By: Jillian Lawrie, Senior Manager, Communications & Advocacy
Across Waterloo Region, lives are being changed every day, quietly but powerfully, because people have come together under the United Way umbrella to support one another. Last year, programs supported nearly 300,000 individuals and families across 73 local non-profit organizations.
At the heart of this work is a belief that United is the way no one is left behind. Working to ensuring that all people have equitable access to vital programs and services, from food security and mental health supports to safe shelter and newcomer assistance. For over 80 years, United Way has been working here in Waterloo Region to improve lives and strengthen our community.
Programs funded not only respond to urgent needs, they work upstream to strengthen the social sector and advocate for improved policies and supports at all levels. United Way is a proud participant in the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness (PECH) in Waterloo Region, collaborating with local governments and service providers to build sustainable solutions for housing insecurity. Because united is the way we build systems that support dignity and belonging.
United Way is also a stable and connected voice for the nonprofit sector at the provincial and federal levels, advocating in a non-partisan way for policies that protect and empower the most vulnerable among us. From emergency funding for essential services to longer-term commitments for community wellbeing, our role is to help ensure that the social sector is heard, respected, and equipped to deliver impact.
From large public-facing events like the March of 1,000 Umbrellas, which kicks off our annual campaign each September, to Golf for a Cause and Corporate Trivia, and even smaller workplace-led raffles, we create ongoing opportunities for people to engage and support us. These events draw attention to community needs and the power of coming together.
Now, as economic concerns deepen, particularly around trade and tariffs affecting our region’s manufacturing base, United Way Waterloo Region doubling down on our commitment to the people who call this place home. With a sharp focus and a compassionate heart, United Way continues to bring partners together to address the complex, interwoven challenges our community faces.
Our leadership reflects the strength and inspiration found across this region. Joan Fisk, our CEO, was recently honoured as the Oktoberfest Woman of the Year for Lifetime Achievement, a testament to decades of leadership, advocacy, and service. At the same time, Brooke Ferrera, a rising force in our organization, was selected as a One Young World Delegate, joining a global cohort of young leaders working for change. Their achievements are a reflection of the values we hold dear—that leadership is about lifting others, creating space, and driving meaningful impact.
This work isn’t easy, and it isn’t fast; however, it is necessary and it is only possible because of donors, volunteers, advocates, and partners who believe that real change is made when we act together.
United is the way we invest with care.
United is the way we advocate with courage.
United is the way we celebrate leadership and nurture the next generation.
United is the way we move forward together.
Learn more and support their work at www.uwaywrc.ca.