1998 Government Metro United Way Campaign Wraps Up

Government employees received a well-earned pat on the back today for their commitment to helping others through the 1998 Metro United Way campaign. The provincial government's campaign was an outstanding success, raising more than $266,000 -- 25 per cent above the goal it had set.

"This is tremendous," said Environment Minister Michel Samson. "We have a history in this province of reaching out to help one another. This year's campaign success is a perfect example of how people so willingly come together to help their neighbours in need."

The Environment Department chaired this year's government campaign, which involved more than 150 volunteers working as account executives and employee campaign co-ordinators in all departments. Many other volunteers gave time for numerous special events and department activities resulting in an increase in the average donation -- to $142 per person, up from $129 in 1997.

"The willingness of employees to volunteer was overwhelming," said Shirley Nicholson, executive chair of the provincial government campaign. "One of the greatest assets of this group, and a key factor in the campaign's success, was the volunteers' ability to work as a team."

The responsibility of co-ordinating the yearly campaign rotates among government departments. During a recent appreciation event for volunteers, the torch was passed to the Department of Health to organize this year's campaign.

"On behalf of the Government of Nova Scotia, I want to congratulate staff in all departments for making this significant contribution to the Metro United Way," said Mr. Samson. "The hard work and commitment of everybody involved translated into a campaign we are all proud of."