Tuesday 15 September 2026, 02:00pm - 06:00pm
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United Way Haliburton Kawartha Lakes is inviting local businesses, organizations, volunteers, donors and community members to their Open House and Annual Campaign Kickoff on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at their new office in The Gateway Plaza at 55 Mary Street West, Suite 212, Lindsay, ON.
The Open House will run from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a formal welcome and ribbon cutting at 4:30 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the new space, learn more about United Way HKL’s work across Haliburton and Kawartha Lakes, and celebrate the launch of their 2026 annual campaign.
Throughout the afternoon, guests can explore themed rooms highlighting United Way HKL’s history, upcoming events, community impact and the Edwin Binney Community Farm and Education Centre. Farm tours will also be offered, giving visitors the chance to meet the farm manager and staff, see where the produce is grown, learn about local food security and discover ways to get involved.
The kickoff comes as United Way HKL looks ahead to its 60th year in 2027. Since 1986, more than $9 million has been invested in agency programs across the City of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton, supporting local organizations and initiatives that respond to the needs of the community. Across Canada, 90% of Canadians will access a United Way-funded program during their lifetime, demonstrating the importance and broad impact of United Way’s work.
“If you aren’t accessing a United Way-funded program yourself, there’s a very good chance someone you know, a neighbour, a friend or a family member is,” said Shantal Ingram, Co-Executive Director. “That’s what makes this work so important. United Way is here to support the agencies and programs that help our communities every day, and we’re excited to begin this next chapter from our new space.”
Food security is one part of that local impact. Since 2019, the Edwin Binney Community Farm and Education Centre has donated more than 96,000 pounds of fresh produce to local food banks, meal programs and community organizations. Through educational and hands-on opportunities, the farm also helps build food literacy, strengthen connections to where food comes from, and create a stronger local food network.
Guests will also be among the first to see the completed United Way HKL mural in person, created by local artist Takyah Smith. Specially designed for the new office, the mural reflects United Way’s work in the community and their three pillars: All That Kids Can Be, Healthy People and Strong Communities.
The Open House will also mark the recent return of Co-Executive Director Emily Beall following her maternity leave, giving visitors an opportunity to welcome back Emily and the United Way HKL team in their new space.
Refreshments will be provided by Seriously Coffee Services, with snacks provided by The Catering Company Inc.
As United Way HKL launches their 2026 campaign, they continue to bring people together to address local challenges, support community partners and create lasting impact.
All funds raised stay local.
Community members are encouraged to stop by anytime between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to explore the new office, meet the United Way HKL team, learn about upcoming initiatives, take a farm tour, see the new mural and find out what's to come in the 2026 campaign.
About United Way Haliburton Kawartha Lakes
United Way Haliburton Kawartha Lakes works to build strong communities and improve lives across Haliburton and Kawartha Lakes. Through community partnerships, fundraising and investment in local initiatives, United Way HKL works to address local needs and create opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential.
Media Contact
United Way Haliburton Kawartha Lakes
Brooklyn Burdi, Community Outreach Assistant
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
705-878-5081
hkl.unitedway.ca
Location 55 Mary St W, Suite 212, Lindsay ON
Contact Brooklyn Burdi - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
