News
Ken Howland to Chair National 211 Steering Committee
211 development has enjoyed considerable momentum across the country, due in large part to the extraordinary efforts of United Ways – Centraides, the information and referral sector, and other community partners. There are currently eleven service delivery centres now in place in Canada, with 8 in Ontario, 2 in Alberta, plus Quebec City. Now more than 9 million Canadians have access to 211 services, with expansion and development activities occurring across the country. With this growth comes the need to develop an enhanced governance capacity which will ensure the integrity of the national system, the application of pan-Canadian standards and compatibility measures, provide strategic oversight of development and partnership building, as well as make the best use of limited resources. Based on a governance model approved by both the Boards of United Way of Canada – Centraide Canada and InformCanada Federation, measures have been taken to renew the 211 Canada Steering Committee.
Historically, 211 governance has benefited from the immense contribution of a small group of devoted volunteer Committee members. Recently, recruitment has been undertaken which will increase the size and capacity of this Committee. New Committee members, representing United Ways – Centraides, information and referral organizations, business, emergency preparedness, the not-for-profit sector and other “N-11’s”, have skills and experience which are linked to the long-term vision for the development of an independent 211 national organization.
Congratulations and Thank You to Ken for taking on this position!!
United Way Invests In the Future of Saskatoon's Children
For the second year, the United Way of Saskatoon & Area will be partnering with the Saskatoon Health Region to provide funding for in school programming in 10 community schools in Saskatoon's six poorest neighbourhoods.
Health disparity data published by the SHR shows that children living in Saskatoon's six poorest neighbourhoods have much poorer health status than children living anywhere else in Saskatoon.
In 2007, the United Way Board of Directors approved $50,000 for this initiative. The SHR contributed $30,000 so there was a total of $80,000 to disburse to the ten schools. This year, in 2008/2009, the United Way will contribute $30,000 to match the SHR's contribution of an addtional $30,000. We will also be looking for other funders interested in supporting this iniative.
In 2008/2009, we have agreed that the programs funded will focus on improving the mental health of elementary school students and increasing their physical activity. SHR staff will be working with each school to develop programs best suited to their school.
Click here to see our After School Brochure.
