Best in Show award celebrates Winnipeggers spirit of giving

November 21, 2007 | Community News | Archive 2007

With one report session left in United Way of Winnipeg's campaign season, the challenge before Winnipeggers is to raise $3 million more to meet the fundraising goal.

Heather Grant-Jury, 2007 Campaign Chair was thrilled with Report Session 3 news that Winnipeggers have raised
$ 13 285 604 to date and is determined to reach the goal of almost $16.5 million.

"When the residents of this city set their minds to something, they achieve it," said Grant-Jury. "That spirit and determination is how our founders built Winnipeg into the city it is today and it's exactly how we are going to build it into a safer, stronger and more vibrant city for all its residents in the future."

Report Session 3 was also an opportunity to celebrate Winnipeggers' spirit of giving, specifically the workplaces who go above and beyond the call of duty to raise funds for United Way’s campaign.

The Best in Show award recognizes the most memorable workplace campaign moment.

Finalists, including the Winnipeg Free Press and Great West Life, staged re-enactments of their favourite campaign fundraising moments, but by applause the audience awarded Best in Show to Public Works and Government Services Canada for their Rip-a-Strip off Dan event.

The hirsute Dan Sonmor, Senior Environmental Specialist, literally put his hide on the line allowing his co-workers, with the guidance of aesthetician Dee Anne Daudet, to pay for the privilege of tearing wax strips from their bristling colleague.

Hot 103's Ace Burpee and Chrissy Troy emceed the event.

"Over the last few months, these guys have managed to achieve some amazing results for United Way's campaign," said Burpee. "They've shed blood, sweat and tears."

Grant-Jury honoured Burpee with a special award in the form of a gold record, for his dedication.

"His record level of commitment to United Way and his belief in this city, its people and its future, are inspiring," she said.

United Way's 2007 campaign officially runs until January but there will be one final report session at the Fort Garry Hotel on December 7th.

A message to Winnipeg about United Way's campaign Janury 5, 2012