 'sweet' way to support United Way, aptly named "Lotsa Local Love". The ice cream was churned out at the Guelph Food Innovation Centre (GFIC) on campus using ingredients made on campus, including honey donated by the University of Guelph (U of G) Honey Bee Research Centre and cookies baked up in the Creelman Bake Shop. If you weren't lucky enough to get your hands on a pint, trust us - it was ah-mazing!

Golf United, presented by Herr Wealth Management, supports our ongoing efforts to ensure everyone in our community has a place to call home. At the 2022 event, which took place at Cutten Fields, over $30,000 was raised in support of The Home for Good Campaign, which will see three permanent supportive housing projects come to life and provide 72 individuals with a safe space to call home Thank you to everyone who made this a sold out success!

Linamar Tradeshow & Chili Cookoff

Our Strategy In Action

We are proud to be building a community that shares responsibility for social good. Even though the pandemic required some shifts to addressing emerging needs, we remained focused on the vision and importance of our strategic plan, and incredible progress was made.

Strategic Initiative Highlights from 2022

Be the leader for social good.

Act as a community impact leader to coordinate plans and achieve social results.

Completed the launch of the new Community Impact Strategy, including the implementation of All That Kids Can Be, Healthy People Thriving Communities, Poverty to Possibility, Rural Communities, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion funding streams;

Issued 13 Community Action Grants to small projects or to support emerging needs

Continued to ensure Equity Diversity & Inclusion is at the centre of our work by updating HR policies, completing learning sessions with Board and staff, and reviewing our approach to fundraising and donor concerns

Prioritized moving our staff from 'surviving' to 'thriving' by strengthening our team communication norms, enhancing our well-being and learning to say ' no'!

Diversity Giving Channels

Move to year-round engagement to build new fundraising channels

·

Successfully launched the Home For Good campaign, in partnership with the Guelph Community Foundation and the Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination

Hosted the first annual Golf United event, raising over $30,000 Engaged new sponsors and small business in our work

Developed new community outreach initiatives, including the City of Guelph Tree Lighting and community-wide 50/50 raffle

Strengthen engagement of individuals who want to make a difference. Mobilize support for change by engaging stakeholders year-round through communications and participation in a shared purpose to strengthen our community.

Enabled donors with the choice to support issues they care about Further developed signature engagement opportunities that appealed to a diverse audience base, including Women United events, United In Conversation and Day of Caring

Build Credibility & Trust.

Increasingly achieve best practice operations and governance.

Updated Risk Management Policy, HR Policy and Executive Director Emergency Succession Plan

Launched new website and educational & informative social media education series

Worked on updating our organization's values to better reflect our current way of working (will be launched in 2023!)

Community Investment & Impact Strategy

United Way’s purpose is creating lasting positive change. We are uniquely able to focus and unite people and resources to improve lives and build community - by creating support, connection, and opportunity - at a time when they are so very needed by the whole community.

Our innovative Community Impact Strategy focuses on solutions and supports to address current, deepened community challenges and build trust and collaboration with the community. We’re looking to new ways of working with our partners to build on what we ’ ve learned over the pandemic and are being radically local in our approach, with the goal of solving local problems with local solutions and empowering those closest to the issues

Our strategy is centered around 5 Focus Areas: Healthy People, Thriving Communities: Building strong, supportive, and inclusive communities that are vital for all of us to thrive

From Poverty to Possibility: Addressing the root causes of poverty and shifting our solutions to create systemic change, while ensuring families and individuals have the financial, social and personal assets they need to improve their quality of life

All That Kids Can Be: Ensuring children and youth have an opportunity to recognize their limitless potential, by giving them more tools to build emotional wellbeing and resiliency.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion: Addressing the inequities that marginalized groups experience and using our voice to support communities where everyone feels like they belong and are valued for their unique differences

Rural Communities: Applying a local lens to the needs and issues of our rural communities, and recognizing there are certain challenges to finding solutions in rural areas

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)

United Way is rooted in building strong and inclusive communities We strive to create opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential However, many of the issues United Way works to address have a disproportionate impact on black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+, people with disabilities and other marginalized communities We acknowledge that due to systemic factors, some members of our community experience barriers to accessing programs/services and funding to support those programs.

We continue to not only focus on learning but also taking action. Below is a highlight of some of the ways we took action in 2022.

Community Investment

Launched the EDI focus area which:

Prioritized available funding for historically under-funded communities

Addressed historic barriers to obtaining United Way funding including new application and reporting processes

Trusted community members with lived experience with final decision making on granting.

Promoted community partner EDI by incorporating questions into all of our funding applications.

Organizational Culture & Practices

Completed a series of EDI training and planning sessions with our staff and board focused on how to apply EDI to our work and decision making

Proactively recruited volunteers who represent the diversity of our communities

Launched the employee Culture Club focused on creating a safe and welcoming environment

Updated our anti-harassment and non-discrimination policies and practices so staff can better understand how to address experiences of discrimination

Data Community mobilization and engagement

Collected data from community partners with an EDI lens to ensure our investments are reaching all members of our community

Used stories and data on social media to create shared community understanding about historic and current inequities

Regularly use equitable convening practices such as providing food, ensuring accessibility of physical space, providing multiple ways to participate and offering no-low cost event registration

Communication and awareness building

To combat stereotypes and stigma, we are normalizing tough conversations and creating safe spaces for them including United in Conversation, which focused on Homelessness and Harm Reduction.

Supporting Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Supporting those farthest from opportunity is an integral part of creating a strong & thriving community that prioritizes equity. In 2022, we launched our Equity, Diversity & Inclusion funding stream, with the goal of providing opportunities and support for smaller, grassroots organizations and organizations led by marginalized communities to carry out the great work they provide to marginalized groups, while improving equity, diversity and inclusion across our community. Our support recognizes the need for empowering those closest to the issues and prioritizes work led by members of the community they look to serve. We are proud to be leading the way in this area, as one of only a few funders offering support in this way.

EDI Funding In Action

Diversity andIn c l u s

Our Equity, Diversity & Inclusion funding stream was a highlight of 2022, from both a community impact lens, but also from a listening and learning lens Through the work of ensuring this funding stream had the impact we wanted in our community, we had the opportunity to meet and work with some incredible people and organizations. Learn more about the process we undertook and hear from some of the fabulous organizations receiving funding as a result!

Video Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Together, we can solve chronic homelessness.

On any given night, we know by name around 140 people in Guelph and Wellington County who identify as chronically homeless When you include those individuals and families who are new to the experience of homelessness, the number soars to 270

The Home For Good campaign is a bold call to action to solve homelessness in our community Through the generosity of our community, we will raise $5 million to build homes for people experiencing homelessness in Guelph and Wellington. It is a partnership between United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin, The Guelph Community Foundation and the Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination.

The immediate focus is to raise the capital investment required to complete three projects that will contribute 72 supportive housing units in Guelph over the next year - 10 Shelldale, Grace Gardens and Bellevue Support Housing. This solution provides people experiencing chronic homelessness with consistent social and emotional supports. Called Permanent Supporting Housing (PSH) this can include programs around mental health, wellness and food security While not the only solution, PSH is life and system changing.

2022 Highlights

Major progress was made on developing The Home For Good Campaign, including the framework for the partnership between the Guelph Community Foundation, the Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination, and community partners

The Home For Good Campaign was launched on May 12, 2022, to a packed gymnasium of community partners and supporters at Shelldale Centre. It was announced that over 80% of the $24.3 million capital project goal had been raised so far

In June, St. Andrew's Church in Guelph generously donated $600,000 to support the campaign, the largest cash donation to date

Ground was broken at the site of the new Kindle Communities Housing site in September

A series of stories launched in the Guelph Tribune, sponsored by local businesses, to help bring awareness and aid in educating the public about the issue of homelessness in our community

Our work continues and community donations are needed to ensure all three projects can open their doors in 2023. Find out how you can help at www.homeforgoodgw.ca

The PTF works collaboratively, informed by diverse voices of experience, to take local action and advocate for system and policy change to address the root causes of poverty

In 2021, United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin became the host agency of the Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination (PTF).

Why Poverty Elimination Work Is Important to United Way

COVID-19 demonstrated the cracks in social service systems and disproportionately impacted those living in poverty The community is challenging the social services sector to create a “ new normal” and address systemic issues, rather than provide band-aid solutions. The recommended approaches to end poverty by the PTF is based on research and credible collective strategies and is a natural fit within our Community Impact Strategy.

How We Work Together

As a registered charity, the United Way has adopted and is hosting the PTF, its work, and activities as its own project, using a Shared Platform structure United Way provides administrative support including office space, financial management, and human resources The work of the PTF is overseen by a Steering Committee of community stakeholders.

United Way and the PTF are proud to be creating synergies with their work by collaborating on key community projects including the Poverty To Possibility Collective Impact Project and GuelphWellington’s goal to end homelessness.

United Way Guelph Wellinton Dufferin is proud to be a Living Wage Employer

Accountability

Transparency

We’re serious about managing donor contributions wisely, and we believe you should feel confident when you give to charity Every dollar you give to United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin stays 100% local and our communities are measurably stronger because of the work you empower us to do.

We strive to be open and accountable. Our audited financial statements are available online. Our salaries are established based on a comparison of other charities’ compensation, an assessment of roles and responsibilities, and a commitment to spending dollars wisely. We also encourage donors to consult our annual listing with the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA).

Using Resources Wisely

Investing wisely in the right areas allows us to reach more people and create more impact, not waste more money. Along with investing in our local community initiatives, we make smart investments in our infrastructure so that we can:

Monitor and understand our community needs, Raise the next dollar and be sustainable, Provide equitable pay and benefits to attract and retain staff, Evaluate and report back on impact, Have the tools we need to work efficiently and effectively

In 2022, administration and fundraising expenses made up 29% of our spending This increased by 5% from 2021 due to one-time investments in fundraising strategy and marketing for The Home for Good Campaign. Donors should be cautious about using overhead as the sole way to gauge effectiveness because this number can fluctuate from year to year based on a variety of factors. In this case, up front investments will mean incredible progress in solving chronic homelessness in 2023.

Whether it is through community or internal investments, donors can trust that we invest our available resources in smart, strategic ways, to ultimately help the people who depend on us

2022 Spending Overview

With thanks to the generosity of our community, we carefully invested in Guelph, Wellington and Dufferin in the following ways:

Other Financial Highlights

Community Services funding powers our role as a community mobilizer. It enables us to tackle the toughest problems our communities face, by accessing real-time research, data, and stories of lived experiences to understand the challenges before us. We draw the right people to the table to address the issues, advocate for change and collaboratively build innovative solutions to community issues.

The Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination works collaboratively, informed by diverse voices of experience to take local action and advocate for system and policy change to address the root causes of poverty. Partnered with our Collective Impact Investments, we are

moving people from Poverty to Possibility

Investments were made in Fundraising & Administration to support our strategic directions including communications & marketing for The Home for Good Campaign and the development of a new website. Although revenue was down, current staffing was maintained so that our organization can rebuild from the ongoing impacts to the non-profit sector from the pandemic and current economic environment

2022 Campaign Awards

We celebrated the 2022 Campaign - and our Local Love - in person for the first time in three years! After a challenging year for many, we were pleased to thank all our workplace volunteers, donors and community partners for their continued dedication and support in our pursuit of a Radical Recovery!

Campaign Champions Awards

Employee Campaign Coordinators who went above and beyond this year to ensure their campaign was a success.

Recipients:

Helen Robson, Linamar Corporation

Sue Keuhl, Sleeman Breweries

Mark Colvin, University of Guelph

Robin Drew & Rebecca Force, OMAFRA

Lorena Wilson, TransAlta

Incredibles Award

Recognizes the “ unsung heroes” of our Campaign

Recipients: Robyn Gladstone, Linamar Corporation and Les Herr, Herr Wealth Management

Local Love Award

Highlights someone that takes pride in our great community and truly defines “Local Love”.

Recipients: Kirtida Kitchen and University of Guelph's Food Sciences Department

Bright Star Award

Recognizes the workplaces that showed commitment to our community with an increase in their workplace campaign participation, exceeding their fundraising goals or through innovative and creative events.

Recipients: The Frank Hasenfratz Centre For Excellence in Manufacturing and Sleeman Breweries

Leading the Way Award

Presented to a workplace who values giving back to the community, with senior leadership leading the way.

Recipient: OMAFRA

Campaign Cornerstone Award

Organizations recognized for their continued, cornerstone support

Recipients:

County of Wellington

The Co-operators

University of Guelph

Linamar Corporation

2022 Campaign Sponsors

Presenting Sponsors

Caring Corporations

This group of extraordinary organizations are leading the way when it comes to giving. Through a partnership with United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin, which includes employee donations, company fundraising events, and corporate contributions, these dedicated workplaces are demonstrating their commitment to creating a strong and thriving Guelph, Wellington, Dufferin. Thank you to all for their generosity.

$500,000 +

Linamar Corporation

University of Guelph

$100,000 +

The Co-operators

Sleeman Breweries Ltd

$50,000 – $99,999

LCBO

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture & Food Rural Affairs

Wellington Catholic District School Board

Wellington County Employees

$20,000 – $49,999

BMO Bank of Montreal

Cemtol Manufacturing

City of Guelph

Johnson & Johnson

Oregon Tool Canada Ltd.

Rowan Williams Davies & Irwin Inc.

Syngenta Canada Inc.

TD Canada Trust

$10,000 – $19,999

Costco Wholesale Canada Ltd.

Intrigue Media

McKesson Canada

RBC Royal Bank

Scotiabank

Upper Grand District School Board

Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health

$5000 – $ 9,999

Alectra Utilities

Avient Canada ULC

Canadian Food Inspection Agency/Agriculture and Agri Food Canada

Cargill Limited

General Electric Canada Inc

GEON Performance Solutions

GM BluePlan Engineering Limited

Guelph General Hospital

Manulife Financial

Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services

Public Health Agency of Canada - Stone Rd

RLB LLP

Transalta

United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin employees

$1000 – $4,999

Action Read Community Literacy Centre

Bell Canada

Canada Life

Centre Wellington Hydro

CIBC

Coldwell Banker Neumann Real Estate

Compass Community Services

Consolidated Dealers Co-op Inc

Correctional Service of Canada

Dufferin Child & Family Services

EastGen

ELANCO Animal Health

Enterprise Rent-a-Car

Family & Children's Services of Guelph and Wellington County

General Mills Canada Corporation

Google

Greystone Orthotech Services Inc.

GSW/A O Smith Water Heating Company

Guelph Chamber of Commerce

Guelph Independent Living

Guelph Wellington Women in Crisis

Health Canada

Homestead Land Holdings Limited

IG Wealth Management

Intact Insurance

Justice Canada

Local 4610 USWA District 6

Medtronic of Canada Ltd

Metalumen Manufacturing Inc

Ministry of the Attorney General

Morenike Afadapa-Ipaye Medicine Corp

Newdon Industries Ltd.

Olympic Honda Auto Sales

Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation

OPG Employees' & Pensioners' Charity Trust

Owens Corning Canada

Saputo Dairy Products Canada

Strategic Charitable Giving Foundation

Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada

Tacoma Engineers Head Office

TC Industries of Canada Company

United Steelworkers of America South-Central Ontario Area Council

Valcom Limited

Veeva

COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT

Community Impact is about achieving meaningful, longterm improvements to quality of life in Guelph Wellington and Dufferin communities by addressing not just the symptoms of problems but also getting at the root causes.

Recognizing this, we have chosen to focus efforts in five impact areas essential for our community to thrive. We do this by investing in programs and by working closely with local community groups – those that receive United Way funds and those that do not – to address the social needs of individuals and groups in our community that are vulnerable to social and systemic barriers to create meaningful change.

Our Five Impact Areas

TOTAL INVESTMENT:

ALL THAT KIDS CAN BE

Experiences in childhood shape who we are and set the stage for who we become. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic or stressful experiences that may happen in a person’s life before the age of 18. This can include; abuse, neglect, discrimination, living in poverty, exposure to community violence, and systemic racism.

United Way provides funding to a service network of community partners who collaborate to support those who have experienced adversities. Our network supports wrap-around children, youth, and their families to build protective factors, mitigate the effects of adversity, and empower children and youth to reach their full potential. Members are using the network to gain information, collaborate, learn and understand, which leads to better decision-making within their own organizations and referrals to other services for clients.

,

, children&youth weresupportedthrough localprograms in2022.

Robin had endured several school changes and challenges at home. She was struggling to attend school and developing relationships with her peers She was referred to the School Mentor Program where she was matched with Crystal, a 3rd year Bachelor of Science student at the University of Guelph. As Robin also had a keen interest in science, this was a perfect match What Robin needed more than anything was another caring and consistent adult role model in her life

Robin was nervous and unsure at first, but Crystal showed up every week, gradually building rapport with Robin through conversation and small activities By November, Robin and Crystal’s relationship was truly thriving - due in large part to their shared interest of science! Crystal asked Robin each week what she was curious about learning and science experiments became a favourite shared activity Writing notes to one another in invisible ink was a special favourite!

“Robin loves her time with Crystal. Crystal was so kind and patient in building the relationship slowly, appreciating Robin for who she is. The days that Robin knew Crystal was coming to her school were the days when she was most excited to go to school, and she’d always come home to tell me about their science experiments. This program was such a rewarding experience!”

"All

That Kids Can Be "Service Network

"We feel supported by one another, especially in a peer-peer leadership capacity. We're able to share challenges and potential solutions."

Click here to watch our work in action!

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

United Way is rooted in building strong and inclusive communities. We strive to create opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential. However, many of the issues United Way works to address have a disproportionate impact on black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ2+, people with disabilities, and other marginalized communities. We acknowledge that, due to systemic factors, some members of our community experience barriers to accessing programs, services, and funding.

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: $ ,

Indigenous people were able to access culturally appropriate supports & healing.

Our key focus areas of All That Kids Can Be, Healthy People, Strong Communities, and From Poverty to Possibility still apply, but we support this work from the lens of a marginalized community, including Black and racialized communities, Indigenous, newcomers and immigrants, women (including cis, trans, non-binary, intersex), people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+.

36 assistive devices were purchased for 23 individuals with disabilities.

114 transgender individuals accessed gender affirming menta health support.

Medical interpretation services were accessed

times in Guelph & Wellington.

Click here to watch our work in action!

Feedback from one a parent, whose son has been working with the racialized Outreach Worker as part of The Racialized Trauma Based Mental Health Support Program:

"It's been helpful to know my son received support that was informed by a lived experience of racialization. As a parent, I appreciated the Outreach Worker's support in speaking to the principal and teachers at the school about my concerns. I also appreciated having someone who could clearly explain microaggressions and other racialized experiences. My son will be attending high school next year and he has some worries about it. The Outreach Worker offered to help him navigate this transition, organizing a tour ahead of time and offering support to help him feel more comfortable."

TOTAL INVESTMENTS:

,

FROM POVERTY TO POSSIBILITY

Poverty touches almost every aspect of people’s lives from food, shelter, and employment to mental and physical wellbeing. People who lack necessities like food and shelter can’t get ahead in life. Those who struggle to find work or manage their finances aren’t able to reach their full potential. We believe that every person in every community deserves the opportunities, access, and connections they need to build a good life — regardless of their income, the neighbourhood they live in, or their social identity.

United Way’s poverty reduction efforts are designed to achieve measurable results which ensure families and individuals have the financial, social, and personal assets they need to improve their quality of life.

, people had access to nutritious & culturally appropriate food.

36 people moved in to housing, with supports.

Almost 10,000 grocery deliveries to more than 700 individuals & families.

"United Way creates a ‘united way’. They created a space for us to really think about our work together and to have difficult conversations about how we’re going to change. They refused to let us do things the same way, knowing that we can do better. United Way gave us an opportunity to imagine a bigger, brighter future, that we’re excited about and that only happens if we work collaboratively, together."

-Poverty to Possibilty community partner

15,421 people accessed fresh food at community markets.

youth were housed in safe & supported environments.

HEALTHY PEOPLE, THRIVING COMMUNITIES

people feel a stronger sense of belonging & connectedness to their community.

, $ ,

TOTAL INVESTMENTS:

A community is only as strong as the sum of its parts. Strong, supportive, and inclusive communities are vital for all of us to thrive. However, in many neighbourhoods across Guelph, Wellington, and Dufferin, local residents are dealing with complex issues that prevent them from building a good life. When someone’s mental health is compromised, it can negatively affect all aspects of their life, from education and career, to relationships and overall well-being. People who are connected to others and their community tend to be happier and healthier. Belonging and participating are ways to get emotional support, feel valued, decrease social isolation, and give back to the community.

United Way partners with local, front-line agencies to deliver vital programs and services that focus on belonging, inclusion, and connection to support in our communities.

2,969 people got the mental health support they needed through crisis lines. safety & coping plans created. psychotherapy sessions delivered to people.

"My family has been involved with the United Way supported Neighbourhood group for many years. We have been both a benefactor and a recipient of support. My children have attended afterschool programs, summer camps, family fun nights and winter carnivals. My children have grown with the group as extended family members. This year, my son, who suffers from severe social anxiety, joined me in giving back to the neighbourhood by delivering Christmas hampers.

This was a huge deal for my son, who has been so crippled by his anxiety to the point where he could not return a library book. Feeling comfortable enough to carry boxes upstairs and into community members' homes was a big step forward for him. He is well aware that similar people had delivered boxes to our own home in the past, and he wanted to return the favour. Everyone was so encouraging of him and understanding of his struggles. He loved the experience and cannot wait to do it again next year.

540 rural seniors participated in programsbuilding connections & improving their wellbeing.

This neighborhood group really lives up to the vision of creating a community where everyone feels at home. Understanding everyones' unique needs and creating a space where everyone can participate equitably. That includes giving back to the extent they can and recognizing how big that is. Me delivering a hamper to someone is nothing; watching my son deliver the same hamper is priceless."

RURAL COMMUNITIES

In Wellington and Dufferin County, loca residents are dealing with complex issues that prevent them from building a good life, including; a lack o transportation, access to stable internet cost of goods, severe isolation, and a low sense of belonging.

At United Way we recognize that the needs and issues that impact the communities we support are different in rural and urban areas, and across distinc communities. Applying a local lens to funding in Wellington County and Dufferin County gives those who are closest to the issues the opportunity to tackle them in ways that they know wil work for their location.

TOTAL INVESTMENTS: $ ,

Over 1500 rural youth reported better coping skills and emotional regulation.

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More than individuals & families in Wellington & Dufferin County got the support & resources they need to thrive.

A woman in an abusive relationship called the United Way funded Rural Women’s Support Program to ask about getting special priority housing. She was hoping to leave her abusive partner as she was concerned for herself and her 2 and 3 year old children She had not been in the workforce since the birth of her first child and had no financial resources when she first reached out The counsellor was able to do a risk assessment with the woman and advocate with housing for her to be put on the special priorityhousing list. The counsellor did some immediate safety planning with the woman and provided a 2-hr free legal advice form, so the she could get free legal advice. The woman was also connected to the Family Court Support Program, so she could get assistance preparing for family court when she felt safe enough to leave Eventuall,y the woman was able to relocate to a safe housing unit and leave her abusive partner, with a well-organized safety plan she had arranged with her counsellor The woman continued to attend counselling for the first year after she left her abusive partner She gained enough confidence to re-enter the workforce and provide for her family. She learned how to identify abusive behaviour, set healthy boundaries and move forward with more confidence and safety.

people were connected with social supports and feel less isolated.

223 people in East Wellington received food hampers & school supplies for kids.

135 seniors received fresh, nutritious food deliveries to their home.

ADDITIONAL INVESTMENTS

"The beautiful part of having the donation table in the heart of the community is that it was very close to where I live, and I was able to get more involved in programs and meet other parents who are now friends with me and my children."

13 Community Action Grants

11 High School Scholarships , $

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“Getting needed food items before my next disability cheque arrives - I appreciate that very much.”

Toward Common Ground

$ ,

$

- Client of The SEED, recipient of a Community Action Grant

-Client of Shelldale Community Table, recipient of a Community Action Grant

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The 211 telephone helpline and website provide a gateway to community, social, non-clinical health, and related government services and helps to navigate the complex network of human services in our community quickly and easily, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For assistance finding housing, language training, employment, and so much more – call 2-1-1. It’s free, offered in over 100 languages, and available day or night.

WE ARE LOCAL EXPERTS

By investing in individual programs and by participating with local community committees - those that receive United Way funds and those that do not - we aim to address the social needs of individuals and families in our community that are vulnerable to social and systemic barriers, in order to create meaningful change We are happy to work with our community partners on the following committees and task forces:

COMMUNITY DATA PROGRAM - WELLINGTON-DUFFERIN-GUELPH CONSORTIUM

This program functions as a gateway for municipalities and community organizations to access data, monitor and report on social and economic trends within their communities

GUELPH WELLINGTON TASK FORCE FOR POVERY ELIMINATION - STEERING COMMITTEE

This committee focuses on developing an intersectional approach regarding Housing & Homelessness, Livable Incomes & Decent Work, Food Insecurity and Health Inequalities in our local community. This work is supported by the Research & Knowledge Mobilization Committee and the Wellington-Guelph Housing Committee.

GUELPH WELLINGTON LOCAL IMMIGRATION PARTNERSHIP - LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

This council is a large coalition of individuals representing a wide range of groups in the community. Their focus is in creating a more welcoming and inclusive community for immigrants by developing effective solutions that address economic and social issues

GUELPH-WELLINGTON FUNDERS NETWORK

The purpose of this network is to take a birds-eye view on local issues and needs, and align them to different funding processes This requires members to take collective action and respond to funding requests and needs in the community

DIGITAL EQUITY COALITION

Digital Equity Coalition members work together to guide the development and implementation of a comprehensive community plan to advance digital equity in Guelph Wellington, champion digital equity practices and inform decision-making.

MAYOR'S TASK FORCE ON HOMELESSNESS AND COMMUNITY SAFETY - STRATEGIC ADVISORY GROUP ON DOWNTOWN ISSUES

A combination of community leaders and agencies, convened by Mayor Guthrie that work together around the issues of homelessness and related issues of addiction, mental health, and community safety

TOWARD COMMON GROUND - STEERING COMMITTEE

This committee aims to build a sustainable collective planning model to support stakeholders of social and health well-being and to take action that makes a difference in the lives of people in our community

DUFFERIN COUNTY EQUITY COMMITTEE (DCEC)

This committee is made up of agencies representing a diverse cross section of social, health, education, and economic organizations, decision makers, and community leaders who work with the Dufferin population. Their focus is to help everyone reach their full potential by advocating for and informing others about housing and homelessness, employment and health equity.

UNITED WAY'S SENIORS NETWORK

A network of agencies who provide programs and services to seniors in Guelph, Wellington & Dufferin. The purpose of the network is to connect organizations to one another, identify gaps in services, share resources and work on ways our community can better meet seniors' needs.

YOUTH SERVICE PROVIDERS NETWORK

The Youth Service Providers Network is a committee for youth service providers in the City of Guelph and Wellington County to provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, knowledge exchange, and skill and capacity building among youth service providers working in GW

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PEER GROUP

The Executive Director Peer Group of Guelph/Wellington (EDPG) is a group of executive directors that come together on a regular basis, to grow as professionals and leaders Through sharing personal experiences and learning from guest speakers, EDPG members are interested in improving our skills, sharing opportunities and finding creative solutions to common challenges

SETTING THE TABLE: GATHERINGS ON FOOD EQUITY & RESILIENCE

Setting the Table brings together community members, community builders, change-makers, leaders and decision-makers together to learn about community resilience, food equity and the role we all have in promoting the two. The working group aims to inspire a movement and create the conditions for food equity.

2022-2024 COMMUNITY PARTNERS

All That Kids Can Be

Action Read Community Literacy Centre

Early Start Family Literacy Program

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph

1:1 Community Based Match Program

In-School Mentoring Program

School-Based Group Programs

Community Resource Centre of North & Centre Wellington

Outreach & Support Services

Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition

ACEs Network Coordination

John Howard Society of Waterloo-Wellington

Bullying Prevention & Social Competency

Go Girls/Game On Mentoring Groups

In-School Mentoring Match Program

Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Wellington Child Witness Centre

Child Witness Program

Rural Communities

Big Brothers Big Sisters Dufferin & District

Match Program

In-School Mentoring Program

Dufferin Parent Support Network

Group Parent Education Program

East Wellington Community Services

Food Bank

From Poverty to Possibility

ARCH: HIV/AIDS Resource & Community

Health

Emergency Funding Assistance Program

Chalmers Community Services

Food Pantry

Guelph Community Health Centre

The Seed

Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination

Poverty Task Force

Skills Development Programs

Shelldale Family Gateway

Social Inclusion, Mentorship & Leadership

Wellington County Learning Centre

Just for YOUth Program

Wyndham House

Give Yourself Credit

Guelph Wellington Women In Crisis

Rural Women's Support Program

Headwaters Communities In Action

Dufferin County Equity Collaborative

The Grove

Rural Communities Connection Project

Victorian Order of Nurses

Meals on Wheels (Wellington County)

Transportation Program

Hope House

Senior Community Produce Markets

Kindle Communities

Housing Support Worker

Stepping Stone

Housing Stability Workers

Wellington County Learning Centre

Stronger Together

Wyndham House

Youth-Focused Supporting Housing Program

2022-2024 COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington

EDI Outreach Program

Anishnabeg Outreach Employment & Training

Inc.

Guelph Centre of Healing

Canadian Arab Women Association

Arab Women Entrepreneurship

Career Education Council

Let Me See Me

Compass Community Services

2SLGBTQ+ Youth Talk & Text Support Line

Community of Hearts Lifelong Learning Centre

Boxes of Hearts Social Enterprise Program

Dufferin Child & Family Services

GLOW

Racialized Trauma-Based Mental Health Support Program

Guelph Wellington Women In Crisis

Sexual Assault Centre

Guelph Black Heritage Society

#ChangeStartsNow Initiative

Immigrant Services Guelph Wellington

Learning to Learn

Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre

Equitable Access to Medical Interpretation Services

March of Dimes

Assistive Devices Program

Seed, Soil and Spirit School

Herbal Immersion Program

Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC)

Building Our Bundle, Strengthening our Community

Healthy People, Thriving Communities

Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington

Outreach Program

Community Resource Centre of North & Centre Wellington

Outreach & Support Services

Compass Community Services

Mental Health Support Services

East Wellington Community Services

Community Support Services/Outreach Program

Family & Children's Services of Guelph & Wellington

Parent Outreach Worker Program

Guelph Neighbourhood Support

Coalition

Community Wellbeing

Guelph Wellington Seniors Association

Community Support Services

Michael House Pregnancy Care Centre

Residential Program

211 Ontario

211 Help Line