March 29, 2024

By BEN STODDARD

Conestoga College fell short of its United Way fundraiser goal this year.
The college raised almost $44,000 of the $50,000 goal through student-led events, staff bingo, draws and pledges. Still to come in and be added to the total is $500 from residence and $470 from a Taco Lunch.
Jennifer Lowes, a Conestoga human resources assistant, said that staff participation was low.
“It wasn’t just the participation rate for support staff that was low,” Lowes said. “Administration and faculty contributions dropped.” She attributed this to the staff strike and the family campaign.
“Many gave to the family campaign and didn’t have the funds to give to United Way.”
Conestoga’s Family Campaign is asking employees to donate money as an investment in students, in the community and in the college’s future. The campaign goal is $800,000, of which $700,310 has already been raised.
“We are still pleased with our fundraising,” Lowes said.
While the campaign is officially over, there is still a raffle draw for a Playstation 3 and a notebook computer this week. The Conestoga Gamer’s Club is also holding a game day tomorrow from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Almost $2,900 was raised from student-run events, such as the Minute to Win It on Oct. 20.
United Way of Kitchener Waterloo and Area itself is expecting to receive only $4.9 million of its $6-million goal for their fall campaign this year.

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