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By Craig Leroux, Senior Communications Officer

Queen’s launched its annual campaign for the United Way this week with a goal of raising $341,000. The United Way of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington supports a network of agencies that provide vital services to the local community.

Everyone at Queen’s is invited to an official kick-off barbecue on the corner of Union St. and University Ave. on Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 11 am to 4 pm.

“Queen’s staff, faculty, retires and students have a long history of supporting the United Way,” says Nick Graham, a professor in the Queen’s School of Computing and the faculty co-chair for this year’s campaign. “With our help, United Way programs benefit more than 85,000 people in our communities. That’s a huge impact.”

Marie Miller, Senior Planned Giving Officer in Advancement and a staff volunteer on the campaign, says that she gives to the United Way because of the transformational impact it can have on peoples’ lives.

“The United Way gives hope, a sense of belonging and dignity,” says Ms. Miller. “From alleviating hunger and poverty, to providing support to women and children fleeing violence and abuse, the United Way’s programs help to raise up our entire community.”

The Queen’s impact on the United Way’s annual fundraising efforts is substantial, as roughly 15 per cent of all dollars raised in the Kingston area come from the Queen’s campaign. It’s easy to give by simply returning the donation form found in the recent letter sent out to faculty and staff, or by contacting human resources by email or telephone (613-533--6000 ext. 32070).

Queen’s students, staff and faculty are also actively involved in other ways, as volunteers with United Way member agencies, and by participating in events such as the recent food drive held during Homecoming.