Date
November
28
2007
Members Present
ITEM 1: PRAYER
Assembly Members
Debates of November 28, 2007 (day 4)
Topics
Statements
Member’s Statement On United Way Of Yellowknife
Wendy Bisaro
Frame Lake
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to take this opportunity to highlight a venerable and valuable volunteer organization that’s been with us for a long time. The United Way movement was born out of a community collective philosophy which began in Denver, Colorado, in 1887 and spread to Canada in 1917. The United Way of Yellowknife is still young, established about four years ago, but it’s an active organization. It’s been set up so that contributions can be made to your personal organization of choice and donations made through the United Way of Yellowknife stay in the NWT; 99.25 percent of the funds remain local.
The annual United Way of Yellowknife drive for contributions is currently underway and all NWT residents should assist the organizations in their community by making a contribution to the United Way of Yellowknife. Even though this branch of the United Way has Yellowknife in its name, it is possible to contribute to charitable organizations in NWT communities outside of Yellowknife through the United Way of Yellowknife. Some examples: The Canadian Mental Health Association, Inuvik Branch; Family Support Centre Safe Home Network in Hay River; and Uncle Gabe’s Friendship Centre in Fort Smith.
The Government of the Northwest Territories, the Government of Canada, and other employers offer payroll deduction plans. All you have to do is sign up. They make it really easy to give your money away.
It’s a well-known fact that non-government and charitable organizations are significant contributors to our society, that they provide valuable programs and services in support of NWT residents, that they’re the foundation for much of the health and social services networks in our communities. Your donations are critical to assisting them in their human services work.
Members spoke of the voluntary sector yesterday and its importance. The United Way is a great example of a volunteer organization doing good work.
The Department of Human Resources has kindly forwarded information on the United Way of Yellowknife to everyone in the GNWT through the GNWT Messenger service. I urge all employees and Members to take advantage of the United Way drive and commit to contributing to an organization or charity of your personal choice. I know I will. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause