THUNDER BAY – The United Way of Thunder Bay has released its 2021 Impact Report, announcing that 51,264 local lives were positively impacted in Thunder Bay and region from Kenora to Terrace Bay last year according to the report.
“We’re so thrilled to be able to release our impact report that covers all of 2021. Every year the United Way reaches out to the community, we invite businesses, individuals, families, organizations, community groups to get involved and show their local love for the community by donating, by volunteering,” said Albert Brulé, CEO.
“And then at the end of the year, we’re able to compile all of that information and talk about the partnerships that have been developed, the programs and services that have been supported, and when we actually counted the numbers were over 51,000 people whose lives were positively impacted by your donations, the volunteer efforts of our supporters.”
Due to the support of its donors, the United Way of Thunder Bay says it was able to invest in 40 community initiatives that align with its three Community Impact Goals: People’s Basic Needs Are Met, A Connected and Inclusive Community, and A Community Where All Youth Graduate.
These initiatives funded several local programs across the Northwestern Ontario region including Thunder Bay Counselling Centre, 211 North, Regional Food Distribution Association of Northwestern Ontario, Northwestern Ontario Women’s Centre, Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services, NorthWind Family Ministries, and Elevate Northwestern Ontario.
“In keeping with our commitment to ensure that donations stay 100 per cent local – always – the United Way of Thunder Bay is proud to reinvest in community programs and services that serve those most in need across our catchment area. The hope is that we can foster an environment where neighbours help their neighbours,” said Brule.
“The United Way of Thunder Bay serves communities across the Northwestern Ontario region, including Kenora, Dryden, Balmertown, Pikangikum, Keewatin, Heron Bay, Wabigoon, Pic River First Nation, Rainy River, Fort Frances, Stratton, Barwick, Emo, Devlin, Atikokan, Sioux Lookout, Pickle Lake, Marathon, Schreiber, Manitouwadge, and Terrace Bay.”
The United Way of Thunder Bay also works alongside community partners to fund events that support the community, including Show Your Local Love Day, Novemburger, Catch the Ace, and Run the North.
Through these events, upwards of $165,000 was raised and invested back into the community to support local programming.
“We’re delighted that The United Way of Thunder Bay has impacted so many lives in the region, and it’s all thanks to the support of our donors. Their commitment to making a difference in the community allows us to provide funding for programming that improves the lives of local individuals,” said Jodie Wilson, director of philanthropy and community engagement.
“We look forward to the year ahead where we will continue to focus our efforts on the incredible programs available in the region for those in need.”
To see the United Way of Thunder Bay’s 2021 Impact report, visit their website.
