On February 25, 1985 the incorporation and first meeting of the United Way of the Fraser Valley took place. Under the guidance of Walter Paetkau, UWFV made total contributions of $22,769 to 11 member agencies and 32 other programs in its first year. Since then, we have evolved into a strong community presence. In 2009, our workplace campaign goal was $700,000. We achieved over $717,000, the fourth consecutive year of growth. The success of our 2009 campaign will assist us in direct funding of 27 Member Agencies and nine programs, plus allow us to continue to provide administrative or other supports for our initiatives. Over the last 25 years we have raised and put to work in our community over $10 million. Since 2005, the United Way of the Fraser Valley has been working with both member and non-member agencies across the Fraser Valley to provide programs and services that are addressing the community-identified priorities: poverty reduction, homelessness and affordable housing, and ensuring children ages 0 to 6 succeed. UWFV still continues to fund our core mandate - Essential Social Services, programs Canadians refer to as our social safety net. Providing more than a financial support, the United Way of the Fraser Valley is a collaborative partner and invests time, influence and knowledge where it is needed. The primary goal is to mobilize the community's resources to create lasting and meaningful change. A leader in collaborative community building, the United Way of the Fraser Valley has created many unique relationships and partnerships; Success by Six, Fraser Valley Housing Network, Vibrant Abbotsford and Emergency Transportation Assistance Program are just a few examples. more... See more text