GUELPH, ON, Jan. 23, 2015 /CNW/ - The vital health and social services provided by United Way agencies across Canada received a boost of $613,034 from The Co-operators and its employees during the 2014 United Way campaign.

Employees across Canada made donations through local staff-led campaigns from silent auctions, raffles and bake sales to casual days, fun contests and payroll deductions, raising $359,009. A corporate contribution of $254,025 was also made by The Co-operators to support the United Way and its goal of creating opportunities for a better life for Canadians.

"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