CANDACE Ingram has volunteered in many different ways over the years, including answering phones during the Jerry Lewis Telethon as a teenager.
And for the second year running, she is a sponsored executive during the United Way's annual fundraising campaign.
Candace Ingram is a sponsored executive who performs a vital role in United Way's annual fundraising campaign.
"I didn't think I'd like it this much but I do," Ingram said.
She goes to workplaces to help in their fundraising efforts and raise awareness of the United Way.
"We try to help people at workplaces run a campaign and be successful by giving them the tools that we've been offered," she said.
Meanwhile her employer, Canada Border Services Agency, pays her regular salary while she works for the United Way.
And she's not alone.
There are nearly 50 sponsored executives helping with this year's campaign, sponsored by banks, Crown corporations, and others.
"We're all here because we believe in what we're doing," Ingram said.
The United Way recognizes the importance of the contribution made by the employers and employees who step away from their day jobs.
"The role they play cannot be overlooked," said Douglas Maughan, co-chairman of the sponsored executive program.
"Without a doubt, they are the determining factor in our annual campaign," Maughan said.
Ingram thought she could be an effective member of the United Way's drive to raise $16.5 million this year, because the organization has touched her own life.
Her son Aaron was born prematurely. He suffered a brain bleed and weighed only three pounds at birth.
He was diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia (PVLM), a disorder that results in dead spots in the brain.
"When Aaron turned five, he still wasn't walking," Ingram said.
So she turned to the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities, which has provided Aaron with wheelchairs.
"He's getting a new one next week," Ingram said.
Her son is now 16, can speak 10 English words and can also communicate through sign language.
"He's my life. He keeps me grounded," Ingram said, beaming with pride.
Any employer can sponsor an employee or donate money to sponsor someone outside of their organization.
"The employers that have participated have seen the value in it for their employees, both personally and professionally," Maughan said.
michelle.melanson@freepress.mb.ca
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