Spirited thanks to DND
Shelley Lipke, Staff writer
Photo by Shelley Lipke, Lookout
When United Way campaign chair Michael McEvoy announced the grand total achieved through fundraising this year was $6.7 million, surpassing the goal of $6.35 million, the crowd at the Empress Hotel ballroom went wild, jumping to their feet and applauding to show their excitement for the success.
But the recognition didn't end there. The Jan. 27 event, hosted by the Empress Hotel, also included handing out 2009 Greater Victoria United Way Spirit Awards for excellence in fundraising and outstanding leadership.
The Half Million Dollar Spirit Award went to the Department of National Defence and was accepted on behalf of the entire CFB Esquimalt community by Base Commander and campaign chair Capt(N) Marcel Halle, and campaign co-ordinator Vikki Ilkka.
Through personal pledges or participation in special events, over $640,000 was raised by the DND community; and retired defence team members contributed more than $60,000, allowing CFB Esquimalt to surpass its fundraising goal of $700,000.
"As your campaign chair, I extend a big thanks to each and every one of you who got involved and participated in this year's event; it was a fantastic campaign with an outstanding result," said Capt(N) Halle about the DND community's involvement in the successful campaign.
He said despite the downturn in the economy and a reduction in personnel numbers, he was extremely proud of the entire Formation for their caring generosity and hard work, and wants all of CFB Esquimalt to take pride and share in this Spirit Award.
"My aim for this year's campaign was twofold," said Capt(N) Halle. "It was to raise awareness within CFB Esquimalt regarding the tremendous need in the community by those less fortunate, and to ensure that everyone within the Formation had an opportunity to participate. This year's outcome demonstrates once again the generosity and community spirit of Esquimalt's Defence Team. The good that will result from our Government of Canada Charitable Workplace Campaign originates from all those who took part and who share meriting this recognition."
During the presentations Dan Deringer, Fleet Maintenance Facility (FMF) Cape Breton campaign co-ordinator, was called up and recognized for 15 years of outstanding service to this campaign and presented a signed Chris Szarka Saskatchewan Rough Rider jersey. He was moved and spoke about his dedication and thoughts towards the campaign, telling the crowd he wanted to continue with the cabinet and other duties to support United Way after his retirement from FMF this May.
Four other Spirit Awards went to DND recipients including:
Quantum Leap Spirit Award (50-150 employees)
POESB Auxiliary Fleet - recognizes the employees of an organization that has an exceptional increase in dollars raised.
Employee Campaign Chair of the Year (50-150 employees - new 2009)
Dave Jones POESB Auxiliary Fleet - recognizes the employee chair/representative for a unit that achieved significant results
Leadership Campaign Spirit Award (under 75 employees)
CFFSE Combat Systems Engineering Division (PO2 Funston) - recognizes an employees for their significant involvement and results in the Leadership Giving Program
Canvasser of the Year (new 2009)
Colleen Ryan FMF Shop 154
