United Way Leeds and Grenville launches 2025 campaign with $354K in local funding
United Way Leeds & Grenville (UWLG) officially kicked off its 2025 campaign, Hope Starts with You, during a sold-out volunteer breakfast held Thursday, May 1 at the Brockville Country Club.
More than 100 supporters, volunteers, agency partners, and community leaders gathered for the event, which highlighted the power of collective impact and marked the start of United Way’s annual fundraising and awareness efforts.
“There is incredible energy in the room this morning,” said Board Chair Ian McFall during opening remarks. “This is volunteer week in Canada. Volunteers make waves. A big thank you to all in attendance today, for your spirit of giving and volunteerism.”
Sponsored by Brockville Hyundai, the morning featured remarks from guest speakers David Beatty, Chris Curry, and Jordi Wills, who each shared personal stories reflecting the campaign’s message of hope and community leadership.
Attendees were gifted symbolic seed pods—donated by Developmental Services of Leeds & Grenville (DSLG)—representing how small acts of kindness can grow into lasting change.
As part of the event, UWLG presented its 2024 Volunteer Awards to individuals and organizations for outstanding service and generosity, including sector-based Chairs Cup workplace awards and special recognition awards:
Chairs Cup Recipients:
- Finance: TD Bank Brockville
- Industrial: 3M Canada, Brockville
- Public Service: Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign
- Health & Social Service: Leeds Grenville Community Family Health Team
- Rural Strong Award: Stoodley’s Kitchen and Beverage
Special Volunteer Awards:
- Gord Brown Memorial Award: Darren Gallacher
- Unsung Hero Award: Barb Geggie
The breakfast also marked the announcement of United Way’s $354,459 in funding for 20 local programs in 2025–2026, supporting youth, seniors, families, food security, mental health, and more.
A full list of funded partners and their programs can be found at unitedwayoflg.com.