I hope you are well and filled with excitement for the summer ahead!
I am happy to share some news from the heart of our community. At United Way, we’ve always believed in the power of unity, and today, we’re thrilled to share with you a monumental step we’ve taken toward maximizing our impact and strengthening our region.
We are one of seven United Ways across the Maritimes unifying into one organization! This new United Way will be known as United Way Maritimes and will serve PEI, Central & Southwestern New Brunswick, & Mainland Nova Scotia.
As of June 1, 2024, the boards of directors and memberships of United Way Central New Brunswick, United Way of Colchester County, United Way Halifax, United Way of Lunenburg County, United Way of Pictou County, United Way PEI, and United Way Saint John, Kings & Charlotte have passed resolutions to legally come together as one organization. This is not just about consolidation; it’s about amplifying our collective strength to drive positive change in our communities.
We’re currently in the process of finalizing legal and financial steps, with our anticipated legal day one set for early July. This new regional organization represents a significant opportunity for us to streamline our operations, maximize staff time and talents, and forge new and transformative philanthropic and corporate social impact partnerships.
Ultimately, this will lead to greater impact in your community and communities across the Maritime provinces.
Throughout this journey, we’ve been deliberate in addressing the needs and concerns of our staff, board members, and the community at large. Our design principles reflect our unwavering commitment to local impact, ensuring that locally raised funds are invested locally, decisions are informed by local knowledge, and our staff and volunteer presence remains strong in each geographic location.
Moreover, we have been dedicated to ensuring every employee currently employed by each of the seven United Ways was offered meaningful employment within the new regional organization, and we can report that all have now been placed in new positions that align with their interests, skills, and experience.
What does this unification mean for you as a valued donor? Your United Way will remain yours, only now, it will be even stronger.
We’re excited about the possibilities that lie ahead as we continue to strengthen and advocate for the social impact sector, increase our investment in local communities, and streamline operations with regional governance and strong financial oversight.
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to building a better future for everyone who calls our community home.
We can’t wait to share more information with you as our unification is finalized.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, please read this Q&A or reach out! I would value the opportunity to chat with you about this exciting new endeavour.
Together, we’re stronger, and together, we’re united for impact.
Sincerely,
Alexya Heelis
Executive Director
United Way Saint John Kings and Charlotte