"The Work Starts Tomorrow" Journalist Paul Rellinger Announced As United Way Chair For 2025 Community Campaign

Local journalist Paul Rellinger has been named United Way Peterborough & District’s Chair of the 2025 Community Campaign, announced on Wednesday.

Paul Rellinger (left) celebrates his newly-appointed position with his wife Mary (right). Rellinger has been a journalist for 44 years with stints with Peterborough This Week, KawarthaNOW and more. Photo by David Tuan Bui

“I am equal parts humbled and honoured to be tasked with leading the Campaign Cabinet as the United Way embarks on yet another appeal, particularly when I reflect on the quality and dedication of the community leaders who have held this position prior,” said Rellinger.

Rellinger has organized the United Way’s annual fundraising concert, ‘Peterborough Performs,’ which has raised almost $150,000 in the five years it has been running.

“While we can celebrate the success of the past campaign, the need continues, not only for the United Way’s partner agencies but across our communities,” said Rellinger. “The United Way campaign does more than direct much-needed dollars to where they can do the most good. The campaign provides hope for a better tomorrow, all while reinforcing what many of us already know – that this is a community that cares for, and looks after, its own. That this is a community that rejects poverty, homelessness and social injustice in all its forms, and does what it can, what it must, to lessen the burden of those who, for whatever reason, are caught up in the continued spiral of inequity.”

As Chair, Rellinger’s duties include leading a team of volunteer leaders to orchestrate fundraising efforts, strengthen donor engagement and host inclusive community events.

“A Campaign chair is only as good as their cabinet,” he explained. “If you surround yourself with dedicated, capable and fun people who don't mind rolling up their sleeves and take on those tasks, it just becomes not necessarily easier but it becomes successful in the end.”

Rellinger’s thoughtful leadership and heartfelt belief in the power of local action are expected to inspire many to get involved according to Jim Russell, United Way CEO,

“Paul’s dedication and passion for our community are truly inspiring,” he said. “His connection to the organization is rooted in a belief that a thriving community takes collective effort and shared responsibility. He understands that the campaign is not just about raising funds, but rather about igniting hope and creating a shared sense of purpose. We are confident that under his leadership, the 2025 Campaign will be a remarkable success.”

After being appointed chair, Rellinger has not disclosed his priorities when asked as he will attend a two-day United Way conference in Toronto starting Thursday. He says he wants to surpass last year’s fundraising goal and will better understand his goals upon his return.

“$1.5 million+ was great but we can do better and I know we will do better,” he explained. “The work starts tomorrow and it's going to be a full day. I think if you ask me this question next week, I can say ‘yeah, these are the things we're identifying.’”

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