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With 1.4 million residents in a rapidly growing city, our local communities face issues that are often complex and ever changing. In the past few years, Calgarians have been thrust into situations many could never have imagined, let alone prepare for.

United Way of Calgary and Area is a non-for-profit organization that exists to improve the lives of Calgary’s vulnerable communities. United Way operates through a strong network of social services and believes in improving lives locally. Everyone should have access to support and services when they need them. 

“Demand for the work United Way does has increased in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic,” says John Alho, associate vice-president, government relations and co-chair of UCalgary’s 2022 United Way workplace campaign.

Now more than ever Calgarians are struggling to make ends meet and support their families.

In 2021, it was determined that one in 10 Calgarians are living below the poverty line. There is a growing need in Calgary’s communities for relief and it is a need that both UCalgary and United Way are seeking to meet.

Each year, the UCalgary community has shown up for our local communities alongside United Way. As of 2022, together we have helped United Way invest $42 million back into our communities. That money has helped more than 160,000 Calgarians.

“Research is being done in a range of fields at UCalgary, all with the same goals as United Way of helping kids succeed, raising people out of poverty and finding solutions to some of the toughest problems communities face,” says Dr. Ellen Perrault, dean, Faculty of Social Work and co-chair of UCalgary’s 2022 workplace campaign.

“In many cases, such as through the UCeed Social Impact Fund, this work is partially funded by donations made to United Way.”

Last year, UCalgary faculty, staff and volunteers raised $431,245, with every penny raised through the campaign going toward supporting the United Way’s local partner agencies. 

Where you can donate

This year’s UCalgary United Way campaign starts now and runs until Dec. 9. Faculty and staff can help address the needs of our community by To donate, log in with your UCalgary email address and password.