Dakota Halfpenny, Author at United Way Elgin Middlesex

United Way remembers Deb Peckham

by Dakota Halfpenny on April 20, 2022 Comments Off

Remembering Deb Peckham, Allocations volunteer Member, Leadership Table, London for All

Deb Peckham was a valued and long time volunteer with United Way Elgin Middlesex, sharing her time and expertise in our Community Impact work including grant review processes and the London for All project. We are grateful for Deb’s dedication to our shared poverty reduction and prevention work. She brought energy and passion to volunteering and was deeply committed to collaboration and collective impact.

As a member of the London for All Leadership table, Deb represented the project at regional, provincial and national conferences and events.

She helped ensure London for All was led by people with lived and living experience of poverty and was instrumental in the achievement of many successful project outcomes that have positively impacted people living in London.

We will miss Deb’s spark and insight at the many community planning tables she was involved in especially London’s Child & Youth Network and the London Homeless Coalition.

Thank you Deb. You will be missed.

Want to do good? Join us! Volunteer Board Director Opportunity

Recruiting New Board Directors – Members

by Dakota Halfpenny on February 25, 2022 Comments Off

Posting Deadline: March 18, 2022

We are currently recruiting up to 3 to 4 individuals to join our Board who will be elected at our Annual General Meeting on June 15, 2022.

We are committed to having our Board and committees represent our community. We welcome and encourage the broad range of experiences, skills and knowledge that applicants with diverse abilities, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, and ethnicity bring. It is expected that Directors will champion reconciliation, anti-racism/anti-oppression, diversity, equity and inclusion and apply this lens to their work.

Preferred attributes and competencies:

Although applications are welcome from all interested individuals we particularly welcome applications from individuals with the following attributes or competencies:

Lived or living experience as a member of an equity-seeking population
Individuals who live and/or work in our catchment area of Elgin and Middlesex Counties
Human resources management
Fundraising background or entrepreneurial mindset with experience launching new initiatives and accelerating growth
Public policy and government relations
Finance and / or accounting, CA or CPA designation preferred

These attributes and competencies will be considered through the lens of UWEM’s Board Diversity Policy. Candidates will also be screened to identify potential conflicts of interest.

Responsibilities

The Board of Directors has a governance mandate and is responsible for ensuring the United Way’s mission and strategic plan are achieved. Board members are responsible for:

Providing strategic leadership to United Way, including but not limited to:
- establishing the long-term direction and vision,
- monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the strategic plan,
- overseeing the financial health of the organization, and
- providing business and personal insights to inform major organizational decisions.
Acting as a positive and passionate ambassador for United Way both in the board room and out in the community.
Has a willingness to connect the organization to capital such as:
- financial resources or prospective donors
- policy makers or community leaders
- diverse populations or community issue subject matter experts
Keeping informed about the organization, its issues, and its connection to the community through active participation.

Time Commitment

Board members hold a three-year term, renewable up to three times. During that term, board members are expected to:

Attend monthly board meetings. Meetings typically take place the third Wednesday of the month at 4:30 p.m. Currently board meetings are virtual but once it is safe to do so, meetings will be held in person but with the option to participate virtually.
Participate on one United Way governance or operational committee. Between Board meetings, members are asked to actively work on their committee projects to ensure activities are proceeding according to schedules.
Represent United Way at community events.
Total time commitment of approximately 4 – 6 hours a month plus meeting preparation time.

How to apply:

If you are interested in applying to be become a Board or committee member, send a copy of your resume and a personal statement about why you are interested in joining to BChair@unitedwayem.ca. Your application will be reviewed by our Nominations Committee and we will be in touch with next steps.

About us:

United Way works so that every person in every community across our region has a fair shot at their best life. As the largest non-government funder of essential social services in ElginMiddlesex, we tackle issues linked to poverty and social exclusion through strategic leadership, advocacy and investment in programs proven to get results. Donations stay 100% local, always.

United Way Elgin Middlesex is committed to diversity and encourages applications from people who are Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+, women, persons with disabilities, and other overlooked and underestimated groups.

Advocacy in Action, We stand with #OurLondonFamily graphic

United Way urges support for Our London Family Act

by Dakota Halfpenny on February 25, 2022 Comments Off

We stand with #OurLondonFamily long banner

United Way’s letter to regional MPPs calls on all parties to unite in meaningful action to support The Our London Family Act and ensure legislative changes to end Islamophobia are implemented swiftly.

At United Way Elgin Middlesex, we condemn racism and Islamophobia as it is unjust and wrong. As community builders, we work alongside partners, including government, to ensure that Elgin Middlesex becomes a truly equitable, safe and inclusive place.

The murder of the Afzaal family and the ongoing hate-motivated attacks occurring across our province are an assault on our collective aspirations to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community here in London and region. These acts of violence show we still have significant work to do to root out hate before it causes more harm.

Hate, racism and Islamophobia must be addressed by all political parties in Ontario. All of us have a part to play in moving beyond “thoughts and prayers” and we urge all parties to come together to act swiftly on this call to action by ensuring the proposed legislative changes are implemented in a timely manner.

Together, we continue to grieve for Our London Family and together we must unite in meaningful action to condemn Islamophobia, white supremacy, racism and hate in all its forms. Passing the Our London Family Act is an important first step.

Letter to regional MPPs

Dear MPP Armstrong, MPP Kernaghan, MPP McNaughton, MPP Satlerand, MPP Yurek:

On behalf of United Way Elgin Middlesex, I urge you and your party to support the introduction and passage of the Our London Family Act as proposed by the National Council of Canadian Muslims recently.

In response to the horrific violence on a Muslim family in London, Ontario, in June 2021, the proposed legislation addresses Islamophobia and the systemic discrimination and racism experienced by Muslim Ontarians in six key areas:

Changes to the Ontario education system to ensure children and youth learn about and understand Islamophobia
Changes to the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act to prevent white supremacist groups in the province by from registering as societies; and new legislation to prevent acts of intimidation on provincial property, as well as prevent intimidation tactics targeting worshippers at mosques and other religious institutions
Development of a provincial hate crimes accountability unit to improve reporting of hate crimes, including third-party reporting and provide guidance on appropriate penalties for police officers or officers who discourage reporting of hate crimes
Amendments to the Anti-Racism Act including developing provincial anti-racism councils, conducting regular surveys to understand trends and changes in attitudes regarding Islamophobia and racism and ensuring frontline staff at social services agencies participate in regular training on anti-racism and anti-Islamophobia
Increase hiring and appointments of equity-seeking Ontarians to provincial agencies, boards and commissions and with the Ontario Public Service
Increase the limitation period to five years for those wishing to report an incident of racism or Islamophobia through the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario

Hate, racism and Islamophobia must be addressed by all political parties in Ontario. All of us have a part to play in moving beyond “thoughts and prayers” and as such we urge you and your colleagues to act swiftly on this call to action by ensuring the proposed legislative changes are implemented in a timely manner.

Together we continue to grieve for Our London Family and together we must unite in condemning Islamophobia,white supremacy, racism and hate in all its forms through meaningful action.

Sincerely,

Kelly Ziegner signature

Kelly Ziegner
President & Chief Executive Officer

cc: Mustafa Farooq, CEO, National Council of Canadian Muslims
Bilal Rahhal, Chair, London Muslim Mosque
Aarij Anwer, Director, Religious Affairs, London Muslim Mosque
Nawaz Tahir, Muslim Community Leader

February 11 is 211 Day across Canada

by Dakota Halfpenny on February 10, 2022 Comments Off

Organizations and businesses across Canada are celebrating 211 Day today by turning their lights red to raise awareness and share this incredible resource with as many people as possible. Locally, the Canada Life Building, London Convention Centre, RBC Place, City Hall and the JA Taylor Building will join 38 other local landmarks across the country as they raise awareness for this important, free, 24/7 service that puts help at the tip of your fingers.

Reaching out for help is often the first step, but what happens if you don’t know where to turn? That’s where 211 comes in.

For more information you can visit 211.ca or call the line directly at 2-1-1

211 is a nationwide telephone service available 24 hours a day for individuals looking for non-emergency related support. It is free, confidential and helps people navigate the network of government and community support programs available. Callers reach live Navigators who help them get connected to the resources and support they need for their unique situations.

Navigators are highly trained individuals who know how to ask the right questions to fully assess a person’s need. Many callers are often connected with resources they didn’t even know exist, and will call back looking for more support as additional questions arise. In fact, last year in our region alone 4,754 individuals reached out for help through 211 for issues relating to health, housing, income support, mental health resources, addictions and many more.

United Way Elgin Middlesex has been a proud partner in offering this award-winning service in our region for over a decade. The program launched across London and Middlesex County on October 21, 2011, with an expansion of services into St. Thomas and Elgin County following shortly after in December of that same year.

And it’s no surprise that as of October 15, 2020, the Government of Canada, in partnership with United Way Centraide Canada, announced funding to activate this service nationwide. The government also announced additional funding at that time to support existing 211 services experiencing a surge in demand due to pandemic related causes.

Advocacy in Action. Prioritizing poverty reduction in the 2022 Provincial Budget

United Way joins forces with local nonprofits

by Dakota Halfpenny on February 2, 2022 Comments Off

Alongside other local funders, United Way has penned a letter to the Ontario Minister of Finance emphasizing the need to prioritize poverty reduction in the 2022 Provincial Budget

United Way, alongside other local funding organizations, has sent a budget submission letter addressed to the Ontario Minister of Finance emphasizing the need to prioritize pressing issues like housing affordability, inadequate social assistance rates and implementing the Our London Family Act in the 2022 Provincial Budget.

The letter was written by United Way Elgin Middlesex and signed jointly by leadership from London Community Foundation, Westminster College Foundation and Sisters of St. Joseph in Canada and presents Minister Bethlenfalvy with several action strategies to address the growing need across our region.

“As a strong non-partisan advocate, United Way works to keep important issues front and centre with leaders at all three levels of government, It is our hope that Minister Bethlenfalvy sees the urgency that is before us and prioritizes these strategies as we continue our community’s recovery.”

Kelly Ziegner, President & CEO, United Way Elgin Middlesex

Addressing complex social challenges requires complex strategies. Public policy work, including advocacy and government relations, is part of what United Way does every day.

Dear Minister Bethlenfalvy:

As nonprofit funders deeply connected to our local community, we have come together to share our recommendations on how the Provincial Government can address pressing and systemic social issues through the upcoming budget.

Address housing affordability
Ensuring that all Ontarians have access to adequate housing requires a systems-level approach. Leading up to the Ontario Housing Summit, a consortium of nonprofits who work with those dealing with housing concerns provided 10 recommendations that included:
– Increasing investment in Indigenous housing programs
– Increasing investment to make housing affordable to low-income households
– Making renting more affordable by amending the Residential Tenancies Act
– Giving renters more security by investing in community legal clinics
Increase social assistance rates
While we applaud the government’s recent increases to minimum wage, social assistance rates in our province continue to be woefully inadequate, especially in the context of skyrocketing housing costs. Failure to address this urgent need will delay life stabilization, push people further into the margins, and lead to costlier issues such as homelessness, addictions and health care concerns.
Participate in the National Childcare Plan
The Covid-19 pandemic has affected all parts of the Canadian workforce; but working women more than most. As Ontario moves into pandemic recovery, attention must be paid to the challenges facing working women including access to affordable and high-quality childcare. To ensure a strong economic recovery, we cannot lose the critical economic contribution of working women. We urge the provincial government to continue to negotiate with the federal government to ensure participation in the National childcare plan.
Invest in the implementation of the Our London Family Act
This past June, the London area was rocked by an act of terrorism when a Muslim family was murdered for simply existing in our community. Hate should have no home in our province, and we urge the provincial government to support and allocate adequate investment to ensure the successful implementation of the Our London Family Act as proposed by the National Council of Canadian Muslims.
Expand programs that support decent work and implement paid sick leave for all workers
We appreciate the government’s efforts to protect workers through Bill 27 and the increased focus on employment programs. We encourage increased investment to continue this momentum and for the government to prioritize access to additional paid sick leave so workers do not have to choose between endangering their coworkers and risking their livelihood.
Find a home in provincial government for the nonprofit sector
Nonprofit organizations in Ontario have been at the forefront of fighting COVID-19 and recovery efforts. All Ontarians rely on nonprofits, especially those that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Despite our province’s reliance on the sector, we continue to face challenges related to communication, financial support and participation in decision-making. We urge the provincial government to identify a Ministry or office that the nonprofit sector can work directly with so we can assist the government by sharing our expertise.

We thank you for your thoughtful consideration.

Sincerely,
Kelly Ziegner, President & CEO, United Way Elgin Middlesex
Martha Powell, President & CEO, London Community Foundation
Gloria Rolfe, Executive Director, Westminster College Foundation
Sister Margo Ritchie, Congregational Leader, Sisters of St. Joseph in Canada

Labour Appreciation Awards Night, Rise Above a Night of Hope and Solidarity

Labour Appreciation Award Winners celebrated as heroes of Hope and Solidarity

by Dakota Halfpenny on January 21, 2022 Comments Off

Last night we saw United Way supporters, friends, allies and donors come together to celebrate the incredible efforts of this year’s Labour Appreciation Awards winners. The annual January event hails the efforts and generosity of local Labour activists from across our region. It is a celebration of the work they do in building a united community where everyone matters.

This year’s event, entitled Rise Above: A Night of Hope and Solidarity, was delivered virtually again for the second year in a row due to COVID-19 gathering restrictions, but that didn’t stop these activists from sharing their stories of hope. In total, 14 awards were given out to individuals and groups for their efforts, ranging from organizing collection drives to restocking shelves at local agencies to working tirelessly to fill in the staffing gaps caused by illness during the height of the pandemic.

“Last night, we celebrated the good work of local people in our community who put the needs and care of others before themselves. This is an incredible group of people that has shown they put their personal interests aside to ensure those around them are supported.”

Kelly Ziegner, CEO & President, United Way Elgin Middlesex

Check out our winners.

Guests heard from keynote speaker Candice Dwornick, a United Way Elgin Middlesex 2021 Sponsored Employee from Canada Life. Candice shared her personal story of intimate partner violence and how supports and services from the community gave her the resources she needed to leave her situation and build a good life. Proceeds from the event go towards New Beginnings Loan Fund, a program making a difference in breaking the cycle of familial abuse. Last year, 95 women and children found support for their new beginning through the program.

Virtual guests also heard from musical talent and rising star Aaron Allen. Aaron is a raw singer and songwriter who found his voice with his guitar and donated his time to entertain this year’s award recipients and event attendees.

Miss this years event? Watch as the winners accept their awards below.

The spirit of giving isn’t done yet!

by Dakota Halfpenny on January 13, 2022 Comments Off

Magic of Lights donates $10,000 for local programs and services

Cheque Presentation for Magic of Lights at Victoria Park

It’s looks like the spirit of giving isn’t quite done with the holiday season yet, and that’s good news for our community. Organizers of Magic of Lights, the drive-thru holiday light spectacular, generously contributed $10,000 from the proceeds of the event to be used to help local people in need.

In case you missed the action, Kyla Woodcock of Woodlo Productions and past United Way Campaign Cabinet Chair, together with presenting sponsor Auburn Developments, brought the holiday fun to our community this holiday season. Hosted at Longwoods Conservation area outside Mount Brydges, the light-show saw patrons driving through the park while being treated to a dazzling display of lights and music, all from the safety and warmth of their own vehicles.

The $10,000 donation, made from the event proceeds, were given to United Way yesterday at a cheque presentation highlighting the event.

“The spirit of giving in our community is inspiring. Times have been tough for people, and vulnerable individuals have struggled even more. This donation will be invested in programs and services that address poverty, inequity, intimate partner violence, and mental health concerns – issues that have been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic.”

Kelly Ziegner, CEO & President, United Way Elgin Middlesex

The event drew well over 30,000 families across November and December, and the aim is to have the event become an annual one, with proceeds being marked for United Way funded programs and services operating across our region.

With 100% local gratitude this holiday season

by Dakota Halfpenny on December 14, 2021 Comments Off

The #LoveLove Letter, United Way Elgin Middlesex

local news with impact

Kelly Ziegner, President & CEO United Way Elgin Middlesex

What do the holidays mean to you?

It’s a question we asked local Ojibway artist Michael Cywink as the first snow started falling and we started thinking about celebrations with family and friends, just around the corner.

As a 100% local non-profit organization, United Way shows our local love by supporting hometown suppliers. This year, we commissioned Michael to create a meaningful piece of digital art to share with you in celebration of winter and the holiday season.

Here’s what the holidays mean to him. “Everything changed when my sister gave birth to my nieces,” Michael says. “I get more excited to see them open their presents than I do opening my own. The holidays are all about family and the positive feelings knowing we’ll be able to get together this year. What brings me joy? Family for sure.”

Michael’s joy jumps off the page. He describes his piece as something a bit personal and something everybody can connect to.”

The turtle shell and warm colours represent home. “Home can be anything, it’s not just a building,” he explains. “Home is where you feel safe, loved, appreciated, respected. It can be how you feel with someone. The beautiful thing is, we’re not trees, our roots aren’t planted. You can find that place for yourself.”

The eagle feathers represent value at a time of year that can be a financial strain for so many. “One of the things I value more than anything is an eagle feather my brother gave me,” he says. “I use it with my own smudging and ceremonial stuff I do with Indigenous youth throughout the London area. It has passed through so many hands, powerful in the healing work it’s done so far. It has no monetary value whatsoever but it’s so valuable to me.” Watch this short video to hear more from Michael.

A sense of belonging. A safe home. Simple gestures of kindness and gratitude. Michael’s artistic expression mirrors perfectly my holiday wishes for you and for our community. As we look toward 2022, I look forward to continuing the good things we are doing together to make those wishes come true.

On behalf of everyone at United Way, here’s to a safe and joyful holiday season and a bright new year.

With gratitude,

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From the artist – This holiday edition of the #LocalLove Letter gave us an opportunity to partner with local Indigenous artist Michael Cywink. Michael’s take on winter, holidays and family has us thinking about our own traditions and the new memories we’ll make this year. Learn more from Michael about his artistic vision for the piece.

211 is here for you – We get it, the holidays aren’t a happy time for everyone. Along with the joys of the season, there can be added pressures of higher utility bills, keeping enough food on the table, and finding work. If you need help for you or a loved one, call 2-1-1 to speak to a Navigator who can connect you to information, programs and services close to home. Free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in over 150 languages by phone, live chat and email.

Please support local holiday drives

Many social service agencies across our region are putting out the call for toys, books, food and presents.
Why not consider a gift that gives? Here are just a few.

Anova’s Festive Wishlist – Check out Anova’s most recent Needed Items List or shop their oh-so-handy  Amazon Wish List. Your thoughtful donation, like a pair of cozy slippers or a gift card for a good book or the latest tunes, will be so appreciated by women and children living in a shelter who can’t be home for the holidays. Donations accepted until Dec. 18.

Christmas Care St Thomas – https://christmascarestthomas.com/  
This traditional toy and food drive has supported more than 4,000 families since 1980. Donate new toys, gift cards and food at Elgin Centre, 417 Wellington St. or make a donation on the website. No clothing donations please.

Atlohsa Gifts – Looking for gifts that make a difference? Check out Atlohsa’s Holiday Gift Guide

Aylmer Christmas Care Food Hamper Program and Toy Drive – Drop off non-perishable food items and toys at any of these locations: Hills Pharmacy, Campbell’s Office Pro, Aylmer Valu-Mart, Meridian Credit Union, Port Burwell Post Office, Port Burwell Legion and Aylmer Food Bank – The Corner Cupboard. For more information, call 519-773-5548

Youth Opportunities Unlimited – The holidays are a difficult time for many, but for kids who are street-involved and don’t have a stable family to go home to, it’s especially tough. You can make their day a little brighter by dropping off bus tickets, gift cards, movie passes, hygiene kits, houseware items and new winter clothing at the Youth Action Centre, 332 Richmond St., London Mon-Fri 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. For more info, contact Lynne lynnew@you.ca 519-432-1112 x103 

Gifts of Securities - A win for your and our community

Gift of Securities

by Dakota Halfpenny on December 6, 2021 Comments Off

Save while helping the community

Year end is just around the corner, and with the markets as hot as they are, now is an excellent time to consider a Gift of Securities to help reduce your 2021 annual tax bill while investing in your local community.

The Canada Revenue Agency does not apply capital gains tax on donations of appreciated publicly traded securities. This means that you can benefit greatly to reduce the cost of your charitable giving with a tax offset or to increase the amount of your intended gift, possibly without increasing the cost to you.

As the donor, you’ll receive a donation receipt for the fair market value of the donated security. This amount is determined as the final closing price on the day the gift is received by United Way. Additionally, you’ll continue to receive and benefit from the regular tax deductions of making a charitable donation.

Utilizing this option to reduce the capital gains on appreciated stock could potentially save you a considerable amount – right in time for the holidays!

If you think this option might be right for you, then don’t wait. It does take a little bit longer to transfer your gift to United Way than it does to make a donation of cash, so with the donation deadline of December 31 just around the corner, you don’t want to miss your chance.

Download our Gift of Securities transfer form and speak with your financial planner who can advise you on the most tax effective approach for you.

Our handy Tax Calculator can help you get an idea of how you might be able to further maximize your savings while making a gift. For additional information, you can also take a look at our Gift of Securities FAQ or call Jennepher Cahill 519-280-5452.

Donate now

Shining a light on intimate partner violence

by Dakota Halfpenny on November 17, 2021 Comments Off

local news with impact

Tim Kelly, Executive Director at Changing Ways, an organization that helps individuals end abuse in their relationships, describes the pandemic as the perfect storm. Lockdowns and restrictions these past 19 months only exacerbated the intensity and severity of intimate partner violence in homes across our community, an issue that was already a problem before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. 

While increasing support for women and children is critical—rates of violence have soared 20-30% and the need for services is not slowing down—what is the role of men in ending abuse? It’s a question Tim answers every day. 

Tim and his team at Changing Ways run Caring Dads, a program currently funded by United Way that works with men who cause harm to help them create safety for themselves and their families. 

As soon as the pandemic started, program staff figured out quickly how to keep the work going with men at risk of abusing by providing electronic tablets for clients so they could log in for virtual support meetings and counselling sessions from their car, home or even the bus stop. Learn more from Tim here. 

Dr. Anna Lise Trudell, Manager of Education, Training and Research at Anova, an organization that provides shelter and support for women and children experiencing intimate partner violence, agrees that men are key to ending the violence.

It  is many men doing this violence, she says, often good men who in other ways are doing harmful acts. And it’s going to take other men around them, their friends, colleagues, brothers and fathers, to step into discomfort and call out negative behaviour. 

Frankly, Dr. Trudell concludes, we’re never going to end violence unless men do the work of engaging other men. Hear more from  Anna Lise here. 

Caring dads and safer families. All part of a community where everyone matters. 

Thank you for improving lives locally,

P.S. Do you need help for you or a loved one? Call 211 anytime 24/7 to get connected to supports close to home.

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Shine the Light on Woman Abuse – Every November our community comes together to show support for survivors of abuse, bring attention to the issue of violence against women and girls, and stand in solidarity with the many agencies, organizations and activists working toward a community free from violence and abuse. Here are two ways you can support: Join the London Abused Women’s Centre’s 2021 Shine the Light campaign and Read Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Although the official inquiry concluded in June 2019, the work to transform systemic legal and social causes of violence against Indigenous women and girls, including sexual violence, continues.

United Way advocates for Living Wage — Ontario’s new minimum wage announced earlier this month is a good start, but a living wage that takes into account what people need to live, work and participate in their local community, is the goal. United Way’s Kelly Ziegner weighs in with CBC radio’s Chris dela Torre about the difference a living wage makes to ensure people are not just surviving, but thriving. Listen to the clip here.

Caring Dads — United Way helped keep families safe during the pandemic by providing funds to help Caring Dads deliver remote support to men at risk of abusing. As we start to recover and return to in-person activities, the program is exploring ways to keep the benefits of virtual support meetings and counselling sessions. Learn how Caring Dads is meeting the need for a 30 per cent increase in requests for service.