During my time working for the United Way Bruce Grey, I have had the privilege of witnessing countless heartwarming moments. It is truly gratifying to hear my colleagues describe how they have made a difference in someone’s life. As a proud resident of Owen Sound, a city I have called home for most of my life, I have developed a deep love for this community and its surrounding areas.

Through my association with the United Way, I have had the opportunity to visit numerous picturesque locations such as Tobermory, Lions Head, Wiarton, Sauble Beach, Southampton, Port Elgin, Kincardine, Paisley, Tiverton, Teeswater, Chesley, Hanover, Mildmay, Walkerton, Durham, Flesherton, Dundalk, Markdale, Chatsworth, and Meaford. I eagerly anticipate exploring even more places in the upcoming year!

Reflecting on my current role at the United Way fills me with a profound sense of fulfillment. My primary responsibility is to engage with members of the community, sharing stories and valuable information while garnering financial support for our programs. One aspect of my job that I particularly adore is expressing my sincere gratitude to our generous donors. Each interaction with these individuals embodies compassion, empathy, selflessness, and hope. The sheer energy and positivity that radiates from these encounters is truly electric.

A recent fundraiser comes to mind when thinking about this energy. I volunteered at the Stuff the Ambulance event on December 9th at Walmart in Owen Sound. The amount of people who stopped by and supported SOS on this day was truly amazing. For me, it’s so easy to reflect on the negatives in the world, but that day was a reminder that there are great people willing to help.

The reason why I get to see empathy and compassion daily is because I communicate with our donors.