Thompson Rivers University kicks off its campus-wide United Way campaign on Monday, Oct. 27 under the sponsorship of Dr. Kathleen Scherf, TRU’s newly installed President and Vice-Chancellor.

“It is my pleasure to launch the 2008 Thompson Rivers University United Way Campaign,” said Scherf. “As sponsor, I am proud to lead TRU’s support of the United Way Campaign of the Thompson Nicola Cariboo and to make a strong investment in the area where we all work and live.

“I, for one, came to TRU because something special is happening here, and I want to be part of it “I believe that part of our success as a learner-centred, comprehensive university is due to the caring community of faculty, administrators and support staff that work at our institution.”

Despite the loss of potential donors due to the closure of Weyerhaeuser’s Kamloops sawmill earlier this year and with the forest industry slow-downs affecting Adams Lake Lumber, United Way organizers have set a goal of increasing the contributions from local workers and corporations to $1.5 million this year.

“The TRU community recognizes that when communities support communities everyone benefits,” TRU’s United Way campaign chair, Larry Phillips pointed out. “Our culture of caring will be demonstrated through understanding, engagement and giving.”

Brenda Aynsley, the agency’s Kamloops executive director said they are optimistic about increased contributions from the renewed campaign at Thompson Rivers University with Dr. Scherf instilling new energy to the campaign with her leadership.

“We’re looking for big things from TRU this year, ” Aynsley said.

Contact: Larry Phillips, TRU United Way Campaign Chair, (p) 250.828.5343, (c) 250.319.8418