The University of Windsor and the United Way make a great pair, provost Douglas Kneale said Friday before a gathering of dozens of staff, faculty, and students to launch the charity’s 2017 campus fundraising campaign.

Dr. Kneale said the University can add to its record of leadership in research and education: “Today, we can be leaders in service by supporting the United Way.”

Campaign officials raised the United Way banner on a flagpole outside Chrysler Hall Tower, while volunteers and donors heard from speakers about the community benefits of contributing to the cause.

“You don’t get to see the impact that your donations make,” said Joyce Zuk, executive director of Family Services Windsor-Essex. “But I do, every day.”

UWindsor employees may opt to contribute to United Way through payroll deduction. The campaign will hold a prize draw for faculty and staff who donate by month’s end.

Stephanie Parent, an audio-visual technician in media and educational technologies, won a free vacation day in a draw for those present at Friday’s event.