Dal’s annual United Way campaign is off to a strong start with a flurry of activity on all four campuses. There is, however, a fair distance to go before we reach our $200,000 fundraising goal. If you have yet to make your gift, consider these five reasons to donate to United Way this year:
1. Support an established, accountable organization
United Way has a long history of community commitment. Since 1925 and 1950 respectively, United Way Halifax and United Way Colchester County have maintained strong reputations as transparent, honest organizations.
Like all United Ways, both Halifax and Colchester County chapters select funded agencies based on their alignment with community needs and require those agencies to report on their progress.
United Way Halifax and United Way Colchester have identified key impact strategies they see as essential in moving people from poverty to possibility and building healthy communities.
“Donors can rest assured that their dollars will go to support these impact areas,” explains Shelley Miller, resource development officer at United Way Halifax.
2. Local programs rely on Dal donations
Community organizations across HRM and Colchester County rely on donations from United Way to support their programming.
“Simply put, many of the programs supported by United Way would not run without donations from institutions like Dal,” says Miller. “Dal’s donations make more programs possible.”
3. Donations are tax deductible
When you donate to a charitable organization or a non-profit group, the amount you donate is tax deductible. When you give through payroll deduction, your donation will appear on your T-4, so you don’t have to scramble for receipts come tax season. Just like in life, you get back some of what you give.
4. Giving feels great
Doing good feels good. Research has shown that there are psychological and emotional benefits to giving, evoking an unparalleled feeling of warmth and goodwill.
5. Strengthen your community
With United Way, the money you donate helps people in your neighbourhood. This may include friends, family members, or even yourself. (Here's just one example we profiled last year on Dal News.)
“You’d be surprised to see how many community programs are supported by United Way,” says Miller. “Chances are good that you or someone you know has accessed a program supported by United Way, likely without even knowing it.”
Do you live in Spryfield? Your neighbours might spend their weekends at the Urban Farm Museum. Do you have an elderly relative in the HRM? Perhaps they’ve enjoyed Bingo or karaoke at Spencer House. You may have even attended a retreat at Tatamagouche Centre. All of these organizations are supported by United Way.
“HRM and Colchester County are better because of Dal’s generous donations,” said Miller. “We hope you’ll consider being part of it.”
To donate to Dalhousie’s United Way campaign, please visit its website.
Comments
comments powered by Disqus