United Way Peterborough & District Unveils 2025 Community Campaign Cabinet

The United Way Peterborough & District has announced the members of its 2025 Community Campaign Cabinet on Thursday morning.

Photo courtesy of the United Way/

On May 21, United Way named journalist Paul Rellinger as its 2025 Campaign Chair.

The Cabinet had its first meeting of the campaign season this week. Rellinger says the gathering set the tone for a year of meaningful engagement, collaboration and impact.

“I wish there was a way that all Peterborough city and county residents could have been at the first Cabinet meeting to see, hear and feel the energy and spark I saw, heard and felt,” he explained. “A fierce commitment to building stronger and more equitable communities, where no one is left behind and all are provided the opportunity to thrive, was evident from the get-go. It reminded me that whatever we accomplish, be it with this campaign or with any like endeavour, success is inevitably rooted in the character, compassion and commitment of those driving things forward. We are indeed in the best of hands, fueling my unbridled optimism for a very good campaign result.”

The following are this year’s cabinet members:

• Darcy Bonner, Community Ambassador

• Dr. Michael Eamon, Trent University

• Ann Farquharson, Farquharson Law

• Coby Fewings, Scotiabank

• Dr. Bruce Gibson, Community Ambassador

• Marg Glenn, Glenn Isle Farms

• Sheridan Graham, County of PTBO

• Greg Kidd, KPRDSB

• Richard Lambert, BMO

• Evan Lyons, PRHC

• Laken MacFarlane, City of PTBO

• Vipesh Patel, Community Ambassador

• Dr. Thomas Piggot, HKNP Health Unit

• Amanda Pinder, RBC

• Dr. Stephan Ragaz, Community Ambassador

• Paul Rellinger, 2025 Campaign Chair

• Balkaran Singh Sathi, Sathi Law

• Jeannine Taylor, KawarthaNOW

• Sebastien Tinor-Roy, TD Bank

• Staff Sargeant John Townsend, PTBO Police

• Shirley Turner, EXIT Realty Liftlock

• Danielle Turpin, Community Ambassador

“The people around the table are difference-makers,” Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “They bring vision, compassion and energy to this campaign and we’re incredibly grateful for their leadership.”

The Cabinet will reconvene in September to continue planning for this year’s Campaign Launch, scheduled for the Healthy Planet Arena on Sept. 25.

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United Way's Day of Caring Helped Community Projects Throughout the City

Volunteer teams set out ot help the community’s non-profit organization projects as part of the United Way Peterborough and District Day of Caring on Friday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The annual event sees volunteers from several organizations support local organizations by painting, landscaping, cleaning, organizing and other projects that enhance capacity and uplift vital community spaces according to Jim Russell, United Way CEO.

“This day is all about action and collaboration,” he said. “It’s incredible to see so many businesses and individuals come together to make a tangible difference for local non-profits — it’s community spirit in its purest form.”

This year, around 40 volunteers from Scotiabank, BMO, RBC, CIBC, the Peterborough and District Labour Council and Jani-King of Eastern Ontario aided six community projects, including:

• One City Peterborough Yard work and cleanup projects at separate sites, including 360 Reid St., to help maintain safe and welcoming community spaces

• YES Shelter for Youth and Families Interior painting at the main shelter and the Carriage House Drop-in Centre at 196 Brock St., to brighten spaces for youth and families

• Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough Beautification of the Bridge Site at 210 Wolfe St., including planting, outdoor furniture painting, sweeping, raking, litter collection, and the creation of a plywood gratitude wall

• Peterborough City Councillor Kevin Duguay Garden Box Project Construction of garden boxes at 560 Romaine St., with all proceeds from their sale going to United Way Peterborough

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"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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Trent University Surpasses Fundraising Goal Raising $134,543 For 2024 United Way Campaign

Trent University has exceeded its fundraising goal of $120,000 for United Way Peterborough and District, raising $134,543, announced on Friday.

(From Left to right) (Top) Rona Jualla Van Oudenhoven, Julie Davis, Cathy Bruce, Marcus Harvey and Cris de Clercy. (Bottom) Adele Devlin, Alison Scholl, Elyse Sawdon and MK Millard. The United Way supports 20 partner agencies that address key social challenges, including homelessness, domestic violence, mental health, unemployment and addiction. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“Trent’s United Way campaign is a testament to the power of community. The generosity of Trent’s faculty, staff, and retirees is crucial to building a more resilient, supportive, and inclusive community,” said Dr. Marcus Harvey, executive director of the Trent University Faculty Association and United Way Board Chair. “By supporting the United Way, we make a collective investment in the vital services that provide shelter, food, support, and opportunities for individuals and families throughout the Peterborough and Durham regions.”

The fundraising effort was through employee and retiree donations and special events. The United Way’s ‘Double Your Difference’ gift matching drive gained 36 Trent employees as new donors, resulting in $19,000 through matching, according to a press release.

With the proceeds, United Way can provide 160 nights in a shelter, serve more than 1,400 meals, offer 700 home care visits and create 109 social learning opportunities. This is part of United Way’s $1.5 million campaign goal that was set back in September.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued generosity of the Trent community,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “As valued United Way champions they set the pace for this year’s campaign, inspiring others to give and be part of something bigger. In a time of rising costs that have especially impacted the agencies we fund and the vulnerable clients they serve, Trent’s commitment makes our community a better place to live, work, and thrive.”

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United Way In Final Stretch Of Reaching $1.5 Million Fundraising Goal

United Way Peterborough & District is in the final stretch of its community campaign as it approaches its goal of fundraising $1.5 million, announced on Monday.

United Way had announced its 2025 campaign goal of $1.5 Million to be raised in September last year. Photo by David Tuan bui.

The organization is down to its last $117,000 and have until March to reach the goal since they started in September.

“The work of the campaign is not done yet though; with an ambitious goal of $1.5 million, United Way needs to raise a final $117,000 before March 31st in order to achieve the goal. The campaign goal is so much more than just a number,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “It serves as both a sign of the level of need in our community, but also as a beacon of hope. Achieving the campaign goal means that our community came together, recognized the need, and responded.”

“Being a part of this effort has been truly inspiring,” said Shirley Turner, United Way campaign cabinet. “Seeing our community come together—neighbours, businesses, and even strangers—united by a shared purpose and working hard towards a shared goal is amazing. We set a priority of having fun this campaign and it has paid off.”

All eligible donations made by Feb.28th can be claimed on your 2024 taxes after the federal government extended the deadline.

United Way’s ‘Double Your Difference’ campaign is still in effect. Any Donation made by individuals who did not give in 2023 will be matched entirely. Individuals who gave in 2023 can participate by increasing their gift by 10 per cent or more and the increased amount will be matched.

The public can d onate by March 31 through one or more of the following methods:

• Donate in person at 277 Stewart St. on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

• Donate over the phone by calling 705-742-8839 ext. 3

• Donate online at https://give.unitedway.ca/donate/WPETER

• Purchase tickets to United Way’s upcoming events such as Peterborough Performs and its associated online auction (details to come)

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United Way to Put On Debate For Provincial Candidates This Wednesday

Provincial candidates have been invited to a debate focused on homelessness in our Peterborough community, held at the All Saints’ Anglican Church from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

The debate is put on by United Way of Peterborough & District, One City Peterborough, the Research for Social Change Lab at Trent University and All Saints’ Anglican Church.

It will be open to both in-person and virtual audiences. Questions will be sent in advance to all of the candidates, and community members will be able to ask questions in person and virtually.

Homelessness in Peterborough has been a growing issue for several years, says Jim Russell, CEO of United Way Peterborough & District.

“The issue of homelessness and the ravages it has on those experiencing it, cries out, indeed demands leadership, in particular political leadership. We are keen to hear how these candidates will lead our community in ensuring safe affordable, supportive housing for all,” he said. “It is critical that all candidates of each respective political party speak directly to this crisis.”

He continues to state that the provincial government has a significant mandate over housing in Ontario. With an upcoming election, four community organizations partnered to bring an all-candidates debate on homelessness to Peterborough.

“The starting point for any response to homelessness is to adopt a Human Rights orientation to developing community responses” said Dr. Naomi Nichols of the Research for Social Change Lab. “We are pleased to be collaborating with One City and United Way in hosting this event and look forward to the responses from the candidates.”

“More and more of our neighbours are being pushed into homelessness at an alarming rate,” said Christian Harvey, One City Peterborough executive director. “Whoever leads our province next needs to prioritize a plan to address this in a meaningful way. Few issues are as pressing as this in the City of Peterborough and in our province.”

The following are the candidates running for Peterborough-Kawartha MPP:

• Dave Smith, Conservative (incumbent)

• Jen Deck, NDP

• Adam Hopkins, Liberal

• Lucas Graham, Green party

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PVNCCDSB Raises Nearly $60,000 During Annual United Way Campaign

The Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board (PVNCCDSB) has raised $59,893 for its 2024 United Way campaign to support the latter’s four organizations serving local communities, announced on Wednesday.

File Photo.

Funds were raised through payroll donations and school fundraising initiatives. They included as pumpkin carving contests, soup sales, dress-down days, put-your-principal-to-work raffles and more.

“Housing, food insecurity, domestic violence - these are the types of issues that often keep our staff up at night because they see the need firsthand in our schools and communities,” said Galen Eagle, the Board’s United Way campaign chair. “It’s incredibly empowering to witness the way our staff rally together to address these challenges through our annual United Way campaign. Their dedication to supporting United Way programs is a reflection of their deep care for our students, families, and neighbours.”

“The generosity of our staff speaks volumes about the social justice spirit that defines our Catholic schools,” said Stephen O’Sullivan, director of education. “Rooted in Catholic Social Teachings, our school communities embrace the call to care for the vulnerable and build a just society. This campaign is a testament to the compassion and faith-driven commitment of everyone at PVNC Catholic.”

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United Way Announces 60 Per Cent Fundraising Goal Reached; Launches ‘PJs for United Way’ For Dec. 13

United Way Peterborough & District has revealed that they have reached 60 per cent of its $1.5 million campaign goal and introduced its ‘PJs for United Way’ event set for this Friday.

Photo courtesy of the United Way.

“We are inviting the entire community to participate in Peterborough’s biggest pajama day ever,” said Shirley Turner, United Way campaign chair. “Not only will this event raise funds for the United Way, but it will raise awareness of the United Way. Whether you’re rocking fuzzy slippers, fun onesies, or classic flannel, your $5 will help create real change in our community. Because giving back should feel this good!”

Also known as Peterborough Pajama Day, the event asks participants to donate $5. United Way encourages local businesses and workplaces to share photos on social media in their PJs.

“Our theme for this year’s campaign is Building Community. The funds raised by our donors allow us to support the Peterborough community through essential services like housing support, food programs, and mental health supports,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “But to participate in the United Way campaign as a donor also means you are Building Community yourself. You are Building Community when you decide to join your neighbours and partake in the United Way movement. We are pleased to announce PJs for United Way because it is another way to Build Community this campaign.”

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Peterborough's Housing Crisis Continues to Be Problematic Says United Way

The United Way Peterborough & District’s 19th Edition of Housing is Fundamental report that highlights Peterborough’s worsening rental market according to author Paul Armstrong.

Paul Armstrong authored the Housing is Fundamental report annually. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year’s report analyzes the market and underscores the ongoing challenges posed by housing affordability and accessibility.

Their local key findings include:

• Canada has reached a new low for its vacancy rate at 1.5 per cent

• Peterborough’s vacancy rate remains at 1 per cent

• The average market rent is $1,325 across all units, which is a 6.5 per cent increase from last year

• Three-bedroom units saw the largest increase in average market rents at 7.7 per cent

• The annual income required to afford the average market rent is $53,000

Average Rent In Canada

Average Listed Rents by Unit Type - Feb. 2024

Rent Year-Over-Year Change

The report also recognized these highlights of the rental market in Canada:

• Canada-wide vacancy rate was 1.5 per cent (Oct. 2023), a new low

• Strong rental demand outpaced supply

• Tighter markets with lower affordability

• Rent growth exceeded average wage growth by a wide margin

• Rent arrears increased from 6.5 per cent (2022) to 7.8 per cent (2023)

• Lower-income renters faced below-average vacancy rates for the least expensive apartments

Armstrong highlighted the contributing issues using data from Statistics Canada and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

“When surging rents outpace income increases, something is wrong. When people pay their rent and then find themselves at food banks to eat, something’s amiss,” he said. “When inadequate supply of rental units produces a 1.0 per cent vacancy rate in Peterborough, something has to change. When housing costs are now the primary driver of inflation and 20% of Canadian rental stock is owned by large capital enterprises, something’s inequitable. When homelessness grows, but social housing builds don’t materialize, something’s unjust. The housing crisis deepens with little indication of relief.”

“Housing remains the cornerstone of a healthy and thriving community,” said Jim Russell United Way CEO. “Data is showing us that foodbanks are seeing record high numbers of first-time users. Without stable and affordable housing, individuals face immense barriers in every aspect of their lives, from purchasing food to employment to health. This year’s report is a call to action for all levels of government and community partners.”

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United Way Reaches 30 Per Cent of Fundraising Goal; City Holds Chili Cook-Off & Bake Sale Fundraiser

Twelve chilis and baked goods made by City of Peterborough staff helped raise money for United Way Peterborough & District as the latter has announced that they raised 30 per cent ($450,000) of their $1.5 million fundraising goal at the McDonnel Street Activity Centre on Wednesday.

Mayor Jeff Leal was a judge to try our 12 different chilis made by City of Peterborough staff. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The United Way set its $1.5 million goal on Sept. 11 which runs until March 31.

The announcement occurred during the City of Peterborough's workplace campaign launch event.

“United Way Peterborough & District and the City of Peterborough have had a longstanding partnership which has included running one of the most successful workplace campaigns for a number of years,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Workplace campaigns were threatened by the pandemic, making it difficult to build community and engage employees in the campaign. Today, the City of Peterborough hosting their annual chili cook-off once again is a sign that we are turning over a new page in our community.”

The ‘30%’ signs were made from pictures of chili bowls. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Russell continued emphasizing the importance of hitting the campaign goal based on the community's needs.

“There is a rising need for support services in our community and a dwindling number of other funding sources available to sustain these services,” said Russell. “Participating in the United Way campaign means that you are building community by contributing to the largest non-government funder of social services.”

He continued to speak about the energy he has felt on the campaign trail and the power of the new donation match challenge.

“It has never been as easy as it is today to extend the reach of your gift through the Double Your Difference initiative,” said Russell. “We're finding that the energy of this year's campaign is contagious, with workplaces facilitating more creative employee giving opportunities than we have seen in recent years.”

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