2019

Report to the Community

Message from our Board President and Executive Director

Thank you!

2019 was a year filled with exciting opportunities as we deepened our commitment to improving lives through measurable community change.

We formed new partnerships, engaged front-line partners and began community conversations – small kitchen table type conversations with people who live in our community. Our conversations, rooted in aspirations, were held in places that are comfortable, familiar, and where people are already gathered. We talked about their ideal community, the issues they see, and their ideas for solutions.

As we continue these conversations, United Way will strategically solicit, manage, and invest funds in programs and services that are addressing #UNIGNORABLE issues including poverty, homelessness, mental illness, and social isolation. This incredibly important work is happening only because of you!

We are inspired by the many stories of lives changed as a result of your generous gifts and on-the-ground volunteer efforts. Along with our funded front-line agencies and partners, labour, and communities throughout the District, we will continue to tackle some of the most daunting social problems facing vulnerable individuals, families, and neighbourhoods throughout our community.

Through this report, we are pleased to show you some of the ways that you have made a difference in 2019. Proof that, when it comes to a stronger and more vibrant community, we are most powerful working together.

Sincerely,

Patrick Brouzes Mary Lou Hussak Board President Executive Director

We love where we live. Our community is vibrant. While there is much to celebrate, we know there are issues. In our busy lives, sometimes these issues can go unnoticed. Poverty. Social Isolation. Hunger. Domestic Violence. These are local issues that are impacting thousands of lives in our community. But, together, with the help of our donors, we’re working to make these local issues #UNIGNORABLE.

Timmins

SudburyNorth

Bay

Patrick Brouzes

Mary Lou Hussak

MissionTo improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action.

Report to the Community 2019

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PovertyPoverty is complex. It knows no boundaries. Sometimes it’s easy to see. Sometimes it’s not. People of all ages struggle with basic necessities like food and shelter, right here in our community.

Our ResponseTo help ensure that local programs and supports that reduce the impact of poverty are available when people need them most.

The Issues

59,610 nutritious meals and food boxes were provided improving access

to healthy food

3,420people accessed essential

supports to help meet basic needs including shelter and

clothing

2,127individuals participated in

programs & workshops to help them build resiliency, confidence

and learn life skills

17,829 crisis interventions were provided through street

outreach

Nearly

21,000 people in the City of

Greater Sudbury live in poverty

1 in 7 households in the

Nipissing and Parry Sound District

are food insecure

1,782people are homeless

in the Cochrane District

Our Impact

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Spotlight:Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVIT)Since 1997, UWCNEO has been involved in the CVIT Program. Offered annually through March and April, dedicated volunteers prepare and file thousands of income tax returns for low-income individuals and families at zero-cost, with an estimated savings of $339,675 in filing costs and millions of dollars in accessed benefits.

The program – a partnership between UWCNEO, Canada Revenue Agency, Greater Sudbury Public Libraries, French River Public Libraries, and the Sudbury Community Service Centre – is essential and helps to ensure that low-income earners who file their taxes receive all available government income programs and benefits.

2019 Breakdown60 Volunteers55 Clinics4,529 Filed Tax Returns

We want to thank our dedicated volunteers for making this program possible.

Overcoming Homelessness to Help Others“Becoming homeless was really stressful. It started when I was 15 – I was removed from my family home by the police when things got really bad one day. I ended up doing a lot of couch surfing, but thankfully, I only spent a few nights outside.

Things didn’t get better when I graduated from high school; they got worse. I was still angry and hurt. I ended up hitchhiking across the country, getting into drugs and living on the streets.

But in 2015, I was offered the chance to go home and get clean. A few months later, I was accepted into a United Way-supported program. There were a lot of very strict rules, but I was being held accountable – maybe for the first time ever. I started doing everything I could do to avoid falling back into old habits. Now, I’m studying computer science and working part-time at a shelter.

When I was at my worst, I would walk down the street, and people would pretend I wasn’t there. Now, people cross the street to say ‘Hi’ to me. I plan to finish my degree, and I’m thinking about doing a Master’s. I’d also like to get more involved with the shelter system in my community.

I want people like me to know it can get better. There are always going to be people there for you – you just have to open up and allow them in.”

– Travis

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Many people find difficulty in connecting with essential community services. They don’t know where to turn, or that help is even available. Barriers are often amplified for seniors, people living with disabilities, newcomers, and people with mental illness.

Our ResponseTo help ensure that local programs and initiatives that foster community connections, provide support, and increase a sense of belonging are available to improve wellbeing.

Community

The Issues

1,276people accessed counselling

services to improve their sense of security and wellness

404survivors of violence and trauma

received safety and recovery treatment to rebuild their lives

12,303referrals made to clients

regarding community supports

262individuals with disabilities accessed assistive devices, educational supports, and

recreational activities to reduce barriers

1 in 5people will

experience a mental health problem or

illness

1 in 3 Canadians have

reported they do not have a strong sense of belonging to their

community

1 in 3 women are affected by sexual violence

Our Impact

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Community ConnectionsFrom the very beginning, Lori has been a part of PADDLE. As one of the co-founding families, Lori and her son Shawn have personally experienced the value of having this program in their community.

PADDLE is a parent-driven initiative that provides a unique and holistic learning environment for adults with developmental disabilities. PADDLE offers opportunities and choices in learning experiences and community involvement. Their structured, meaningful, inclusive community-based environment ensures that adults with developmental disabilities can continue to thrive.

“In 2007, there were four families that lobbied to have this program in our community. My son was isolated. When PADDLE opened its doors, his life changed. He had a place to go. This program created a sense of connection and belonging, helping him to socialize and meet friends. He was part of a community.

As a parent, it felt so good to see my son thriving again. To see him happy. He was excited in the mornings and couldn’t wait to get going. We saw changes in Shawn and the other individuals utilizing the program; we saw changes in their families.

Before PADDLE, there was nothing like this in our community. It has grown from nine students to 33; lives that are forever changed.

This program has created awareness and helped people understand that individuals who have special needs also have special gifts that can make our community better!”

– Lori

Spotlight:2-1-12-1-1 is an information referral helpline available by phone, text, chat or online search that helps connect people to community-based social service supports. Whether it’s finding assistance with basic needs such as food, shelter or employment, looking for services for an aging parent, or finding childcare, 2-1-1 is there to help.This service, proudly supported by UWCNEO is free, confidential, and available 24/7/365 in over 150 languages.

2019 BreakdownNumber of calls: 4,103Needs Identified: 4,140Number of web sessions: 3,222Top three reasons people reached out to 2-1-1: Health Housing Mental Health & Addictions

Sally, a grandmother on a fixed income, called 2-1-1 on behalf of her daughter, who works full-time at a minimum wage job. Her daughter has two children and is struggling to make ends meet. At the end of each month, she uses the food bank to try to stretch every dollar. Sally’s grandchildren want to participate in recreational activities, which causes added stress because money is tight.

When Sally called 2-1-1, the information referral specialist provided her with information about a community-based program that helps low-income families with recreation expenses. She also found out about other programs that help to reduce utility bills for low-income families.

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KidsFor some children, growing up isn’t easy. Depending on where they live or their family situation, children and youth can’t access the vital services and supports they need to develop their skills, abilities, and interests.

Our ResponseTo help ensure that children and youth, no matter where they live or what their circumstances are, have opportunities to reach their potential now, and as they transition through childhood to young adulthood.

Less than

1 in 4Canadian children and youth in need of mental health support actually

receive it

1 in 5children in the City of Greater Sudbury live

in poverty

1 in 4Canadian children are vulnerable in

one or more areas of development—such as communication

skills, social competency

and language development— prior to entering Grade 1

The Issues

477caregivers participated in

programs that enhanced their capacity to support their children’s development

313children and youth were

encouraged, empowered, and supported by a caring mentor

2,601youth accessed free or

subsidized social, physical, and recreational programs to build

resiliency and improve their physical and mental wellbeing

184at-risk youth accessed places

and spaces that provided safety, security, and acceptance

Our Impact

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Spotlight:Wolves United – United Five (WUUF): A partnership helping youth succeedSince its inception, WUUF has been positively impacting youth by helping to ensure that a variety of mental health activities, sport, recreation, educational and other development opportunities are available for vulnerable children and youth. Many young people in our community are struggling with #UNIGNORABLE issues that can have life-long effects. Issues including, poverty, childhood hunger, and mental illness. Depending on where they live or their family situation, many do not have access to the services and supports they need to thrive. Initiatives funded through this program help to build resiliency, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging.

2018-19 Breakdown$115,789 invested34 initiativesOver 2500 youth supportedFrom poverty to politics

“Growing up was tough – I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety as a kid. By the time I was a teenager, most days, I just wanted to sleep all day, rather than face the world. I couldn’t eat, shower or even brush my teeth.

In grade nine, I started attending a United Way-funded tutoring and mentoring program after school, and the support I had there made such a big difference. During high school, my family struggled with poverty, which made life very hard. After we paid for rent or other necessities, sometimes we couldn’t afford to pay our heating bill or had no money left over for food.

Eventually, we became homeless, and we had to split up because we couldn’t find a place to accommodate all of us. I felt so much stress and anxiety, my hair began to fall out. The tutoring program helped me get through it all

by supporting me – no matter what. The staff made sure that we were okay every night and had food to eat. They also advocated for us and helped us look for housing. I think a big part of this program is that it made people feel welcome. Just knowing that there was support was huge for me. Even after high school, I could go there and talk to the staff about university, and they’d help me.

One day, I want to be the first Indigenous female prime minister of Canada. But for now, I’m going to school and working full-time as a student-parent support worker at the same program that helped me. It feels amazing that I could take my own story and inspire other students to keep going, and to be the best that they can be.” – Rose

Alicia says that Lake Joe was the first accessible environment she had ever experienced, and the first place she felt safe to be independent. She was able to unplug and get away from the ‘real world’ and not think about her troubles. Alicia took part in the Youth Leadership Program (CLDP), a new initiative designed to help young people develop skills in public speaking, advocacy, mental health and networking. She joined youth from across Canada as they worked together under the

guidance of experienced staff. Alicia is looking forward to using her new leadership skills to advocate for others who are blind and partially sighted through the CNIB Advocacy Program. She wants to help others because she knows what it’s like to struggle.

“I’ve gained a new found independence. Since I arrived home I’ve been going out more on my own. Before, I always had someone go with me wherever I went out because I was anxious.” – Alicia

Independence and Opportunity

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United Way’s across the country have a long and proud history of working with Labour. Historically, Sudbury has been a labour stronghold making our community a healthier, more vibrant and robust place for everyone to call home.

Nationally, United Way and the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) have been partners since 1988, working collectively to strengthen communities across Canada. Locally, we work with the North Bay District Labour Council (NBDLC), Timmins & District Labour (TDLC), the Sudbury and District Labour (SDLC) and all surrounding councils.

This long-standing partnership is rooted much deeper than just financial support. Labour representatives advocate for those in need in our communities. They serve on boards, cabinets, and various committees supporting efforts in workplaces through volunteerism, advocacy, and donations.

Labour Partnership

Each year UWNCEO and Labour work collectively to organize events and initiatives that bring our community together.

During International Women’s Week, the CLC, local labour council’s and UWCNEO organized Tampon Tuesday events to bring attention to period poverty. Our focus is on education, awareness, and action through the collection of menstrual products to help our communities’ most vulnerable citizens.

April 28th was International Day of Mourning for workers who were killed or injured in their workplace or while performing their jobs. United Way coordinated with the SDLC to host an event to honour those we have lost. The focus is on Health & Safety to prevent workplace injuries as we mourn for the dead and fight for the living. (top photo at right)

On Labour Day, affiliates, Labour Councils, UWCNEO, and community members gather together to celebrate workers. (second photo at right)

In November, the Sudbury community gathers for an annual labour breakfast that reaffirms and establishes new ties within labour and community. This past November marked Sudbury’s 20th anniversary. We thank everyone who attended for making this a spectacular event! (photo opposite page and third photo at right)

This year, Eddie Ste. Marie, Canadian Labour Congress Northern Regional Representative, retired after 24 years of service! We thank Eddie for his guidance, leadership, and commitment, and wish him a relaxing retirement.(bottom photo at right)

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Youth Challenge – TimminsThe Youth Challenge in Timmins was filled with energy and spirit. As each team preformed an original routine competing for the coveted Youth Challenge trophy, they learned about the impact of United Way in their community.(photo at right)

Tampon Tuesday Periods are a fact of life, and although menstrual hygiene products are a necessity, many people in our community struggle to purchase them. A big thank you to our labour partners and all of the generous workplaces and employees for contributing to our product drive. Because of you, 3,959 lives were impacted. (photo at right)

Local Love in ActionThis past year, United Way supporters showed their local love in so many ways! We are grateful for their efforts and support. Here are a few memorable moments from 2019.

Pull for United Way – North BayWith energy and enthusiasm, 17 teams gave it their all to pull a Canadore Challenger 100 feet in record time. Congratulations to Whiskey Tango Foxtrot who clocked the fastest time of 19.44 seconds. (photo above)

OPP Charity Match – NipissingOPP detachments across the region had fun this year with some fantastic events including charity hockey matches! Supported by the community, these games brought non-stop action and fun with sirens, cheers, and sold-out arenas.

In the CommunitySeeing Is Believing Tours Participants learn about #UNIGNORABLE issues while visiting funded community programs to see the impact of their donations.

8 ‘Seeing is Believing’ Tours 100+ Participants

Brain Architecture GameIn this team-building activity, participants learn about the powerful role relationships and social service supports have on early brain development and the life-long impact of childhood experiences.

250+ Participants7 Workplaces

Impact PresentationsAudiences hear first-hand about the impact their support is having in our community while speakers share compelling stories of hope and inspiration.

56 Workplace Presentations

Learning and Engagement

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In Good Company To our corporate, government, labour and community partner organizations who share our belief in a stronger, more inclusive community, we cannot thank you enough. Your donations, in-kind services, leadership and acts of local love are greatly appreciated.

Vale/USW 6500/2020Glencore - Sudbury INO & Kidd Operations:

UNIFOR Mine Mill 598/USW 2020Government of Canada Workplace

Charitable Campaign (GCWCC) LCBO: OPSEU Ontario Public Service Dans la function

publique de l’ontario: OPSEU NewmontCity of Greater Sudbury Ville du Grand

Sudbury: CUPE 4705RBC Enbridge Gas: USW 2020Laurentian University Université

Laurentienne: LUFA/LUSA/USW/CUPE/CAW

TD Canada TrustBMO Bank of Montreal Costco Intact-Brokerlink Scotiabank CIBC Cambrian Ford Enterprise Public Health Sudbury and Districts: FESSO/

AEFO/CUPE Desjardins Caisse Populaire IG Wealth Management

Ontario Northland Railway: Unifor Local 103Fondation Familles Lauzon Greater Sudbury Utilities: CUPE 4705Toromont Great West Life United Way Centraide North East Ontario /

Nord-est de l’Ontario Collège Boréal: OPSEUKlohn Crippen Berger Robert Campeau Family Foundation BBA Tsys Managed Services Bell Canada Reliance Home Comfort: USW 2020 Carriere Industrial Farm Business ConsultantsRogersSudbury Catholic School Board: OECTAMetroCarrefour FrancophoneConroy Trebb Scott & Hurtubise LLPFairstone Financial Doyle Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram City of TimminsKunierczyk Realty Group The Co-operators Sunlife Insurance AECOM

Hydro One Crosstown Chevrolet Buick Cadillac GMC Laurentian Chrysler Mid North Mitsubishi New Sudbury Volkswagen Limited Palladino Honda Sudbury Hyundai Kia Sudbury Motors Rivard Engineering Chisholm Optometry KPMG Monarch Recovery Services Cambrian College: OPSEU PCL Construction Canada Post: CUPW Health Sciences North: ONA/CUPE/OPSEUFreelandt Caldwell Reilly Sienna Senior Living CN CP Rail March of DimesCity of Lakes Family Health Team Sudbury Credit Union Reliable Maintenance Overhead Door Company Pinchin A2S Association SRWC Chartered Professional Accountants Demore Drywall SNC Lavalin Autumnwood Talossteel Castec Anmar Voyageur Aviation Chenier Motors Cochrane Timiskaming Resource Centre District School Board Ontario North EastSandro Steel Lougheed’s Limited

Access Better Living Conseil scolaire public du Grand Nord:

FESSO/AEFO/CUPE Northern Youth Services Jim’s Automotive Service RV Anderson The Mehta Family Fund Gateway Casinos John R Hamalainen Engineering RG Sutton Rock Solid Computer ServicesBlack Rock North MediaNorthern LifeSudbury.comPG AdvertisingDefence Construction CanadaKuppajoSWEAC - Sudbury Workers Education and

Advocacy CentreOver the Atlantic

LabourUSW 6500SEIUNorth Bay Labour Council CUPE District Council PSAC Timmins Labour CouncilCUPE Carpenters District Council of Ontario CUPE 1182, 2599, 4705SOAR OPSEU 681CUPW USW 2020Sudbury District Labour CouncilOSSTF ETFO UTE

1918Photo: Corporal Robert Ouellette, 22 Wing Imagery Technician

Report to the Community 2019

Volunteers Thank you to our generous and committed volunteers who serve the community through contributions of time and leadership. The work we do in our community is made better because of your contributions and we simply couldn’t do what we do without you.

BOARD OF DIRECTORSExecutive Committee Patrick Brouzes, President Tina Vincent-Gagnon, Vice President Deb St. Germain, Vice President Labour Daryl Heinsohn, Treasurer (resigned September 2019) Lisa Scott, Treasurer Paul Gomirato, Past President

Directors Réjean Amyotte Gary Aubut Valerie Barbe Doug Conroy Amanda Dyer Dr. Paula F. Gouveia Marisa Jarus Dr. Rayudu Koka Nastassia McNair Barb Nott Sebastian Shushan Wayde Smith Chris Vuorensyrja

CAMPAIGN CABINETCampaign Chair: Mike Penwarden – TD Bank

Mike Ladyk – 3rd Line StudioScott McCulloch – Cambrian FordJessica Zubal – Rogers Digital MediaTerri Rinta – United Steelworkers Local 2020Jay Baxter-Derro – Black Rock North MediaSheena Alexander – MLA Law: Moutsatsos Laakso Alexander LLPNorm Legault – Legault ElectricSam Guillemette – IG WealthCraig Gifford – Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry

Your generosity powers United Way’s work in the community. It allows us to tackle persistent, #UNIGNORABLE issues that are preventing far too many individuals and families from getting ahead.

By showing your local love, you’re helping to create a brighter future.

Thank You!

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Photo: Matt Durnan

Sudbury Office957 Cambrian Heights Dr., Unit 201Sudbury, ON P3C 5S5Phone: 705.560.3330Fax: 705.560.3337

Timmins Office27 Cedar St. N Timmins, ON P4N 6H8Phone: 705.531.7233 ext. 305

www.uwcneo.com

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