For 23 years, Providence Care employees have come together to support the United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington. This year, Providence Care’s campaign efforts have reached unprecedented heights. With an initial goal of raising $48,000, the Providence Care United Way fundraising team shattered expectations, raising an incredible $65,000—the highest amount in the campaign’s history. 

“This year’s success feels like a dream come true,” says United Way Fundraising Co-Chair and Communications Officer with Providence Care, Lindsay Kennedy. “The generosity of our staff, students and volunteers has been nothing short of amazing. Knowing our efforts help so many in our community, including some of the people we serve, makes it all worthwhile.” 

Lindsay is one of five United Way Fundraising Co-Chairs this year. Joining her on the team is Operations Coordinator, Finance & Digital Transformation, Stephanie Kennedy, Manager Alexandra Stainrod who is responsible for Providence Care’s Community Outreach team and Psychosocial Rehabilitation Assertive Community Treatment team, Clinical Resource Project Consultant with Providence Care’s Seniors Mental Health community program, Kim Schryburt-Brown, and Resident Assessment Instrument Supervisor at Providence Manor, Ernesto Kho. Led by Vice President of Corporate Services and Executive Director, of Hospice Krista Wells Pearce, the team raised $8,000 through beloved workplace traditions like Portuguese donut sales, gift card raffles and cake raffles hosted at multiple Providence Care sites. 

“We sold 1,000 Portuguese donuts in just a few hours! It was incredible,” shares Lindsay. “These events bring people together for a little fun while contributing to something truly meaningful.” 

Kim works within Providence Care’s community programs which range from Belleville, Napanee, north of Kingston to Sharbot Lake, and Brockville. She says she sees her role working two ways. 

“One part of my role is helping our community staff get involved through payroll deductions and raffles open to everyone because many of the events happen at the organizational sites in Kingston like Providence Care Hospital, Providence Transitional Care Centre and Providence Manor. I also see part of my role as helping people understand that they can support Providence Care’s United Way campaign, and still support organizations in their local community, which might not be Kingston. Next year we hope to grow the community events so that more staff can be involved in the fun,” she explains. 

Many Providence Care employees use payroll deductions to donate to the United Way campaign, with contributions as small as $2 per pay making a big impact. Others volunteer their time, like the like the 16 staff members and two physicians who took on the role of United Way Champions and supported the Co-Chairs this year. 

“Their enthusiasm and support was incredible,” says Stephanie. 

Each campaign co-chair has a unique and personal reason for dedicating their time and energy to the United Way Campaign. For Stephanie, this marks her third year of involvement, driven by a heartfelt desire to create better opportunities for others than she once had for herself. 

“I attended last year’s United Way awards ceremony and heard a young woman share her story. She had a childhood similar to mine, but United Way-funded programs helped her thrive. That moment touched my heart. I didn’t have those supports growing up and they would have been a game changer. It’s why I give back—to make sure those programs exist for others.” 

After 10 years of involvement with the Providence Care United Way Fundraising Campaign, Lindsay says the work took on new meaning when her family utilized the Maltby Centre, a service funded in part by the United Way.  

“I walked into an appointment for my child at the Maltby Centre this year and saw the United Way sign on the door. I couldn’t afford the services out of pocket and they have made a massive difference in my family’s life. That moment gave me a renewed sense of purpose—it reminded me why we do this.” 

Ernesto agrees, saying that he’s passionate about the work the United Way supports locally. 

“The United Way funds programs that support immediate needs at different levels,” he explains. “They help build a stronger community. I believe that by volunteering, I am making a positive impact in our community and a difference in people’s lives.”  

The United Way provides funding to dozens of organizations and services that focus on helping children and families, building healthy communities, and moving people from poverty to possibility. 

The Providence Care United Way campaign is about more than dollars raised; it’s about creating lasting change in the lives of thousands in the region. 

“It feels incredible to know that our fundraising makes a difference,” says Lindsay. “You never know when you or someone you love might need these services, but thanks to the United Way, they’ll always be there.” 

As Providence Care celebrates this record-breaking achievement it demonstrates that the heart of the organization, physicians, staff, and volunteers, continue to embody its mission of caring for the community—one generous act at a time. 

Congratulations to the Providence Care United Way Campaign Co-Chairs, Champions, and everyone who contributed to this year’s campaign success!