February 5, 2021
We want to assure you that United Way Centraide Canada is aware of the reported allegations of misconduct at United Way Worldwide, specifically allegations of harassment and retaliation against female employees reporting incidents of harassment as well as the most recent reporting of financial challenges at the organization. The matters at hand have nothing whatsoever to do with United Way Centraide Canada or its members across Canada.
In response, United Way Centraide Canada has been in contact with the Chair of the United Way Worldwide Board of Trustees and the Chair of the United Way USA Board of Trustees to express our significant concern over these allegations, and those of our donors and partners.
At United Way Centraide Canada we are committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment that is free of harassment and violence and that enables all our employees and volunteers to thrive. We expect the same from our United Way and Centraide members in Canada and from all United Way organizations within the global network.
While United Way Centraide Canada is a member of the international network of United Ways, we operate as a fully independent registered Canadian charity with its own leadership, governance, policies and practices. Local United Ways and Centraides in Canada are also independently governed and operate in accordance with comprehensive operating standards as members of United Way Centraide Canada.
The recently reported allegations and financial issues at United Way Worldwide do not affect or involve United Way Centraide Canada or local United Ways and Centraides in Canada in any way and our organizations remain financially strong and independent.
United Way Centraide Canada is deeply committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment that is free from harassment and violence. We value our employees and have in place the internal policies and procedures to protect them. Maintaining a safe work environment and facilitating an inclusive culture are core values of our organization and we work to encourage this culture in all our United Ways and Centraides across the country. Our Canadian network is highly effective and remains focused on supporting and strengthening local communities as our country deals with the impacts of the pandemic.
The Board of Trustees at United Way Worldwide have released a statement related to the findings from their internal investigation. We will continue to closely monitor this issue, the steps they take to learn from this investigation and the plans they put in place to ensure a strong and healthy workplace.
We thank you for your continued partnership and support of the mission of United Way Centraide Canada.
Yuri Fulmer Dan Clement
Board Chair President & CEO
