Ellen Gallant works in an organization of more than 3,500 people in Renfrew County, where many employees quietly support their local communities through United Way East Ontario, without ever meeting her.
Ellen is the United Way Campaign Lead at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL). It’s an opportunity she said has meant a lot to her, as it’s not only deepened her connection with her community, but allowed her to get a closer look at how United Way affects people’s lives.
“Last year, I was on a tour of a facility when I recognized the name of someone who was a large contributor to our annual campaign,” she recalls. “I said to him, ‘You know, we are really grateful for your contribution every year to our annual United Way campaign, but why don’t you take part in the payroll package or take any of the free items you would receive for being donating?’”
His answer stayed with her: He said he doesn’t do it to get a free breakfast at work, or for any recognition, he does it because, as a kid, he used a community service that had funding from United Way, and he promised that he would always give back to the organization that helped him when he needed it.
Knowing donations stay local, key for CNL employees
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories has been a proud supporter of United Way for many years.
“We have always chosen to fundraise for United Way because it’s important for the funding to stay in our community,” Ellen explains. “We have employees living all over Renfrew County, so having the funds spread out to all of the communities is important to our employees and our organization.”
By raising funds through United Way East Ontario, CNL ensures that gifts support local programs right where people live, work, and raise their families.
“The campaign that we run at Chalk River Laboratories contributes to the area that I grew up in, and am also raising my young family in. I love to see how the impact of our work can change the lives of people right here at home.”
Volunteering to gain leadership skills, growth, and connection
Ellen says her role as a Campaign Lead has helped her grow both personally and professionally.
“My experience leading the United Way campaign allowed me to network and meet employees across our Chalk River site and even at our other locations in different counties and provinces,” she shares. “Running the campaign is a great opportunity for people to be creative, work together in a team, and also build long lasting relationships in the workplace.”
She encourages others to get involved, noting that volunteering for a workplace campaign can be a powerful way to step up, build confidence, and connect with coworkers in a meaningful way.
