BC FORUM News Standing up for people in our communities BC FORUM teams up with United Way to help people throughout B.C. November 21, 2012 - BC FORUM is urging members to support the United Way to help create a better future for children, seniors and families in their communities. There are more than 100 United Ways across Canada – including 13 in B.C. – each raising funds locally to support the community. The Canadian Labour Congress and the United Way work together at both the national and local levels to address people’s needs. Unions are key supporters of the annual United Way campaign, encouraging members to volunteer and give. Union members contribute more than half of the total funds raised nationally, and up to 80 percent of donations in some communities. This year, the United Way is focused on three key issues – breaking the cycle of poverty, preventing bullying, and preventing social isolation of seniors. The campaign notes B.C.’s high rate of child poverty, the life-long impact of bullying, and the effect of isolation, neglect, abuse and poor physical health on seniors. “We all play a role in improving the lives of those who are vulnerable in our community. The more solidarity we share with the community in tackling these issues, the stronger we are as a movement,” says Irene Lanzinger, secretary-treasurer of the B.C. Federation of Labour. Please contact the United Way in your region for information on the wide range of programs and services, and how you can help. United Way in British Columbia: Castlegar District, 250.365.7331 Central and Northern Vancouver Island, 250.729.7400 Central & South Okanagan/Similkameen, 250.860.2356 Cowichan, 250.748.1312 Cranbrook & Kimberley, 250.426.8833 Fraser Valley, 604.852.1234 Greater Victoria, 250.385.6708 Lower Mainland, 604.294.8929 Northern British Columbia, 250.561.1040 North Okanagan, Columbia, Shuswap, 250.549.1346 Powell River and District, 604.485.2132 Thompson, Nicola, Cariboo, 250.372.9933 Trail and District, 250.364.0999 | 
