GUELPH, ON, Dec. 20, 2011 /CNW/ - The Co-operators today announced that it has raised $773,000 for United Way chapters across Canada, setting a new fundraising record for the group of companies and raising $52,000 more than last year.

Staff-led campaigns, including pledges and special events such as education sessions with United Way-supported organizations, raffles, bake sales and casual days raised more than $426,000. A donation of $50 from The Co-operators Foundation on behalf of each employee was part of this year's corporate contribution of more than $347,000.

"Our staff members are committed to the United Way campaign and work hard every year to come up with fun and creative ways of raising money to support the good work being done by member agencies across the country," said Kathy Bardswick, President and CEO of The Co-operators. "We all come together every year to help the United Way strengthen our communities."

United Way member agencies across Canada work in big cities and small towns to improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action. Support and funding from donors such as The Co-operators allows the United Way member agencies to invest in their communities to create opportunities for people to make a better life for themselves. The United Way is the largest non-government funder of social services and the voluntary sector in Canada. 

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $41 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 ranked #1 among the 50 Best Corporate Citizens in Canada by Corporate Knights, and listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada. As a proud member and supporter of the co-operative sector, The Co-operators is pleased to celebrate 2012: The International Year of Co-operatives. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.