Ready, Set, GOAL!
September 19, 2008 | Community News
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United Way's 2008 Campaign Takes Flight
United Way of Winnipeg officially kicked-off our 2008 Campaign on Friday, September 19, 2008 with the announcement of another bold fundraising goal - one that aims to soar over last year's lofty campaign achievement by almost $1 million.
Our target destination this year: $17 875 768!
With help from United Way's 2008 Campaign Cabinet, Chair Bob Silver delivered the news to more than 1500 Winnipeggers, including Manitoba Premier Gary Doer, who came together for the event at Stevenson Aviation & Aerospace Training Centre.
"This campaign is a celebration of unity," said Bob Silver. "We must all be on board if we're going to make really great things happen in Winnipeg."
"When we work together, united, we can do so much more to effect change than we ever could alone – change that affects us all."
Attendees also heard from Premier Doer. The Province of Manitoba is a key supporter of United Way, providing an annual grant that supports fundraising and administrative costs. The Province's support means every dollar of every donation is invested directly in our community.
Although kick-off marks the official start, Campaign 2008 is already well on its way thanks to Pacesetter workplaces who exemplify leadership by completing their campaigns early. As a result of their hard work and enthusiasm, United Way has already raised $ 6 472 702, and achieved 36 per cent of our goal.
The real fun began following the formalities, when 40 teams representing Winnipeg's business, labour, government and non-profit sectors competed in Plane Pull 5: United.
Propelled by a tasty barbeque lunch, 20 teams, including a team of media all-stars, battled in the Competitive Pull for the fastest time hauling a 191 000 lb Boeing 747.
Another 20 teams were set to show their community spirit by towing a 90 000 lb McDonnell Douglas DC-9 in the Fun Pull. But minutes from go time, gremlins put the plane out of commission and a substitute had to be found. Winnipeg Airports Authority came through in flying colours with a gigantic snowplow, an ideal surrogate where this group of Winterpeggers were concerned.
"The Plane Pull is a great way to kick off our campaign because it shows that it takes an entire team of people pulling together to get the job done," said Bob Silver.
NAV CANADA maneuvered its way to number one in the Competitive Pull. And in the Fun Pull Ceridian earned top spot for the second year running. Team Theme, the best costumes for the day went to RBC Financial Group and Team Scream, best chant or cheer, went to Johnston Group.
By pulling together, united, Winnipeggers can create opportunities for a better life for everyone in our city. Let's make United Way's 2008 campaign a soaring success!
Check out the winners and pull times!
United Way releases second scan of Aboriginal life in Winnipeg June 23, 2010
Annual luncheon captures ripple effect in motion June 17, 2010
From youth mentor to woman of distinction May 3, 2010
Without volunteers, there would be no way April 23, 2010
2009 Spirit Award winners shine bright April 8, 2010
Looking back at the Holidays with GenNext February 26, 2010
Introducing Gregg Hanson - United Way's 2010 Campaign Chair February 11, 2010
General Byng voted Best in Show February 1, 2010
Hope. Stability. Opportunity. Because of you, there is a way. January 14, 2010
Every penny counts January 8, 2010
GenNext paints the town red January 4, 2010
