GUELPH, ON, Nov. 24 /CNW/ - The Co-operators today announced that it raised $214,300 for the United Way of Guelph & Wellington this year, bringing its total to more than $1 million over the past five years. Creative fundraising campaigns led by Co-operators staff members yielded $167,700 in personal donations and The Co-operators Foundation provided $50 on behalf of each local employee for a total corporate contribution of $46,600.

Raffles and an ice cream sundaes fundraiser were among the highlights of this year's local United Way campaign at The Co-operators head office. Raffle prizes were donated by businesses in the community while Co-operators member-owners Organic Meadow and Gay Lea donated ice cream and whipped cream for the sundaes fundraiser. Also popular this year was "The Amazing Community Race" - an Amazing Race-style competition geared at educating Co-operators staff about the various community organizations sponsored by the United Way, as well as encouraging employees to participate in additional United Way events.

"Making a considerable contribution in the communities where we live and work is at the core of who we are as an organization," said Kathy Bardswick, President and CEO of The Co-operators.  "Our commitment to supporting the United Way shines through with every creative staff-led campaign and volunteer effort we engage in."

Thanks to funding from local donors such as The Co-operators, member agencies of the United Way of Guelph & Wellington are able to provide health and social services support to people throughout Guelph and Wellington County. Decisions on the distribution of United Way funds are based on extensive research into community needs. 

"I cannot thank The Co-operators and its staff enough for their ongoing and generous support of the United Way's annual fundraising campaign," said Ken Dardano, Executive Director of the United Way of Guelph & Wellington. "Over the past five years, The Co-operators has contributed over $1 million to the United Way. Their support has quite literally improved the lives of thousands of people in our community." 

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a 100 per cent Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $42 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 owned by 47 Canadian co-operatives, credit union centrals and like-minded organizations. It is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to creating a more sustainable tomorrow. In 2010, The Co-operators was ranked #2 among the 50 Best Corporate Citizens in Canada and listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.