Waterloo – The United Way of Kitchener-Waterloo and Surrounding Area announced today that its 2008 annual campaign efforts exceeded their original goal of $5.3 million. The final campaign results brought in $5,318,945 million for the local community. During an Achievement Breakfast held at Waterloo Inn this morning to announce the total, the organization also handed out campaign awards to several companies, with top honours going to Christie Digital.

“We’re thrilled with the results,” Jan Varner, CEO of United Way of Kitchener-Waterloo and Surrounding Area, told the 300+ supporters and partners in attendance. “Waterloo Region is widely acknowledged as a great place to live and work, and our results indicate it is also a place where all members of our community want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to share in that success”

Campaign Chair, Victor Zamin was also very pleased with the 2008 results.

“Last September we were still riding an economic high, but by mid-campaign things changed drastically,” said Zamin. “Tough times put incredible stresses on everyone and we knew we had to do everything in our power to reach that goal. The fact that we accomplished what we set out to do shows what hope combined with great effort can achieve, even in—and especially during—the tough times.”

The funds raised in the 2008 campaign will soon reach over 100+ local programs, initiatives and partnerships in support of the five priorities identified by this region as critical to the health and well-being of our community – Children & Youth, Neighbourhoods, Economic Security, Families and Newcomers.

“These five United Way priorities were identified through community research and extensive discussions with the residents in our region,” explained Varner. “Working in these specific areas ensures resources are going directly where they are needed most and where they will have the greatest impact.”

Along with funds, United Way also provides valuable research, skilled staff and dedicated volunteers to help drive efforts in the community.

The United Way of Kitchener Waterloo and Surrounding Area is committed to improving the quality of life for all who live here by building on community resources. Working with the 5 priorities identified by our community as areas of focus, we will continue to ensure funds and resources are intentionally targeted to the places where they are needed most and where they can have the greatest impact.