Laurentian's United Way campaign brings in $48K

The Laurentian University community handed over a cheque for $48,265 and change to United Way Sudbury and Nipissing Districts Feb. 3.

The university has raised $250,000 for the United Way — which supports more than 30 local charities and social service agencies — over the past five years.

United Way Sudbury and Nipissing Districts recently announced they've brought in more than $4.3 million in two years, thanks to the efforts of organizations such as the university.

“Thank you so very much,” Lisa Bonin, the United Way's campaign vice-chair this past year, who will take on the role of campaign chair for 2015.

“Your donation, it's not simply a donation. It's an investment in our community, an investment for the people who are less fortunate who need it.”

The campaign was led by Valerie Charbonneau, Laurentian's manager of recreational programming, and Erik Labrosse, the university's student life director.

They planned fundraising events such as a Christmas luncheon and auction. Individual donations were also made through payroll deductions.

During the fundraisers, “you felt that sense in the room where we felt like we were part of something positive and we were leaders in our community,” Charbonneau said.

Laurentian president Dominic Giroux said the donation is “outstanding.”

“I'm always amazed at the energy and the creativity the faculty, staff and students demonstrate through the annual United Way campaign, and this year is no exception,” he said.