Nadine Martin
LIFE REPORTER
PHOTO BY NADINE MARTIN // Shonah Chalmers & her team participate in the Spinathon.
Humber is having its second annual Spinathon tomorrow to help raise money and awareness for the United Way and many of their causes.
“Our annual campaign is an opportunity for people to come together to build a better city,” said Jul Gorman, vice president of United Way Toronto.
“In a year when we know many families are struggling, Humber College has answered our call with a tremendous demonstration of enthusiasm and commitment to our community,” said Gorman.
Gorman said Humber will make a real difference across the city in aiding the support of the United Way’s network of agencies by making sure people are supported when they need it the most.
Paula Gouveia, dean of liberal arts and sciences, said Humber is planning to raise over $7,500 for the Spinathon to help United Way support over 200 of its members.
“Raising funds towards Humber’s United Way campaign won’t be too hard because some people have real aggressive targets,” said Gouveia.
Gouveia said individuals are pledging up to $1,500 which is generating their drive and making them more committed to helping.
Jan Christianson, co-ordinator of the Women Services program, of Community Microskills Development Centre, said they are a non-profit member of the United Way Toronto and derives much of its success from the United Way’s financial support.
“We have a variety of excellent programs such as technology, self employment, and women in trades,” Christianson said.
“We are always looking for women to expand and grow.”
Christianson said their organization helps women move into the labour market in areas where there is high demand.
“One thing I’m most proud of is that there is no tuition cost involved and these women get a solid education base which is all possible with funders like the United Way,” said Christianson.
Christianson said MircoSkills is an organization that is committed to assisting the unemployed, with priority to women, racial minorities, youth and immigrants.
The Spinathon will take place on Nov. 25, 3-7 p.m. at the North campus in A227. The Spinathon will use indoor stationary bikes in the exercise studios, Crystal Pole Langdon, support staff for hospitality recreation tourism said.