In times of economic uncertainty, when challenges seem insurmountable, the strength of a community is measured by how we come together. This belief was on full display at this year’s 7th Annual United Way Waterloo Region Communities (WRC) Spirit Awards, where we honored the businesses, nonprofits, individuals, and unions who are shaping a better future for Waterloo Region.
The Spirit Awards are not just about recognition; they are a powerful reminder that change happens when we act together. At United Way, we see firsthand the impact of rising costs, food insecurity, and housing instability on families, children, and vulnerable residents. The nominees and award recipients represent some of the best of Waterloo Region – people and organizations who step up to ensure no one has to navigate hardship alone.
This year’s Community Impact Award was presented to YWCA Cambridge, a funded partner whose leadership and dedication continue to drive meaningful change for women and girls. A highlight this year has been the opening of the first women’s shelter in Cambridge.
We also celebrated Volunteer of the Year Award winners Tonya Taylor (BMO), Rebecca Tascona (BMO), Laura Galbraith (Vidyard), and Robert Connell (KPMG), who founded United Way Corporate Trivia – an event which, over three years, has raised nearly $75,000.
The Spirit of Community Award was presented to Waterloo Regional Police Services, recognizing their outstanding community engagement and support through their workplace campaign, which launched a Hall-o-Way fun run this year in addition to numerous other engaging and meaningful events during their United Way campaign.
Recognizing the power of workplace giving, BMO received the Outstanding Workplace Campaign Award (Large Business) for their dedication to philanthropy and incredible participation. GrandBridge Energy was awarded the Outstanding Workplace Campaign Award (Small-Mid Size Business) for their commitment to employee engagement and generosity.
Finally, the Ken Seiling Community Leaders Award, this year, was presented to Rita Westbrook, honoring her lifelong dedication to building a stronger, more connected Waterloo Region. Rita is a dedicated community leader whose extensive contributions span law enforcement, healthcare governance, and philanthropy, including key roles with local hospitals, the Waterloo Wellington LHIN, Rotary, and the United Way.
Waterloo Region is a place of innovation and opportunity, but true prosperity is about more than just economic success; it is about lifting each other up. A small gift from many people can fill the cracks in our social system, making this the best place to live for everyone.
The Spirit Awards are a moment to celebrate, but the work doesn’t stop there. We must continue showing up for one another, investing in solutions, and proving that when we unite, we don’t just change lives, we transform communities.
United Way is proud to be part of a global movement through United Way Worldwide, working collaboratively across borders to protect the most vulnerable. We do this by building bridges of peace, not partisanship, while upholding the values of human rights, dignity, and inclusion. For all who are worried or burdened, we continue to show up with a calm voice and steady hand.