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The Star shines a spotlight on our work

Dear Friend,

This fall, we were so excited to launch our new campaign: Any way we can.

Four simple words with big meaning. A rallying cry and a call to action. A brand promise to fight local poverty and do whatever it takes to ensure everyone, in every neighbourhood, has everything they need to thrive.

And from Peel to Toronto to York Region, we’re putting those words into action, determined in our 10-year ambition to transform the GTA.

Each day, we are digging deeper into the issues and challenges facing our community like never before, and we are so grateful to steadfast partners like the Toronto Star, who help us share the vital impact of our efforts together.

I invite you to take a read of the articles from the recently published Toronto Star special edition. From strengthening our social service sector and enabling employment solutions to helping at-risk youth find housing and welcoming newcomers to their new home and more, I hope these stories will leave you inspired and proud of our collective work.

Here at United Way, we truly believe that building a stronger, more inclusive and equitable GTA for all is possible and together with your support, we’re working hard to make it a reality. Any way we can.

With sincere appreciation for your support,

Alka Graham

Alka Graham
Director, Marketing, Donor Experience & Events


2024 Partnership Content - The Toronto Star
Lisa Gonsalves, board chair of United Way Greater Toronto, smiles and looks into the camera.

Building a stronger GTA

By 2035, the GTA’s population is expected to reach 9 million. United Way Greater Toronto is evolving to meet the needs of a growing population through research, strategic partnerships and innovative solutions. See how we’re working to ensure everyone has access to vital supports and equitable opportunities as our communities expand.


A group of people standing around a man sawing a piece of wood.

Creating pathways to employment

We’re tackling employment barriers with a multi-pronged approach, connecting people from communities that have been structurally marginalized to good jobs. As a funder, collaborator and connector, United Way is creating pathways for newcomers, women in shelters, people with disabilities and those entering the trades. Discover how we’re building a more equitable workforce across the GTA.

Michelle Dagnino, the executive director of the Jane/Finch Centre, sits on the floor of a playroom and smiles at the camera.

Driving community-led neighbourhood solutions

With an integrated approach that brings together residents, the private sector and the city, United Way is strengthening neighbourhoods across Peel, Toronto and York Region. United, we’re driving innovative solutions in our communities to foster economic growth. Find out how we’re building thriving neighbourhoods for all.


Dagma Koyi, founder of REST Centres, stands in front of a playground and smiles at the camera.

Addressing homelessness with lasting solutions

We are tackling critical challenges in our community like homelessness and supportive housing with collaborative, cross-sector solutions. Together, we’re providing at-risk youth with the stable housing they need, building a foundation for a brighter future and stronger communities. Discover how we’re partnering with key sectors to make an impact where it’s needed most.

A group of Indigenous youth from ENAGB Indigenous Youth Agency stand in a wooded area and smile at the camera.

Advancing reconciliation through partnership

The Indigenous Partnership Council fosters meaningful collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations. By supporting Indigenous-led and –serving agencies, United Way is building trust and advancing reconciliation with our Indigenous partners. Learn how we’re working with and supporting First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples as they lead culturally-responsive solutions within their communities.


Nicole McVan, vice president of philanthropy and marketing at United Way Greater Toronto, speaks to a room full of people.

Mobilizing people to help strengthen our social services

We’re harnessing social capital to drive lasting change for individuals and in the wider community. By mobilizing people across workplaces and in community, we’re leading change and investing in the sustainability of the social services sector. Find out how, together with our partners, we’re making a difference.

Ruth Crammond, United Way Greater Toronto’s vice-president of community infrastructure (left) is shown with Michelle Joseph, CEO of Unison Health & Community Services.

Securing space for community services

As rental costs skyrocket and rapid growth threatens to displace local agencies, United Way Greater Toronto is stepping up to secure long-term stability for vital services. Building on more than 55 years of investment in social service agencies, we’re making bold moves in Community Real Estate to protect the services that neighbourhoods rely on every day. Find out how we’re safeguarding these vital community spaces for the future.

IN COMMUNITY, WITH COMMUNITY

People smiling and climbing the stairs of the CN Tower.
A red graphic on a white background of a gift with times two next to it.

Building community takes community.

With your support, With your support, we will build a GTA where everyone has what they need to thrive. u003cstrongu003eAny way we canu003c/strongu003e. Learn more about our work. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular updates about how your local love is making a difference across the GTA.

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