If you’ve visited the terminals lately and wondered why a lot of staff are in jeans, it’s not a new uniform; it’s part of an exciting fundraising campaign organized by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA).

On September 15th, the United Way of Peel Region launched its 2007 “United We Are Stronger” campaign, revealing their goal of $14 million to be achieved through donations raised through numerous national events. The GTAA has designed an employee campaign determined to surpass last year’s contribution total of $36,700.

With events such as “Denim Days”, a “Lost and Found Silent Auction” and biweekly 50/50 draws, the GTAA hopes to raise $40,000 for the United Way.

This year’s campaign kicked off on September 24th with a bagel breakfast served by members of the Executive Team. The week continued with a 50/50 draw and concluded with the first of many Denim Days. Tally thermometers located throughout the airport will display the running total of the contributions, which currently amounts to $3,000.

GTAA employees can look forward to many exciting activities as the campaign progresses until its October 24th conclusion. From a raffle to win an executive parking space for a week to a paper airplane toss competition and a costume and pumpkin carving contest towards the end of October, employees are showing their sprit of goodwill and community involvement as they work together to reach this year’s target.

“The GTAA is made up of a group of very caring individuals,” says Toby Lennox, GTAA Vice President of Corporate Affairs. “To have such great participation so early on in our campaign really isn’t a surprise. Employees recognize their role in the community in which the airport operates and there’s certainly a need to give back to those that make our business possible. I have no doubt that our target will be met and quite possibly exceeded.”

Since 1967, the United Way has made an impact in the lives of all those it touched through funding programs and services that encourage a sense of caring in the community. The GTAA recognizes this commitment and through its participation hopes to inspire long lasting change; one that strengthens the community and impacts people’s lives. Remember that without you there would be no way!