United Way opens new office, receives Trillium Funding

On Friday morning, dignitaries of all stripes and colors joined together to celebrate the grand opening of the first United Way office in the Nipissing District, located in the Kennedy Building at 222 McIntryre Street West (1st floor) in North Bay.

Suzanne Hawes, Community Capacity Coordinator for United Way Sudbury and Nipissing Districts, introduced MPP Vic Fedeli to the crowd as he announced a $103,500 Ontario Trillium Foundation Grant that is assisting in the service's start-up.

"United Way has a well-established tradition of providing financial assistance to local non-profit agencies to assist communities everywhere," stated Fedeli.

"It's pleasing to see they've chosen to bring their legacy of good work here and enhance their presence in Nipissing."

A ceremonial ribbon cutting and photo op with the MPP, OTF representative Donna Maitland, Mayor Al McDonald as well as United Way's board representative John Closs and Michael Cullen, Executive Director for United Way.

A leading grant maker in Canada, the Ontario Trillium Foundation serves as a catalyst that enables Ontarians to work together to enhance the quality of life in their communities.

"We are pleased to be working with the Trillium Foundation on this project," says Cullen.

"This allows us to build stronger relationships with North Bay donors to inform them that the dollars donated to United Way in the Nipissing District go right back into supporting much needed programs in North Bay and area."

The United Way, with their ongoing encouragement to the community, has identified North Bay's priorities and with the help of their volunteers, have come to the recommendations for funding 5 local service programs.

Along with the new office and staff person, United Way has officially changed its name from United Way Sudbury and District to United Way Sudbury and Nipissing Districts.