GUELPH, ON, Jan. 23, 2015 /CNW/ - A total of $195,165 was raised by The Co-operators and its employees in Guelph during the 2014 United Way campaign to support the vital programs and services provided by United Way member agencies in our community. The organization and its Guelph-based employees won a Spirit Award in the Business & Finance Division from Guelph Wellington Dufferin United Way for this year's campaign

During the staff-led campaign, employees made donations at fundraising events such as casual days, silent auctions and raffles, bake sales, a pumpkin carving contest and United Way education sessions, raising $148,565. In addition, The Co-operators made a corporate contribution of $46,600.

Nationally, The Co-operators group of companies raised $613,034 for the United Way. A series of local staff-led campaigns were conducted in offices throughout the country, with both individual donations and corporate contributions directed to local United Way chapters. 

"The United Way campaign connects our staff members across the country with the shared goal of making a difference in the lives of so many in their local communities. Knowing that the funds support vital services inspires creative staff-led campaigns and volunteer efforts," said Kathy Bardswick, president and CEO of The Co-operators. "Concern for community is a co-operative principle we take to heart, and the results of this campaign are a testament to our employees' generosity."

The United Way is the largest non-government funder of social services and the voluntary sector in Canada. Monitoring and meeting the existing and emerging local needs and challenges, the United Way provides vital funding to its member agencies, helping to improve Canadians' quality of life. With funding from local donors like The Co-operators, United Way chapters are able to improve lives and build caring communities by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action.

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $37 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada by Aon Hewitt; Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada; and the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada by Sustainalytics and Maclean's magazine. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.

SOURCE The Co-operators