Eleven companies in the Capital Regional District have raised more than $5 million in support of United Way.
The companies were inducted into the United Way’s Thanks A Million Club at the annual Spirit Awards Monday at the Fairmont Empress.
Companies included Island Health, University of Victoria, Coastal Capital Savings, RBC Royal Bank, the City of Victoria, Camosun College, CIBC, TD Canada Trust, ESIT Advanced Solutions, and Canada Revenue Agency.
The Department of National Defence was also given special honours for raising more than $10 million for the community since 1994.
Dave Wheaton, owner of Wheaton Chevrolet Buick Cadillac GMC, received the chair’s award of distinction, which showcases an individual for their commitment to United Way’s community campaign through the workplace and individual giving.
United Way CEO Patricia Jelinski said there has been a lot of change within the Greater Victoria commuity over the past 80 years, but the generosity of donors has remained constant.
“While many of us have a support system to help overcome life’s challenges — others need a hand up,” she said.
“Thanks for the generosity of our donors — united, we are able to fund a local network of social services for when people need it the most. That’s why United Way was established and why it’s still relevant today.”
In total, the Spirit Awards included 15 award categories, highlighted 58 nominees and 30 finalists for more than 250 workplaces.