"We're getting tremendous support across campus," says campaign co-chair Margaret Sayer of University Computing Services. "All of the volunteers believe we can do it. We've had pancake breakfasts,dunk tanks and bake sales. But our greatest support comes from all of the people who pledge their support through one-time gifts and payroll deduction."
Sayer points out that a small donation from each pay cheque will total a very significant donation over the course of a year. The tax-deductible amount will appear on the donor's T4 slip, meaning there is no danger of losing a receipt.
"The most important thing," says Sayer, "is that our gifts to United Way do so much for our community. Over the next year, one in three people in the Lower Mainland will benefit from the services of a United Way member agency. That helps our families, friends, neighbours, and all of us. That's pretty amazing."
UBC traditionally has the largest employee campaign in the Lower Mainland. In addition, the university is the fifth most designated charity through the United Way campaign.
Donors may choose to support the United Way of the Lower Mainland, or designate specific gifts to any of its 99 member agencies, or any other registered charity in Canada. No fees are deducted for designated gifts.