UBC Reports | Vol. 46 | No. 15 | October 05, 2000

United -- the only way to go

The United Way campaign is all about helping others

You are never too busy to take part in the United Way, say organizers of UBC's campus campaign. And it's never been easier to get involved. "The main campaign will run from Oct. 16-27," says Bill McMichael, program co-ordinator with the UBC-Ritsumeikan Academic Exchange Program and UBC campaign chair. "But there will be a number of related events occurring before and after, including car washes, contests and competitions, pancake breakfasts and bake sales. And many more events like these are in the works."

Organizers are hoping to raise more than $300,000 at UBC. They also hope to contribute to building a stronger sense of community at the university during the campaign.

Pledge cards will be mailed out next week.

"It's vital that all parts of the community work together to help those in need," says UBC President Martha Piper, who is serving as chair this year of the education division of the provincial United Way campaign.

"Whatever our job or profession, we need to accept the responsibility of helping others less fortunate than ourselves, and through our contributions to United Way we can make a huge difference in people's lives," says Piper, who has volunteered to chair the Lower Mainland campaign next year.

One in three people in the Lower Mainland have used the services of a United Way member agency or service. All of the money raised in the Lower Mainland remains within the area.

UBC has the largest employee campaign in the Lower Mainland.

UBC faculty and staff have the option of supporting individual UBCfaculty or department initiatives as well as any of the areas outlined in the Trek 2000 vision document through the United Way.

Initiatives include student scholarships and innovative learning opportunities. One hundred per cent of the contribution will go to the area specified on the form.

The winner of this year's race will win airfare to anywhere in North America. Tickets can be purchased for two dollars from any UBC United Way representative.

To volunteer for the campus campaign or for more information visit the Web site at www.unitedway.ubc.ca or call 604-822-8929.