Celebrating International Women’s Day
This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating inspiring women who have shared with us how her life has been transformed by United Way — and how they’re inspiring other women in turn.
Valentina
After years of emotional manipulation and sexual and physical violence, Valentina found the strength to leave her partner. Unbeknownst to her, the physical violence she’d endured had left her with debilitating and scary brain trauma. Imagine living with undiagnosed brain injuries for years.
Now, Valentina is an advocate for herself and for others who might be struggling in silence. She is determined to change how society treats domestic violence survivors and is educating front-line workers on the importance of recognizing the symptoms of traumatic brain injuries and providing appropriate support.
Thank you for sharing your story and being an inspiration for so many, Valentina.
Gina
Meet Gina, a United Way BC iVolunteer participant in Prince George.
“I volunteer because I have a strong passion for helping others, and I believe that by volunteering, I can make a positive impact on my community while also gaining valuable experience and skills along the way.”
Gina volunteers to assist with a number of programs at the Prince George Council of Seniors, an iVolunteer agency partner, including Better at Home and Meals on Wheels.
“Gina jumps in and helps whenever asked. She will show up at a special event, immediately jump in and get things done,” says Volunteer Coordinator, Lisa Traicoff. “Her open and accepting demeanour makes seniors feel listened to and validated. We are very grateful she chose to spend time with the Prince George Council of Seniors. Our community is enriched by Gina’s generous heart.”
Merry
Meet Merry, a participant in United Way BC’s Future Leaders Program, designed to help young people build confidence through work experience to create their own paths to success as adults.
“When I first came to the program, I struggled with my confidence, especially with my English and my ability to fit in. I often felt unsure of myself and overwhelmed by the new challenges,” Merry says. “But through United Way BC’s Future Leaders program, I found a place where I was welcomed, supported, and surrounded by people who truly believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself.”
Taking part in Future Leaders helped Merry prepare for a summer internship with KPMG and receive four scholarships (!) including a full ride at Simon Fraser University. She plans to become a psychologist focusing on mental wellness for youth and newcomers.
Jan
We are proud to know Jan, a remarkable 77-year-old who has spent the past 23 years creating a sanctuary of self-sufficiency.
Her garden in Lillooet BC, a testament to hard work and dedication, provides most of the food she eats.
As years have gone by, Jan’s health and mobility have made it difficult to manage the expansive garden she relies on.
With help from United Way BC Better at Home program, Jan continues to thrive in her own home (and garden!).
“My yard care volunteer is caring, capable, and enthusiastic. She makes my outdoor pathways safer to walk every time she drops by and saves me so much time. This program makes me optimistic that I’ll have more years ahead of me to stay and live in my home independently.”
It is because of individuals like Jan that United Way BC is passionate about supporting older adults age in place. The Better at Home program was created to help seniors with non-medical, day-to-day tasks, enabling them to maintain their independence within the comfort of their homes while staying closely connected to their communities.
Fern
Fern, a mother of five, leveraged United Way BC support during one of the most challenging times for her family.
In Summer 2023, Fern moved to a family cottage in North Shuswap. While renovating, they camped in the backyard. Their adventure turned into a nightmare when the Bush Creek wildfire hit.
“I could see the fire from my house. The smoke was terrible, and everything was covered in ash,” Fern recalls.
Passionate about growing food and helping others, Fern quickly got involved in helping her community through the Eagle Valley Community Support Society. United Way BC’s Wildfire Recovery Fund helped organizations like Eagle Valley set up emergency food access.
“When people come together and donate, it makes it possible to survive. I hope that everyone in my community can have their needs met after this wildfire. Thanks to United Way BC Wildfire Recovery Fund, there’s hope for that.”
Deborah
Deborah uses United Way BC funds to bolster food security at St. John Gualbert Church in Port McNeill.
“We’re so grateful for the funding,” Deborah says. “We’re able to support the free meal program at the Church and build community garden boxes. The food we grow is used in the program and in the Loaves & Fishes’ food market.”
As a Directory on the board, Deborah oversees many programs at the church, including a secondhand bookstore, the community garden, seniors exercise programs, music programs, Pilates classes, and even a kids’ Snap Dragon program.