28 May May 2025 Newsletter
Leave a Legacy of Local Impact with United Way Simcoe Muskoka
Imagine a future where your generosity continues to make a difference—long after today. A planned gift to United Way Simcoe Muskoka lets you turn that vision into reality. By including United Way in your will or estate plans, you help ensure that vulnerable individuals and families in our region receive the support they need for years to come.
Whether it’s funding youth programs, helping people escape poverty, or strengthening local services, your gift becomes a lifeline. And with thoughtful planning, it can also bring tax advantages for you and your loved ones.
This isn’t just a donation—it’s a declaration that you believe in building stronger, healthier communities. United Way will work with you every step of the way to honour your wishes and create the lasting change you care about most.
Your legacy can be one of compassion, hope, and community.
Make it count—where it matters most.

Bradford Hosts Inspiring Anti-Poverty Summit
On May 9th, community leaders, advocates, and partners gathered in Bradford for a powerful Anti-Poverty Summit-an event inspired by United Way Simcoe Muskoka’s ReThink Poverty initiative. The summit highlighted the importance of empathy-driven leadership in tackling poverty and supporting the most vulnerable in our communities.
We’re incredibly proud of our United Way team members who helped bring this event to life. Special thanks to Rosi and Rebekah for their leadership, and to Mayor James LeDuc and Councillors Ben Verkaik and Jonathan Scott for their ongoing commitment to poverty reduction in Bradford. Their efforts are setting a strong example for other municipalities across our region.

The People Behind United Way Simcoe Muskoka

Employee Spotlight: Paige Jakobczak, Major Gifts Relationship Manager
As a Relationship Manager at United Way Simcoe Muskoka, I’m passionate about connecting purpose driven individuals with high impact projects that give people the tools they need to thrive and lead more stable, fulfilling lives.
Fun fact about me: I once drove an ATV in the Sahara Desert, still one of the most awe inspiring things I’ve ever done!
United Way Simcoe Muskoka Hits a Home Run with the Baycats!
We’re proud to once again partner with the Barrie Baycats for the 2025 IBL season! Your support makes a difference both on and off the field. Cheer on your Baycats and support your United Way at the same time by purchasing a 50/50 ticket, with every ticket, you’re helping to tackle local issues like poverty and food insecurity. Buy your 50/50 tickets here
Lakeside Elegance Meets Vintage Vibes: District Chair’s Dock PartyÂ
Join District Chair Jeff Lehman on August 9th and enjoy a lively 1920s-themed garden party at the beautiful Port Cunnington Lodge on Lake of Bays. Guests are encouraged to dress in their best Roaring Twenties attire and enjoy an elegant afternoon featuring live jazz, a live auction, enjoy dinner& wine tasting, and a boat cruise on the SS Bigwin. All proceeds support United Way Simcoe Muskoka and two impactful Muskoka-based programs: the Mobile Youth Wellness Hub and Getting Ahead Across Muskoka. To purchase tickets visit
Ready to Reach New Heights?
Mark your calendars for October 5th and rally your team for the 2025 Everest Challenge at Horseshoe Vally Mountain, benefitting United Way Simcoe Muskoka! Gather your crew, whether it’s 2 people or 10, and take on the thrilling task of climbing 29,092 feet, the height of Mount Everest. That’s 96 climbs up the mountain at Horseshoe Resort, all in support of local programs that create lasting change. Don’t miss out-sign up your team today and be part of something unforgettable!
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