Flag raising kicks off campus United Way campaign

The University of Windsor’s contributions to the United Way of Windsor-Essex play a critical role in making the community a better place, according to the organization’s CEO.

“The university is a very important partner for us and we’re very grateful for all their contributions,” said Penny Marrett, who along with president Alan Wildeman, was on campus yesterday for a flag-raising ceremony to kick off this year’s annual campaign.

The United Way hopes to raise $5.1 million this year, slightly more than the $5 million it raised last year. The university has consistently contributed about $100,000 a year to that total over the last few years, said John McGinlay, a UWindsor health and safety assistant and member of the campus campaign organizing committee.

“We always try to beat whatever we raised the previous year,” he said. “The more we raise, the better it is for the community.”

UWindsor president Alan Wildeman said contributing to the United Way – which financially supported 64 Windsor-Essex organizations last year – is an excellent way for those on campus to connect with those in need.

“We’re very much a part of the community,” he said. “The people who work and study here care very deeply about their community, and taking part in the United Way campaign is a great way to stay engaged with the community they care about.”