The Queen’s United Way campaign has topped its target, collecting $327,797 for the annual fundraising drive. The initial goal was $310,000.

The overall campaign in support of the United Way of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington raised a record $3,702,100, exceeding its goal of $3,451,000.

“The Queen’s campaign is the single largest workplace campaign in the region,” says Bhavana Varma, president and CEO of the United Way KFLA. “It is a critical part of the annual campaign, raising funds that support thousands of people in the Kingston area. Thank you to all – faculty, staff, retirees, students – who give so generously to help vulnerable people.”

The campaign raises funds to help the United Way support more than 57 programs delivered by 40 agencies that serve approximately 75,000 people in the area.

“The Queen’s United Way campaign supports a diverse group of people in our university community as well as the surrounding area,” says Patty McHenry, co-chair for the Queen’s committee. “Staff, faculty, and students have access to so many resources. This campaign was successful only due to the amazing volunteer work by so many.  We cannot thank all who supported, volunteered and cheered the campaign on.”

Queen’s community members were able to support the United Way through a number of ways including payroll deduction, online pledge, one-time gifts, or taking part in one of the many fundraising events held around campus such as the barbeque organized by the Alma Mater Society (AMS) outside Stauffer Library. Overall, students contributed more than $4,700 to the campaign.

Support came in many forms like Financial Services which raised funds through Blue Jean Fridays and donated socks, hats and mitts to Home Base Housing, a not-for-profit organization that provides a range of safe, affordable housing, emergency shelters and support services to meet the needs of youth, adults and families at risk of homelessness in the Kingston area.

“The United Way of KFLA is addressing the root causes of poverty by bringing ideas as well as volunteers to a problem, and working with the community to solve it,” says Caroline Davis, Vice-Principal (Facilities, Properties, and Sustainability), a board member for United Way Centraide Canada, as well as board‎ chair and member of the campaign cabinet for United Way KFLA. “The campaign helps forward the vision of working towards a better future, building strength in the community and bringing resources and people together.”