About

The University of Waterloo has been a proud supporter of United Way for decades – giving back to the community that we call home: Waterloo Region.

We’re proud to say that we have raised millions of dollars for this worthy organization, one that helps the people of our community who hail from all walks of life. From the young to the aged, those in poverty and those who need a helping hand, to those who seek assistance from an illness or disability – we know that a properly supported community is a thriving community.

In order to raise funds for United Way every year, we rely upon a network of talented and dedicated volunteers who provide the background coordination, communication, and organization that makes this annual campaign a success. We also rely upon tireless and creative volunteers who organize fundraising events, sales, and activities.

So, who are these incredible people? We’ve broken it down for you.

Area Representatives

These volunteers are the backbone of our campaign – those who come up with fun events, sales, and activities that drive a strong percentage of our annual fundraising efforts. With a goal of securing representation from every department and area on campus, we currently have 63 area representatives. Past fundraising activities include: card tournaments, pancake breakfasts, bingo games, and last year’s President Hamdul-lather’s Natural Handcrafted Soap

United Way Core Committee

Working year-round is our United Way Core Committee volunteers – staff and faculty from the various departments who coordinate the behind-the-scenes work that make each annual campaign a success. The 15-person committee meets monthly during the year, bi-weekly when the campaign starts to ramp up, and weekly during our October campaign month. The committee comprises of these sub-groups:

• Administration (including representation from the United Way)
• Campaign Co-chairs (one staff, one faculty representation)
• Communications
• Events
• Volunteers

Senior Leadership

Our senior leadership on campus supports these volunteers within the University of Waterloo’s United Way campaign. They also volunteer their time, energy, and passion to ensure every campaign is a success. From the Decanal March (March of the Deans), to dishing out soup at our popular Souper Thursday, to President and Vice-Chancellor Feridun Hamdullahpur’s inspirational speech at the President’s Lunch, our senior leadership team is actively involved in all that we do to raise funds for the United Way.