HEALTHY PEOPLE, THRIVING COMMUNITIES

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

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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."