MEDIA RELEASE
Former Chief of Police to Lead 2019 United Way Campaign
Jeff DeRuyter announced as United Way Campaign Chair
Guelph, Ontario, April 8, 2019. Former Chief of the Guelph Police Service, Jeff DeRuyter, has accepted the role of the 2019 United Way Campaign Chair, and will lead a group of dedicated community leaders in the fall to raise millions of dollars to support local social services in our community.
“After serving with the Guelph Police Service for the last 35 years, I planned to continue to be involved in our community in retirement, but was unsure what the next chapter would be”, said Jeff DeRuyter. “When I was approached to take on the role of Cabinet Chair, I reflected on the agencies and programs which the local United Way supports. I have had the privilege of working with so many of these great organizations and have seen firsthand how United Way funding truly makes a difference in our community. Taking on this role seemed like the right fit and I’m truly looking forward to the work ahead.”
The 2019 Campaign Cabinet includes more than a dozen community leaders from all industry sectors, including manufacturing, business and finance, education and the public sector. These volunteers provide leadership to the overall campaign, assisting with direction and community engagement.
“We are thrilled to have Jeff at the helm this year,” said Ken Dardano, executive director of United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin. “His proven passion for our community and his collaborative leadership approach will have a positive impact on the Campaign. Jeff’s knowledge of our funded agencies and the issues our community faces will be a tremendous asset, and we look forward to learning from him as well.”
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin currently funds a network of 73 local programs at 51 different organizations in Guelph and Wellington and Dufferin counties. Programs support many complex issues, including poverty, mental health, children, seniors and literacy. The campaign runs until the end of December. Donations are accepted at workplaces across Guelph and Wellington and Dufferin counties, and through the United Way office (519-821-0571 or www.unitedwayguelph.com).
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For more information:
Ken Dardano, Executive Director
United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin
519-831-3093 (cell) ken@unitedwayguelph.com