Warden's Gala raises $45,000

The first annual Warden's Gala Dinner to benefit Simcoe County communities through the United Way of Greater Simcoe County raised over $45,000 and exceeded first year expectations.

The gala, held at the Nottawasaga Inn Resort in Alliston, brought together elected officials from the county, community leaders and key members of Ontario's building and land development communities. Lance Chilton of A-Channel acted as master of ceremonies for the evening, with playwright and author Dan Needles providing the keynote address.

"(The) county knows that the good works the United Way provides to many residents is invaluable and with increased growth in our county there are even greater responsibilities with an increasing demand for services," said warden Tony Guergis. "The county is moving forward with planning for our future through the development of an area wide growth plan and our community partners like the United Way fulfill a critical need in our growing communities.

The county administers significant funding in the area of social services throughout our region. Currently, programs for youth, seniors, families, people with special needs and the homeless are operating at capacity level and with extensive waitlists. The United Way, a volunteer-based organization, helps through support to local non-profit agencies. The services these agencies provide build a brighter future for children, enrich the lives of the elderly, give hope to those in need and strengthens families.

"We are extremely pleased with the support this event received from the area's corporate community and I want to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt thank you to these dedicated community leaders," said Guergis. "They truly answered our challenge to give back to those in need in our communities. In particular, I wish to thank the Nottawasaga Inn Resort for their generous support for this event."

The United Way branch has been making a difference in the community for over 47 years by assessing local needs and distributing resources to help those most in need. Every dollar raised by United Way branch stays in the county, helping those most in need.

"We are so grateful to the county and all the event sponsors for (starting) this event and supporting the local community through United Way. These funds will be invested locally and will assist those in our community that need our collective support and assistance," said Seija Suutari, the branch's executive director.