The spirit of giving reached new heights during this year’s United Way fundraising campaign at the GTAA. Although economic times are tough, GTAA employees, passengers and other airport staff found a way to dig deep this year and have exceeded all expectations.

Through employee donations and pledges, events such as an Airplane Pull, Lost and Found Silent Auction, and Paper Airplane Toss, $132,317 was raised for United Way of Peel Region. That is 264 per cent of this year’s goal of $50,000.

The GTAA wishes to extend a very special thanks to everyone for their tremendous generosity during this year’s campaign. Your donations will go a long way in supporting the many people in our community who rely on agencies such as the United Way. An especially big thank you also goes out to all the volunteers who gave their time and energy and assisted with the fundraising events.

This year was extra special as the GTAA received a little help—this year’s fundraising activities included other employees from the airport community as well as travellers throughToronto Pearson.

Employees from various companies operating at Toronto Pearson—including Air Canada, American Airlines, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), Landmark Aviation, and Peel Regional Police—came together in the spirit of friendly competition during the Airplane Pull to raise money for the United Way. A great effort was put forth by all teams and a big thank you is extended to Air Canada for supplying not only a team, but also the aircraft and ground crew support.

The Airplane Pull was just one of many events in support of the GTAA’s United Way campaign, and ran from October 2 to November 28. Our passengers also generously contributed through the Putt, Putt, and Away contest. The GTAA thanks Air Canada and WestJet for their support with that event.

Since 1967, the United Way has touched many lives by funding programs and services that encourage a sense of caring in the community. The GTAA recognizes this commitment and, through its participation, hopes to inspire long lasting change that strengthens the community and impacts people’s lives. Remember that without you there would be no way.