United Way of Southeastern Alberta is shifting to a more digital approach. Oleschwander/Dreamstime.com

By Jesse Gill

IN THE COMMUNITY

United Way of Southeastern Alberta shifts to digital fundraising approach

Nov 7, 2024 | 5:21 PM

The United Way of Southeastern Alberta, an organization that has helped provide support to people and organizations in Medicine Hat for over 60 years, is shifting to a digital fundraising approach.

Gone are the days of the big visual fundraising thermometer set up at the local mall.

Executive director Missy Fandrick said they will still use traditional phone calls and mail-outs to those who have regularly contributed through that method, but have shifted to more digital promotion.

“Who would have thought 10 years ago you could actually make a donation to your local United Way by e-transfer, or Canada Helps, or through your workplace,” Fandrick said.

IN THE COMMUNITY

United Way of Southeastern Alberta shifts to digital fundraising approach

5h ago

In the community

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed sees influx of hand-made knitted goods ahead of winter

5h ago

WHAT'S ON

Here is how Medicine Hat and area is marking Remembrance Day

6h ago

“We’ve tried to stay very progressive, because a lot of non-profits in Medicine Hat rely on us every year for our financial contribution to their programs to keep them going.”

Fandrick said the last four years have been devastating for a number of organizations and they have done their best to help support them.

She added it’s important for the organizations to work together to stay afloat and avoid duplicating services.

Locally, the United Way has been able to move into their own building, which they rent out any unused space to help keep down their operational costs.

Regularly bringing in donations of over $500,000 annually, Fandrick said these funds are audited with accountants and they focus on giving as much of that back to the community as possible.

“Starting in January, our administration cost in Medicine Hat will be between 5 per cent and 6 per cent. That’s crazy good. And we only have 2.5 people,” Fandrick said.

“We try to save as much money as we can so we can give all the money back to the community,” she added.

“That’s the important part. My job is to raise money.”

Fandrick said those looking to help, can also make an impact by volunteering with local organizations.