Thanks a million from Royal Roads and the United Way
While many plans were altered because of COVID-19, some annual traditions are simply too significant to change. Royal Roads University exemplified resilience and adaptability coming together to raise funds for United Way.
Since Royal Roads University (RRU) was established 25 years ago, it has always given back to the community through United Way. Throughout 2020 (and continuing this year), Royal Roads University carried on with virtual versions of its annual United Way campaign reaching a significant milestone: $1 million raised.
“This happened at a special time for RRU, because the 25th anniversary of our United Way campaigns is also our 25th anniversary as a university,” says Philip Steenkamp, President of Royal Roads University. “I am so proud of the giving spirit of our faculty, associate faculty and staff, who organize and create great campaigns each year.”
Royal Roads’ volunteer Campaign Chair Sophia Palahicky kept up the momentum as the United Way committee representative at the university and adapted events for safety reasons, like the annual rubber-duck race event normally held using the fish ladder next to the Esquimalt Lagoon. The 2020 event had to be held without an audience but a video for staff and faculty, complete with colour commentary, captured the highlights.
Another popular fundraiser this year was an online auction, offering creative gift basket donations, and led to a partnership with other post-secondary institutions to join forces in a good-natured auction battle for decadent treats for the holidays all for a good cause: United Way.
Donations from RRU’s employee giving program will help fund programs like More than Meals, an initiative that provides meals and companionship to isolated seniors throughout the CRD, and Little Phoenix Daycare, BC’s first trauma-informed facility to support children under the age of 5.
“We are most grateful for Royal Roads’ outstanding commitment and long-standing, generous support,” said Mark Breslauer, CEO, United Way Greater Victoria. “Even through this year’s extreme challenges, Royal Roads responded with creativity and passion in running their campaign to help others in need.”
About United Way Greater Victoria
United Way is a trusted leader, influencer and catalyst for change. In response to COVID-19, we are focusing our efforts on urgent community needs such as mental health outreach services and counselling, meals and companionship for isolated seniors, and essentials for families in need. United, we accelerate change to improve the lives of our neighbours who need it most, making our local community stronger. We believe everyone in Greater Victoria should have the opportunity to reach their potential. Our vision is to build a safe and resilient community where happiness and belonging connect us. Last fiscal year, United Way raised $4.7 million thanks to over 7,000 donors and over 250 workplaces opening their offices to run employee giving programs. These funds allowed United Way to support over 90,000 people. Show your local love today by making a gift to United Way at uwgv.ca.