I Believe in My Community

by Rob Benneian

An organization which raises money to support critical services in Windsor and Essex County took an evening to recognize the accomplishments of its supporters.

United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County held their fourth I Believe in My Community Awards celebration March 28 at Caesars Windsor. The awards, presented annually, “celebrate the amazing achievements” of workplaces, unions and individuals, said United Way director of community impact and development Lorraine Goddard. United Way divides their goals for community improvement into three sub-categories: basic needs, kids and families and creating thriving neighbourhoods.

“Recognizing all the amazing workplaces (and) wonderful individuals that support United Way and the community is really important,” said United Way CEO Penny Marrett. “This is one of our ways to say ‘thank you’ to everyone who has supported us.”

Rob Petroni, 2012 United Way campaign chair, was among those who received recognition for their contributions. Petroni is the business manager for LiUNA Local 625, an international union which won the Labour Award of Distinction.

“United Way helps people one person at a time … United Way basically helps out everyone in the community, over 200,000 this year alone,” Petroni said. “Until I actually took part in the campaign, I had no idea how many people are helped and how many lives are touched.”

Goddard said United Way helps children and adolescents strengthen their academic skills and encourage them to be more physically active. She said United Way plans to use the resources at its disposal to impact change in the community.

“If we all come together, we can really create a positive change and create a really vibrant community,” Goddard said.

United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County has raised nearly $5 million to date.