Government Employees Fundraise for United Way

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Government employees are giving back to the communities in which they live and work by raising money for United Way.

The provincial government’s annual workplace campaign kicked off with a splash today, Sept. 8, as more than 50 swimmers crossed the Halifax harbour. Swimmers also crossed Sydney, Yarmouth and Lunenburg harbours, and the Strait of Canso as part of the kickoff.

“Every year employees show their commitment to building healthy, vibrant communities and improving the lives of families across Nova Scotia,” said Jeff Conrad, deputy minister of Internal Services and this year’s campaign lead. “We rise to the challenge because we want to make a difference for Nova Scotians.”

This year’s goal is to raise $525,000 for United Way organizations across Nova Scotia.

Money raised will help United Way provide stable funding to more than 50 agencies and 100 programs across Nova Scotia, including after school programming, literacy, employment training and family resource delivery. Funds raised by employees will stay in their communities.

“The provincial government’s harbour swim events have become an exciting tradition that signal the kick-off to another campaign season at United Ways across our province,” said Sara Napier, president and CEO of United Way Halifax. “We are truly honoured to be the recipients of the provincial employees’ generosity – be it time, gifts or passion. Every effort they put forth further demonstrates their commitment to strengthening the communities where we live, work and raise our families.”

The provincial government has supported United Way for more than 60 years. The 2017 campaign wraps up Nov. 24.

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Source: Release