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We have all been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but we have not all been impacted equally. Job loss, isolation and increased stress and anxiety have affected vulnerable populations most of all, and our community needs support.

You can make a difference by contributing to ��ݮ����Ƶ����’s United Way campaign, which runs from today until Dec. 11. Karen Jackson, general counsel and executive sponsor of ��ݮ����Ƶ����’s , says events and initiatives may look a little different this year due to public health restrictions, but the community spirit is as strong as ever.

“Each year, I am so proud of the way our university community comes together to raise funds and awareness for this important cause,” says Jackson. “Our campaign is always marked with fun and creativity. While we can’t do everything as usual this year, we still have an amazing opportunity to show our passion for giving back, being involved and being good neighbours to all Calgarians.”

In 2019, ��ݮ����Ƶ���� broke its own record once again and surpassed the $600,000 campaign goal by $125,000. The 2020 goal is set for $600,000 again.

Every donation makes a difference — 20 for 2020

The easiest way to is to set up a payroll deduction — just set your donation amount once and don’t think about it again until tax season, when you claim your contributions.

This year, ��ݮ����Ƶ���� is challenging the campus community to take part in the 20 for 2020 initiative. If you haven’t given before, choose to make a difference with a $20 contribution. If you donate monthly or annually, increase your contribution amount by $20 or even 20 per cent.

“The goal of the 20 for 2020 challenge is to acknowledge that this has been a particularly difficult year for our neighbours who were already struggling,” says Dr. Cindy Graham, vice dean of the Faculty of Science and co-chair of ��ݮ����Ƶ����’s 2020 campaign. “We know that every donation counts — no matter the size. Together, we can turn just $20 into valuable support that our community needs right now.”

Leadership donors double the impact

United Way will match all new ($100-plus per month) — that means your donation will go twice as far to ensure important services are available for kids, families, and individuals, when and where they need them.

“Leadership donations make a huge impact in our community,” says Dr. Natasha Kenny, senior director in the Taylor Institute of Teaching and Learning and co-chair of ��ݮ����Ƶ����’s 2020 campaign. “A leadership-level donation can provide breakfast for 576 homeless youth. When that donation is matched, you literally double your impact — that means breakfast for 1,152 young Calgarians in need.”

Leadership Donor match details:

• First time Leadership Donor? When you make a first-time donation of $1,200-plus, or $100-plus monthly, your gift will be matched dollar for dollar.
• Existing Leadership Donor? If you increase your gift, the growth portion of your donation will be matched.

Show your local love

Having a common purpose brings us together, makes us stronger and creates community. That might look like helping local families put food on the table, connecting Calgarians with crucial mental health services, or giving people a sense of belonging and inclusion. When we stand united to help others, we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and create ripples of positive impact.

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If you have questions or require assistance with donating, contact DJ Kelly, manager, community engagement at 403-220-3152 or dj.kelly@ucalgary.ca