Local United Way organizations to join forces

The two United Way agencies in Waterloo region are merging into one to form the United Way Waterloo Region Communities.

The merger of the United Way Cambridge and North Dumfries agency and the United Way Kitchener Waterloo and Area agency will become effective as of April 1, 2017.

Frank Voss, board chair with the United Way Cambridge and North Dumfries, says a combined service is essential, because the region is growing and its needs are becoming more complex.

"We expect within the next 15 years we're going to add another 35 per cent to the population," he said, adding that 20 per cent of the community will be over the age of 65.

"We have a lot of immigrants that are coming into our community. Unfortunately the income inequality continues to grow. You know the top 20 per cent continues to gain and the bottom part of the community continues to lose."

Connecting with people

Vosssays both United Way agencieshave contact with many of the same agencies and donors, and by working together they'll be able to increase their presence in the municipalities and townships.

Collectively, the agenciestallied over $7 million in revenueduring 2015-2016 fiscal year.

Frank Voss says moving forward, they want to connect with youth and continue to be relevant.

"How do we try and make the experienceto connect with the United Way that much easier?" Voss asked. "People want to direct their giving, and we want to make sure we're going to respond to that."

The new board will be run by one CEO, two co-Chairs fromeach community when both boards of directors merge in April.