Meet those being helped These are just a few of the 179,000+ people United Way helps each year. Melanie Worried that asking for help made her seem weak, Melanie struggled alone before finally getting the help she needed. Dez Dez grew up in the foster care system. Her foster family considered showers and hairbrushes a luxury, and some days she was only given one meal. Brenda Brenda moved to Calgary in April of 2013 to look after her elderly parents. As their sole caregiver, her life consisted of doctor appointments and hospital visits. Angelica When Angelica and her husband moved to Canada from Mexico 15 years ago, they were hoping to give their daughter a chance at a good education and a better life. Travis Travis went from experiencing homelessness to studying at university. Now, he’s helping others get their lives on track. Rose Rose battled mental health stress alone until she connected with a local United Way program. Samantha After Samantha moved to Canada, United Way helped her become a community leader. Priscilla Stigma stopped Priscilla from reaching out for help. Now, she works to help others. Mike Mike lived his life on the streets, selling scraps to survive. As he got older, it became harder to continue. Ken Ken had a good education, a good job, and a great family. Then his life changed overnight. Humaira Humaira gave up a lot to be where she is today. But she knows her voice has power now. Diamond Willow Youth Lodge Johnny and Princess, members of the Diamond Willow Youth Lodge’s youth council, explain how this first-of-its-kind gathering space is making a difference. Jayce When Jayce’s kids, Nadine and Chase, were falling behind in reading, she felt like she’d failed them. Bryanna When she faced homelessness at 16, school couldn't be Bryanna's priority. Now, that's changed. Ann For Ann, reaching isolated seniors and ensuring they feel a sense of belonging is vital for her community. Travis Facing mental illness and job uncertainty, Travis received support to succeed. Wendy Wendy learned the importance of giving back at a young age. Now, she’s changing lives. Randy Randy supports Calgary's Indigenous youth as they gain the skills and confidence they need to become leaders. Patricia When Patricia fled abuse, she worried where she and her children could go. Now, they're finding home. Nuhaa When Nuhaa was eight, her family settled in Canada after fleeing war-stricken Syria. She was lonely, shy, and struggling with trauma. North of McKnight Domestic Violence Prevention Collaborative To combat the issue, residents formed the North of McKnight Domestic Violence Prevention Collaborative, a coalition of 18 primarily ethno-cultural and faith-based groups focused on educating and preventing domestic violence in their communities. Michaella At 16, Michaella was on her own, working desperately to avoid homelessness. Learn how United Way of Calgary is connecting individuals like Michaella to successful programs. Kathryn & Teague Teague struggled to keep up with kids his age. Today, his friendships have build his confidence. Jill When Jill's father was diagnosed with dementia, her family was devastated. But they knew there was help. Emily After moving out of her family home, Emily struggled to manage school and life. AJ When AJ was experiencing homelessness, United Way helped him get support. soakleyMeet Those Being Helped03.25.2019
