Pulling for Winnipeg

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The Manitoba Youth Network team pulls together in support of our community. (DUSTIN GATZ / UNITED WAY)

Memorable moments on Memorial Boulevard Friday afternoon.

Almost 250 people gathered to watch representatives from all three levels of government compete in a bus pull—a kickoff to their workplace campaigns.

The entire West side of Memorial in front of the Manitoba Legislature was shut down as a pull zone and the city of Winnipeg lent two buses to the event. They even changed the route tickers to display "United Way Government Division Bus Pull."

I don’t know if it was the gorgeous weather, or the community spirit that Winnipeggers never fail to let shine, but the whole affair took on a street festival vibe.

Cheerleading gorillas roamed through the gathering crowds as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) pull team, Pirates of the CRAibbean, sported Jack Sparrow inspired attire. And 17 Wing / CFB Winnipeg even exchanged their camos for Hawaiian shirts.

The Provincial All Charities Campaign team, in hard hats and fluorescent vests, made it clear they were safe and serious about building a better community, and I couldn’t even count the number of custom tees.

It was so exciting to see so many members of the public service pulling together in support of our community.

Paul Vogt represented the Provincial All Charities Campaign and Grant Nordman, City Councillor St. Charles Ward, represented the City of Winnipeg’s Employees’ Retirees’ Charitable Fund.

Commissioner Bill Baker, the national chair for the Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign was even on hand to bring greetings from Ottawa.

I want to extend our sincere appreciation to the City of Winnipeg, the Province of Manitoba and the Federal Government. Not only did they pull off an incredibly entertaining, and inspiring event, but they’ve pulled out all the stops to support our community through United Way.

I have watched as all three levels of Government have continuously made increasing investments in many different forms. Public servants in our city raised over $1.1M last year, volunteered countless hours of time, and inspired thousands of people to go above and beyond to make this city great for everyone who lives here. Every year, the community spirit in this group grows.

Pull a plane, pull a bus, pull together and keep up the momentum, Winnipeg. This is exactly how we create opportunities for a better life for everyone!

- Jeff Zabudsky