Warden’s Gala Dinner Raises $85,000 for United Way

Funds will support individuals and families across Simcoe County

Midhurst/ October 26, 2009 – The third annual Simcoe County Warden’s Gala Dinner was held at the Nottawasaga Inn in Alliston on October 22 and was a major success this year raising $85,000 for the United Way of Greater Simcoe County.

“This was a truly successful event we hosted this year and our gratitude goes out to all those generous donors who came out to support this cause,” stated Warden Tony Guergis. “This year, the United Way of Greater Simcoe County celebrates it 50th year of service to our communities and residents.

“Over 150,000 people in Simcoe County alone access the vital services that the United Way supports. We greatly appreciate the many sponsors that recognize the tremendous value of the United Way and its work in our communities.”

Highlights of the evening included the auction of a 2010 Honda Civic DX-G as well as the evening’s entertainment, Derek Edwards, an award winning comedian who frequents the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival. The evening was emceed by A Channel’s Lance Chilton.

The Gala brought together elected officials of Simcoe County, community leaders and key members of Ontario’s building and land development communities.

“We are so grateful to Warden Tony Guergis and County of Simcoe staff for organizing this event on behalf of United Way of Greater Simcoe County for the third year in a row,” said Seija Suutari, Chief Executive Officer for United Way. “The proceeds from this class act event will go a long way in supporting our community fund and will be directly invested in Simcoe County. “

The County of Simcoe manages social services programs for residents throughout the region including the cities of Barrie and Orillia. Programs for youth, seniors, families, people with special needs and the homeless are currently operating at capacity level and with extensive wait lists.

United Way of Greater Simcoe County, a volunteer-based organization, distributes funds to support 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 strengthen families.

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.