Annual Centraide campaign is uplifting

The army of umbrellas that moved along Montreal’s streets last Wednesday had nothing to do with the weather forecast. The March of 1,000 Umbrellas is the 20-year tradition that kicks off Montreal's Centraide (United Way) annual campaign. Concordia’s campaign begins October 15.

The Stingers Men’s Hockey team turned out to participate in the event, umbrellas in hand. “We believe that it is important that our student athletes are well-rounded when they graduate, and part of their experience at Concordia is being involved in the community and in societal initiatives,” says Kevin Figsby, coach of the Stingers Hockey team.

Stingers come out to show their support for a worthy cause. | Photo by Concordia University

Last year, Concordia’s Centraide campaign raised more than $190,000. This year, the steering committee, chaired once again by Bram Freedman, VP Institutional Relations and Secretary-General,  is aiming to reach a goal of $200,000. By rallying 23 Concordia Centraide volunteer ambassadors, the committee is able to contact a number of Concordia departments to create buzz and excitement.

Members of Concordia’s community get ready to depart with umbrellas in hand. | Photo by Concordia University

Historically, departments have organized bake sales, karaoke nights and various other events in support of Centraide. If you’re eager to get involved, contact the Concordia Centraide committee (centraide@concordia.ca) with an event idea, and it will help you plan and promote it on the Concordia Centraide webpage.

Pasta Lunches and More!
The pasta lunches are back. Below is a list of pasta lunches, with the closing event to be confirmed in the coming week. Each pasta lunch costs $10 and will be served by lively volunteers. Mark your calendars and save the dates!

Pasta lunch - Sir George Williams Campus
When: Thursday, November 1 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Abe and Harriet Gold Atrium of the Engineering, Computer Science and Visual Arts Integrated Complex

Pasta lunch - Loyola Campus
When: Thursday, November 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Lower level of the atrium in the Richard J. Renaud Science Complex

How can you donate? The easiest way is by clicking on your personalized link that you will receive in your email on October 15. This will automatically enter you into a weekly draw for some great prizes. Starting October 15, raffle tickets will be available from the ambassadors or at a pasta lunch that will enter you into a raffle for much larger prizes, to be won at the closing Centraide pasta lunch.

Related links:
•    March of 1,000 Umbrellas
•    Centraide
•    Concordia’s Centraide Campaign