In times of uncertainty, we ground ourselves in our mission to build stronger, healthier, and safer communities for all.
Our Interim President and CEO, Dennise Taylor-Gilhen, talks more about the current climate and how you can help make a real difference in this recently published Ottawa Business Journal article:
As I look into the community, I see what many of you are seeing: tariffs, worldwide conflict, and many heated opposing voices in the media we all consume. Add to this the ongoing cost-of-living and mental health crises here at home and it is fair to say that we are living in unsettled, even turbulent times.
It is not surprising that some of us are concerned about the future, or angry with the loudest voices saying destructive things about the values that we hold close to our hearts.
It can be easy to get lost in the noise and feel alone with our thoughts.
I am getting through this by pushing back against the negative messages that permeate our screens and by leaning into who I really believe we are. That has meant making deliberate decisions about how I plan to show up in the world; focusing on kindness, hope, generosity, and sometimes courage.
I am thankful that I work for an organization, United Way East Ontario, that exists to bring our community together to address the toughest challenges. It means that I can put my energy into solutions that we know will work for everyone, even the most vulnerable people in our community.
At United Way, we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with folks on the front lines of our community-wide crises related to poverty, housing and homelessness, mental health and addictions, barriers to child and youth success, and more.
I get to work with volunteers, leaders and organizations, who, every day, are doing everything that they can to make our communities better places – for every child, every senior, every person and every family.
Their work motivates me to be hopeful and generous, especially because I know their ability to do their work depends on all of us to be committed to better solutions.
So, I’m asking you to join me.
You’ve probably heard many leaders in the not-for-profit sector say, “we need you now, more than ever.” The reality is, the demand for basic needs like housing and food, social services, and crisis support is the highest it’s ever been and continues to rise.
It has been encouraging to see recent interest in ‘buy local’ and ‘buy Canadian’ campaigns because it shows that people are willing to put their money where their values are.
We know that regardless of how things continue to evolve, the social challenges we face can only improve when we are united in our purpose.
No one knows what the future holds, but I do know that resilient communities are connected and caring. Neighbours lift each other up, we care about the most vulnerable people who need support, and we all work together to make our region better.
United Way is here to ensure we close the cracks in our community’s foundation before we risk losing those people who depend on us – and we do this through the support of generous donors.
You have the power to help us by choosing to live into compassion, generosity, courage, and hope.
When we are generous with what we have to give, it makes today feel better and will make tomorrow even brighter.
